Recently, EU Training hosted a free 2017 EPSO CAST webcast to discuss the competition’s eligibility requirements, its structure, the individual tests to be undertaken, as well as effective preparation strategies. As part of this event, many useful questions were posed by the participants, so we thought we’d share the answers to these with you as well below.

2017 EPSO CAST Q&A Session

Is the exam also open to EU agencies?

EU agencies, as a main rule, recruit directly and most often they hire temporary agents. At the same time, contract agents from CAST exams can also be hired by agencies, but that's quite a limited option.

I applied for the CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR CONTRACT STAFF FGIV IN GENERALIST PROFILES - Ref. COM/3/2013/GFIV. Do I have to apply for this too?

Yes, if you applied for a CAST exam a few years ago, this database and exam constitutes a new call and you should apply and fill in the data accordingly.

Will I be able to work in EC Representation in my country?

Theoretically yes as EU representations can also hire from the CAST list. Keep in mind, however, that the exams are demand driven so a specific request must come from your country's representation to fill in a position, and then you can be invited to sit the selection exam.

I have already passed the numerical and verbal test for a FGIV position in the past. Do I need to do that test again?

Yes, since this constitutes a new exam, earlier results and exams are not relevant for this call.

Does the competency test take place together with the reasoning tests or after each other on the same day or on different days?

This is not yet known, but based on past experience, it will likely take place on the same day as it is a computer based test and since you're already in the exam center, you can take all tests at the same time.

Regarding the FG IV Political affairs, there are two different options: 1) Political Matters Advisers. 2) Policy Development and Management, Programme Management, Project Development. Do you have any idea about the main difference between these two profiles?

It's worth checking the Notice of Competition as to what is included in each profile. The way we understand it, political matters would be closer to party politics, having worked in a minister's or elected representative's cabinet (private office), whereas policy is sectoral such as environmental policy, energy, consumer protection or other.

How long will be the whole selection procedure and recruitment procedure take?

As the system is demand-driven, it changes the timeline. This means that you need to register in the database, but the invitation to sit an exam can be anything between a few months to a year or two. It all depends on an EU institution or body having a specific recruitment need, and then extending an invitation to dozens of candidates to sit the selection tests.

So this competition would not allow me to work in an EU Delegation around the world ? (enlargement, neighbourhood, etc?)

Yes, it could. EU delegations can also invite you to sit a selection exam in view of employment in their midst.

I saw somewhere that you need to restate your interest in the position every 6 months. How does this work?

If you filled out your CV on your EPSO profile, it's still worth logging back and updating it every 6 months and making sure the system logs your most recent visit date. If you've already passed a verbal, numerical or abstract reasoning test as part of this competition, but you were eventually not selected, you need to restate your interest every 6 months so you can get invited to an interview.

If I am applying for two different profiles (same function groups) and pass once the reasoning tests, do I have to take the reasoning tests again for the second profile?

No, as long as you passed the selection tests for one profile in a given function group, you don't need to pass it for another profile in the same function group.

What happened to the generalist AD5 competition?

his competition is going to be announced soon, most likely in March or April 2017.

Can you be on multiple reserve lists at once?

Yes, absolutely - that increases your chances of employment.

I’m a 34 years old lawyer, am I too old for institutions?

Absolutely not, actually the average age of entry level (AD5) recruits is around 32 years.

Why on EU Training numerical practice tests are only in 3 languages?

This is due to our limited resources, and also to the fact that numerical reasoning is less dependent on languages as the main points are shown in the table/chart, unlike in the case of verbal reasoning where the text and the answer options are the most important pieces of information.

I currently work as interimer in the EC REP. There are two vacant CAST positions in my REP. Will I be able to apply for this position in REP if I succeed to pass this CAST competition?

Unfortunately, not in the framework of this particular CAST Exam. There could be another contract agent system in place soon (currently being finalized by the Commission's HR services) where the selection is a bit quicker. In this CAST system, only if the REP's HR manager initiates recruitment can they choose your name to be invited, among others, to sit the selection test. So in short, they need to pick you and not the other way around.

So they wouldn't exclude you if you apply for several of them simultaneously?

As long as you meet the formal application criteria and experience for each field, you can apply to multiple ones. Make sure, however, to check this on EPSO's application page as they might change or limit this policy in the future.

When you apply for a function group do you automatically get to the test as the permanent competitions?

