The EPSO AD5 Generalist competition (EPSO/AD/427/26) is the main entry-level pathway into the EU institutions as an Administrator. With 1,490 places on the reserve list and thousands of applicants, preparation is everything. This guide covers the complete exam structure and how to approach it.
Competition Overview
AD5 is the entry grade for university graduates. Unlike specialist competitions (AD7), no prior work experience is required — just a completed university degree. Successful candidates join directorates across all EU institutions, working on policy, legislation, programme management, and more.
Exam Format: Five Tests
All tests are remote-proctored (taken from home). The five components are:
| Test | Format | Time | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | MCQ | 35 min | 10/20 |
| Numerical + Abstract Reasoning | MCQ | 30 min | 10/20 |
| EU Knowledge | 30 MCQ | 40 min | 15/30 |
| Digital Skills | 40 MCQ | 30 min | 20/40 |
| EUFTE (Essay) | Free text | 40 min | 5/10 |
Scoring and Ranking
You must pass every test individually. Numerical and Abstract reasoning are pass/fail — they don't count toward your ranking score.
Preliminary ranking weights:
- Verbal Reasoning: 40%
- EU Knowledge: 30%
- Digital Skills: 30%
Final ranking weights (after EUFTE):
- Verbal Reasoning: 35%
- EU Knowledge: 25%
- Digital Skills: 25%
- EUFTE Essay: 15%
Study Strategy
With five different test types, prioritise based on weight and difficulty:
- EU Knowledge (30 MCQ) — the most study-intensive test. EPSO published 13 official reference documents totalling 1,000+ pages. Focus on institutions, treaties, and current priorities.
- Digital Skills (40 MCQ) — based on DigComp 2.2. Covers cybersecurity, file formats, copyright, and digital communication. Many questions are practical common sense, but some require specific knowledge.
- Verbal Reasoning — practice is more effective than study. Do timed practice tests to build speed and accuracy.
- EUFTE Essay — practise writing structured arguments in your Language 2 under time pressure.
- Numerical & Abstract — pass/fail only. Don't over-invest, but ensure you can clear the threshold.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 10 March 2026
- Supporting documents: 7 October 2026
- Reserve list: 1,490 candidates
Official Reference
The Notice of Competition is published in the Official Journal: EUR-Lex OJ C/2026/711. The 13 study documents are available on the EU Publications portal.