AD5 EU Jobs — 13 Vacancies 2026

About AD5 positions, requirements, and career path

What is a AD5 Position?

AD5 is the entry-level Administrator grade in the EU institutions. Administrator positions involve policy development, legislative drafting, economic analysis, and other professional tasks requiring a university degree. AD5 is the standard starting grade for candidates who pass an EPSO generalist competition (Administrators/Graduates). No prior work experience is required for AD5 generalist roles, making this the primary entry point for university graduates seeking a career in the EU institutions. The current AD5 basic monthly salary ranges from approximately EUR 4,917 to EUR 5,565, before allowances and benefits such as expatriation allowance, household allowance, and dependent child allowance.

How to Get a AD5 Position

The main route to an AD5 position is through an EPSO open competition for Administrators (Graduates). These competitions are held periodically and are open to EU citizens with a university degree. The selection process includes computer-based tests (verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning), an e-tray exercise, and an assessment centre with competency-based interviews and group exercises. Alternatively, EU agencies recruit AD5 positions directly through their own selection procedures, which typically involve CV screening, written tests, and interviews. The CAST Permanent process also offers a pathway for contract agent positions at equivalent levels.

AD5 Career Progression

From AD5, career progression follows a clear path through the AD grade scale. Promotions from AD5 to AD6 typically take two to four years, based on performance appraisals and available positions. Further progression to AD7, AD8, and beyond depends on merit and the assumption of increased responsibilities. Around AD9-AD12, staff may take on head-of-unit or team-leader roles. The senior management track (AD13-AD16) includes director and director-general positions. Each grade has salary steps that increase automatically every two years, providing regular salary growth within the same grade.

Requirements

A completed university degree (at least three years of study) is required. For generalist competitions, any field of study is accepted. Specialist competitions may require specific qualifications (law, economics, IT, etc.). Candidates must be EU citizens and have thorough knowledge of at least two EU official languages: one at C1 level and one at B2 level.

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