Unfortunately, no. This is a major change from the 'classic' competitions for permanent official posts as filling in the application doesn't directly lead to you being invited to the selection tests. On the other hand, being listed in the database is a prerequisite for invitation so by all means sign up.

I'm 44 political scientists, am I too old to apply?

Absolutely not. There is no upper age limit for application, and the institutions are equal opportunity employers.

Which is the link in order to apply?

You can gain access to the CAST competitions via the jobs section of the EPSO website. Please see the differnt profile links below:

• Finance
• ​Project Management
• Secretaries/Clerks
• Administration/HR
• Communication
• Political Affairs / EU Policies
• Law
• Information and Communication Technology

Please see ANNEX I of the Notice of Competition for specific information about the typical duties to be performed per profile.

Do we have to pass the numerical, verbal and abstract reasoning tests? Or just one of the three?

You need to pass all three selection tests, and the competency test as well. Please refer to the official Notice of Competition for pass marks and specifics.

Is this process related to the EUIPO?

No, the CAST permanent is independent of the EUIPO exams.

According to the Notice of Competition, there will be a competency test for the profile you have applied. Do you have any material to prepare for this?

Yes, we at EU Training offer preparation tests with detailed explanations for all CAST competency tests. Click here to view the packages.

Should the cover letter be different for each application?

Ideally, yes, it should be customised.

Will EU Training offer question packages for the profile Political Affairs/EU Policies?

Yes. These question packages have now been loaded to the website and can be found here.

Do existing contract agents have to go through this selection procedure for renewals of their contracts?

Formally speaking, it's not the renewal of their contract but a new contract. You need to pass this procedure to qualify for contract agent posts that are being filled in the future. Note that there will likely be exceptions from this procedure when the Commission agrees on the new rules for certain contract agent recruitment, but those rules are not yet agreed or in place.

What is the difference between EPSO account and EU CV Online?

EU CV is most likely going to be merged into EPSO profile or discontinued.

Is it possible to jump from one CAST to another once you're working in it? Does it require new EPSO? What's the average age of successful applicants? Do 20 somethings get in as easily as more experienced people?

Once you are hired for a post, it means you've passed the selection tests which, according to the rules, remain valid for years. If there is another post to which you were invited, you don't need to re-sit the selection tests (only the competency test) and once you're selected, you can transit into that job. As for the average age, it's around 32 but a lot depends on your professional background, language knowledge, exam results and generally how well your profile matches the required skills for the job.

For how long will the EC database (myeucvonline) and this one coexist?

Most likely it will be discontinued or somehow merged with this new system.

Can you apply for CAST and AD competitions at the same time?

Yes, absolutely, these two are not related in any way.

Can we apply to EU Delegations with this CAST?

Yes, though you don't formally "apply": you are in the database, and you are shortlisted as a suitable candidate and asked to sit the selection tests.

Do existing contract agents have to go through this selection procedure for renewals of their contracts?

Yes, though please see the answer above: it's not to "renew" your contract but rather to be hired for a specific post (which might as well be your current one).

Do you apply only for the profile or you have to choose which FG yourself as well?

You need to choose FG and profile too, but you can choose multiple ones.

What is the difference between applying for CAST and for say AD5?

CAST is a database from which candidates are shortlisted/pre-selected on a "need" basis, after which you pass a selection test, interview and can be hired for a fixed duration contract. AD5 is a competition in which you have exams that everyone who applies for this competition can and needs to pass. AD5 leads to permanent contracts, as opposed to temporary ones.

I don't see a linguist/translator profile here, while there is one for the CAST2013. Perhaps there isn't one available in CAST2017 and I should apply through CAST2013? Or is it hidden under e.g. the Communications profile?

You're right, there is no translator/interpreter option this time. The 2013 is no longer taking applications, so you most probably need to wait for the next EPSO AD competition for translators and/or interpreters which are usually announced in the summer.

What is the delay between your invitation to a pre-selection test and the actual test?

For the CAST, the "pre-selection" is done by the Commission or EU institution's unit in need of hiring staff. Once they "pre-select" you as a candidate, you're invited to sit the abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning tests, along  with the competency test. If you pass those successfully, you're invited to an interview and can be offered a contract. For AD5, all applicants are invited to sit the exams.

What is the difference between pre-selection tests for CAST competition and the pre-selection tests for AD's?

