Working as Contract Agent (CAST) in EU institutions
The CAST (Contract Agents Selection Tool) procedure enables the institutions, bodies and agencies of the European Union to build a pool of candidates who may be recruited as contract agents. Candidates can register for different profiles and, when a recruitment need matches their profile, may be shortlisted and invited to take part in the different stages of the selection process.
The procedure may include verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning tests. Preparing in advance is recommended so that you are ready if and when you are invited to take the tests.
Preparing for the CAST selection tests
When shortlisted, candidates may be invited to take tests designed to assess their reasoning abilities. Depending on the profile and the applicable selection procedure, these may include verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning tests.
It is advisable to start preparing before receiving an invitation to take the tests. You may be shortlisted when your profile matches the needs of a recruiting service, and the time available to prepare may then be limited. By preparing in advance, you can learn the methodology for each type of test, practise progressively and develop your ability to answer questions effectively within a limited time.
Effective preparation generally involves three stages:
- learning the methodology,
- practising with explained answers,
- training under timed conditions.
→ Discover our preparation tools for the CAST selection tests
How does the CAST selection procedure work?
The CAST selection procedure enables the EU institutions and agencies to identify candidates who match their recruitment needs. The process generally involves several stages: registering for the procedure, possible shortlisting, an invitation to take the selection tests and, depending on the position, additional tests and/or an interview.
To take part in the CAST procedure, you must create or update your candidate profile and register for the profiles for which you meet the eligibility requirements. Your application is then included in a database that can be consulted by recruiting services when they are looking for suitable candidates.
It is important to keep your profile up to date and to check regularly the official information relating to the procedures for which you have registered.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to take selection tests. These may include verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning tests, as well as other assessments or an interview, depending on the position concerned.
The exact selection arrangements depend on the specific procedure and recruitment process. You should therefore always consult the official information applicable to your profile.
Preparing for a CAST selection procedure?
Start preparing now to master the methodology behind the reasoning tests and build your skills progressively before you receive a possible invitation.
→ Discover our preparation tools for the CAST selection tests
Still unsure which preparation option to choose?
Discover in our video the different solutions offered by ORSEU Concours to prepare for the three reasoning tests of the AD5 2026 competition.
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