Since 2023, EPSO started using a new selection process which is a one-phase competition. The goal is to reduce the competition cycle to six months, from opening applications to the reserve list being published.
The timeline for EPSO competitions since the overhaul is as follows:
- EPSO releases the Notice of Competition (NoC)
- Applications must be submitted by a deadline, then supporting documents at a later date
- EPSO CBT | Reasoning skills tests that are pass/fail, and don't count towards the overall score
- Generalists only (AD5)
- EU Knowledge Test (EUK) for generalist competitions
- Digital Skills Test
- Specialists only (various grades from AD6+)
- Field-related Multiple-Choice Questionnaire (MCQ) for specialist competitions
- Case Study | assesses written communication skills and only corrected for those with the highest scores
- Eligibility checks
- Reserve List from which EU institutions can recruit for their specific needs
Each competition has a ‘Request for Review’ window where candidates have the option to request a review of the final score they were given. Only one review per candidate, per competition can be submitted.
The Assessment Centre will no longer be a part of the process. The assessment of general competencies will now happen during the recruitment phase, and it is up to the recruitment services of the EU institutions how they will test those competencies.
Another novelty is the self-assessment tool, Experience Assessment Survey Instrument (EASI). This is not mandatory, just a helpful survey to help candidates self-assess eligibility for a competition. The link to a customised EASI form for each competition can be found on the competition's profile page on the EPSO website.
Related links:
Check your eligibility: new EPSO tool | EU Knowledge Test E-Learning | EPSO CBT Online Training Sessions