The tests themselves are the same, though for AD exams EPSO usually includes a Situational Judgment Test (SJT) as well, and sometimes an e-tray exercise (though most recently that was required only for those who passed the pre-selection tests).

Is it easier for a contractor to become a permanent official than for somebody that has never worked in an EU institution?

Generally, it is not easier as everybody must pass an EPSO competition to get a permanent job. There is one exception to this rule, and that is the internal competitions which are usually organized every 4-5 years for temporary agents only (ie those who are working in the institutions).

How much time is there to study after receiving the invitation to take the exam?

It's not yet known but our estimate would be that they give you at least 3-4 weeks notice before the exam date.

If I understood well, the first step to apply for CAST is to put your CV in the EPSO account database, isn't it?

Yes, that's correct.

Are non-EU citizens eligible to be selected?

No, they are not eligible. Non-EU citizens, can work in delegations as local agents.

Should you apply in english to maximise your chances even though it's not your  language 1?

The Notice of Competitions states that you must fill in your application form in your chosen Language 2, that is, English, French or German. If you're comfortable enough to choose English or French, that can increase your chances somewhat.

Can we write the CV in English and the cover letter in French, or would it be better to have them in the same language?

You may do so but it's probably a better idea to be consistent about it and use the same language.

In the past, there was a CAST for working in delegations, once passed the test and in the reserve list, you could apply for vacancies for posts in delegations now. Are posts in delegations again only for those that passed the exam millions of years ago?

No, delegations can hire through the EEAS, diplomatic channels, get seconded officials from Commission DGs, and they can also make use of this CAST exam to hire contract staff.

So if I claim to speak some language I need some proof for that? Is it really necessary?

Usually the exams will be enough proof of you speaking a given language, especially the interview part. EU institutions usually don't require a formal language exam like DELF, DELE, Cambridge English or other.

What is the impact of your nationality in the selection process? Are there formal quotas that EU agencies use, or is this only a factor in the end of the selection process (e.g. between similarly qualified candidates)?

The latter: no formal quota at all, but if there are highly comparable candidates, the existing proportions among EU citizens in the given EU institution or directorate might indeed play a role.

I have gotten a message saying that my application information for previous CAST are going to be migrated to this CAST. Should I be considered to be registered, then?

If you indeed get confirmation, then you're likely going to be considered as registered, but you should be able to check the data that was migrated and you should be able to edit and update it too.

“Which salary step will you be at?” What does this mean in the EU salary calculator? Does EPSO include EU agencies or just EU institutions?

Salary step is comparable to temporary agents, though for contract staff it's somewhat lower. We'll look into integrating this into our salary calculator. EPSO runs the current CAST system and it's not limited to EU institutions: agencies can also hire through this process.

Supposing I am hired as a CAST, can I try a post as a fonctionnaire, during the time I am working for the institutions?

See answer above re: transiting from CAST to permanent official.

Traineeships are considered as work experience for the eligibility assessment?

Usually, traineeships are not considered as work experience if they happened before you obtained your diploma, even if it was paid.

Is it possible to take part in the concours for permanent positions while engaged with CAST?

Yes, absolutely.

Is better to apply for the highest FG or it's too competitive and you have better chance with the lower FG?

Hard to tell as it's unknown how many candidates apply for either of these. What's important though is to only apply to those profiles or FGs that you have the formal qualifications for.

Does your degree have to match the category (e.g. Communication) or as long as you have any degree, it's fine enough ?

It depends on the Notice of Competition, but if they require you to have a 'relevant' degree, then it must be in the field of the profile (though the diploma's title may not be the same as the profile as long as its contents are matching the formal requirements). If the Notice only requires a degree giving access to post-secondary education, it can be in any field as long as it was issued by an accredited institution.

I have a master's degree, so I can apply for FG IV.  If I enroll also for FG III, would that be seen as a minor as I am "overqualified"?

Not necessarily, but not sure it makes practical sense.

I am working in my current position for 3 years, if I understand correctly the new procedure I may not be renewed in my current position even if I passed the test?

Correct, see detailed explanations above.

In politics what would be good to read for the competency test?

Understanding how EU institutions work (see books by John Harper Publishing), look at "legislative summaries" on the Commission's website, check annual reports of the Commission or various DGs, look at policy and other research papers published by the EPC, CEPS, Bruegel and other think tanks. Also check out these free EU Courses.

Do you provide preparation for Competency Test at EU Training?

