Question 1

What is the EU AD5 competition pass rate?

Accepted Answer

In the 2019 AD5 competition, the success rate was about 0.7%. However, this varies. With potentially more positions in 2026, the rate might improve to 4-5%.

Question 2

How long does the entire AD5 competition process take?

Accepted Answer

From application to reserve list placement typically takes 6-8 months. Getting hired from the reserve list can take additional months or even years.

Question 3

Can I take the AD5 exam if I'm not an EU citizen?

Accepted Answer

No, EU citizenship is a mandatory requirement for AD5 permanent positions. You must be a citizen of one of the 27 EU member states.

Question 4

What happens if I make the reserve list but don't get recruited?

Accepted Answer

Reserve lists are valid for multiple years. Higher rankings get priority for job offers. If not recruited before the list expires, you would need to compete again.

Question 5

As the new name of the AD5 competition is 'Graduates,' is there an upper age limit? Can an experienced person over 50 apply, and if so, is it actually possible to get recruited from the list?

Accepted Answer

You can and definitely should apply! There is no upper age limit, and it is possible to get recruited; work experience can actually be very beneficial when applying for positions (the retirement age at the Commission is 66).

Question 6

What languages do you actually need to work in the EU? Is French required?

Accepted Answer

The official truth: EU positions require two EU languages, one of which must be a Commission working language (EN/FR/DE).

In practice: English as the working language + any other EU language is sufficient (it doesn't matter which).

Most work in the institutions is done in English. There are some institutions where French is used more as a working language.

Question 7

In the context of EPSO (European Personnel Selection Office) competitions and EU recruitment, what do the acronyms CAST, FG, and AD stand for, and how do they differ?

Accepted Answer

These terms refer to different types of selection procedures and job categories within EU institutions.

1. CAST (Contract Agents Selection Tool)
What it means: This is the selection procedure for Contract Agents (staff on fixed-term contracts), rather than permanent civil servants.

How it works: Unlike 'Open Competitions' which happen on specific dates, CAST is usually open-ended. You register your interest, and if an institution needs your specific profile, they will invite you to take the exam.

Key takeaway: It is for temporary/contract work, which often functions as a foot in the door for a career in the EU.

2. FG (Function Group)
What it means: This term is used specifically within the CAST (Contract Agent) system to classify the level of responsibility and the salary bracket.

The Levels: There are four function groups:

FG I: Manual and administrative support services (e.g., drivers, canteen staff).

FG II: Clerical and secretarial tasks.

FG III: Executive, drafting, and accountancy tasks.

FG IV: Administrative, advisory, and linguistic tasks (equivalent to the level of a university graduate).

3. AD (Administrator)
What it means: This refers to the highest category of Permanent Officials (Civil Servants).

The Role: 'Administrators' are typically involved in drafting policies, implementing EU law, and advisory work. To apply for an AD competition, you generally need a university degree.

The Grades: The career track runs from AD 5 (entry-level graduate) up to AD 16 (Director-General level).

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