The EPSO AD5 Graduates competition is the primary entry point for university graduates seeking a permanent career in the EU institutions. Each year, EPSO runs one or more generalist competitions at the AD5 level, attracting tens of thousands of applicants from across all 27 EU member states.
What is the AD5 Graduates Competition?
The AD5 competition is designed for candidates with a university degree (at least three years of study) in any discipline. Unlike specialist competitions, no prior work experience is required. This makes it the ideal pathway for recent graduates, career changers, or anyone seeking to start a career in EU policy-making, administration, or management.
Successful candidates are placed on a reserve list from which all EU institutions and agencies can recruit. The reserve list is typically valid for one to three years, and positions are available across Brussels, Luxembourg, and agency locations throughout Europe.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the AD5 Graduates competition, you must be a citizen of an EU member state, hold a university degree (at least three years of post-secondary study), and have thorough knowledge of at least two EU official languages — one at C1 level and one at B2 level. The second language must typically be English, French, or German, as these are the working languages of the EU institutions.
The Selection Process
The competition unfolds in several stages over 12-18 months. First, candidates submit their applications through the EU Careers portal during a 4-6 week window. Next come computer-based tests (CBTs) at Prometric test centres worldwide, covering verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, abstract reasoning, and situational judgement. The top-scoring candidates are then invited to an Assessment Centre in Brussels, which includes a case study, group exercise, oral presentation, and competency-based interview.
How to Prepare
Start preparing well in advance. Practice the reasoning tests using EPSO's free sample tests on the EU Careers portal. Consider investing in preparation courses from established providers such as EU Training or Prepari. For the Assessment Centre, study the EU core competencies framework and prepare STAR-method examples from your professional, academic, or volunteer experience. Understanding EU institutions and current EU policies will also strengthen your performance.
AD5 Salary and Benefits
AD5 is the entry-level administrator grade with a basic monthly salary of approximately EUR 4,917 to EUR 5,565. With the expatriation allowance (16% for staff working outside their home country), household allowance, and other benefits, total compensation is highly competitive. EU salaries are exempt from national income tax, with a lower EU community tax applied instead. The package includes comprehensive health insurance, pension rights, and generous annual leave.
Tips for Success
Competition for AD5 places is fierce, with success rates typically between 1% and 5%. However, many successful candidates report that thorough preparation made the difference. Focus on the computer-based tests — most candidates are eliminated at this stage. Practice under timed conditions, as speed is as important as accuracy. For the Assessment Centre, authenticity and structured responses matter more than polished performance. And if you don't succeed on your first attempt, try again — many current EU officials passed on their second or third competition.