AD5 competition

Open to any academic background, this Graduate Administrator (AD5) exam paves the way to challenging and meaningful roles across EU administration, policy-making and public service. 

Why the EPSO AD5 competition matters

At the AD5 level, successful candidates join the EU civil service as generalist administrators, contributing to policy development, implementation, analysis and operational execution across a variety of fields — law, economy, environment, communication, public affairs, and more. 

As EPSO has not opened this competition since 2019, the AD5 exam remains one of the most competitive and sought-after pathways to an EU career.

With the upcoming competition expected in early 2026, this is the perfect time to start your preparation and increase your chances to join the EU institutions.

What the AD5 selection process includes

The AD5 competition assesses both your reasoning skills, your knowledge of the European Union and your digital skills. Typical stages include:

• Reasoning tests: verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning — to evaluate your analytical and cognitive abilities. 

• EU Knowledge test (MCQ): a multiple-choice test covering the EU institutions, policies, history and functioning — verifying your awareness of EU matters.

• Written test (EUFTE: Free Text Essay on EU matters): assessing your ability to draft accurate and well-structured documents, adapt to professional context and present ideas clearly in writing.

• Digital skills test: a MCQ test designed to measure your digital literacy and practical abilities. 

Who can apply

The competition is open to graduates holding at least a bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years university studies), with EU citizenship. No previous professional experience is required at AD5 level, making this competition ideal for recent graduates. 

Language skills are also a must: proficiency in one of the 24 official EU languages, plus a good level in a second EU language.

How to prepare — and why choose ORSEU

Given the competitiveness of the EPSO AD5 competition and the wide range of knowledge tested, early and thorough preparation is key. That is where we come in.

At ORSEU Concours, we offer a complete training pathway:

• Online courses covering reasoning tests, EU knowledge, written test preparation, all specifically designed for AD5 applicants.
• Practice tests that mimic real EPSO exams: timed, with embedded calculator and notepad, with detailed corrections, to build familiarity and confidence. 
• Structured methodology and expert guidance — helping you master test techniques, manage time effectively, and understand what EPSO evaluators expect. 

Whether you are just starting your EU-career journey or want to maximise your score, our resources aim to make you fully ready to succeed.

Your next step

Don’t wait until the official notice: begin your EPSO AD5 preparation today. With the next competition expected soon, early training will give you a strong advantage and boost your chances to join the EU civil service.