Yes, absolutely - click here to view the various CAST profiles and our practice resources for each.

Does the content of the competency test depend on the different position profile (out of the 8) or on the DG/Agency that invites you for a test? How do we know what to prepare/read?

The former: it depends on the profile, not the DG/agency seeking to hire. You'll see from the sample and other questions the kind of materials that are covered, but based on the Notice of Competition's detailed description you can also look at Annual reports of related DGs, and check books/publications on the given subject on EU websites and Amazon.

Is there not anymore Situational Judgement Test part?

Not in the framework of these CAST exams.

Does your score matter to go further? Do you need to be in the top x candidates?

Not in this case as you're only competing with those candidates that were shortlisted by the hiring unit to be invited to the tests. So once you pass with the indicated pass marks, you can go to the next stage.

Does it matter how well I pass the exams? What if I barely pass those and it stays for 10 years? Will the candidates with best scores be invited for interviews?

See answer above: it's a yes/no result, the score is not relevant as long as you managed to go above the pass mark.

If you pass with a low result, can you retake the tests?

If low result means you passed but barely, it doesn't matter: see answer above.

Can you still sit AD and AST tests if you fail a CAST exam?

You can sit all of these in parallel, there is no limitation.

How do we prepare for the Competency exams?

These are multiple choice tests and EU Training offers you preparation tests for all CAST profiles. Click here to view them.

In the past I already succeeded the first part of the selection (verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning), so if I understand exactly, they should still be valid?

Unfortunately, that's not the case. If you passed abstract, verbal or numerical tests successfully in the past, it does not get carried over to these exams. Only if you passed such tests in the framework of this CAST competition can you retain those in your profile, and only for recruitment in this process, but not other EPSO competitions.

I have passed the numerical and verbal test for FGIV in 2007. (The result came out in 2008). Are these the same test as the reasoning test and is my success on these still valid?

The tests are more or less the same style as the ones you'd passed, but your results cannot be migrated into this CAST system: you'll need to pass those tests again.

Are reasoning tests and competency test not taken on the same day?

They are most probably going to be on the same day.

CAST - is it an AD profile?

No, CAST is not related to Administrators (AD), it's an independent system for contract (fix-term) jobs, not permanent positions.

If you pass everything, do you need to sit and wait for a job offer or you have to be proactive and contact EU Staff directly to off your candidacy?

In this case, you're invited to sit an exam when there is a specific vacancy or hiring need so this avoids the uncertainty at the end of the process.

What language will the recruitment test be in? Strictly language 2?

Yes, according to the Notice of Competition, it will be in language 2.

How long is it a good preparation?

It's very personal but we generally recommend 4-6 weeks, with practice 3x a week for 30-45 minutes.

If you are offered a job through CAST, how long can you keep your position?

The contract's duration can vary but most commonly it's 3 years, renewable for an additional 2.

So, even  Lawyer Linguist and CAST are independent and I can apply for both?

Yes, that's correct.

So I can register my CV online only in a year or a year and a half?

You can register it already, and we suggest you check back every 6 months to make sure it's up to date and that recruiters or HR officers see you're still interested.

Do your packages expire? Or if i buy a package will I be able to use it for as long as I want?

No, your practice packages do not expire. In fact you can even retake old tests!

Where do the tests take place?

In exam centers that are located in each of the EU capitals, and in some cases you can even take tests outside Europe at designated test centers.

Will the competency exams be adapted depending on the job offer? Law is very broad... they should test different things depending on the position...

The competency tests depend on the Function Group and profile, not the given position. On the other hand, the interview is job specific.

When will be the 2017 edition of the Ultimate EU Test Book be out?

There will be no 2017 edition, but the 2016 edition is fully up to date and valid.

Are the verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning tests similar to those for the administrators' competition?

Yes, the level of difficulty might differ but in terms of style, they are identical.

If I already have the package for the administrators, should I also get the one for the CAST?

For the abstract, verbal and numerical reasoning, the Administrator tests should be fine for your preparation. For the competency tests, however, we suggest you check out the CAST-related ones, depending on your profile. Click here to view these.

Is traineeship considered as work experience?

See above: only if it happened after you received your degree/diploma, and usually it's required to be paid otherwise it's not counted.

Few years ago I passed the tests for reasoning but i didn't succeed in one part of the assessment centre. Is the first part still valid?

Unfortunately, no, you'll need to retake those tests too.