Breaking news from EPSO | 10 June 2025
The rumours were true: EPSO announced today that the publication of the Generalist AD5 competition will be postponed.
The indicative planning had initially suggested that applications would open in July 2025. However, it now appears that the launch will not occur until after the summer holidays. We consider it more likely to be launched towards the end of the year.
This delay is primarily due to EPSO's recent contract signing with a new test provider. This additional time will allow for the thorough onboarding of the new platform, ensuring its readiness for large-scale testing. And when we say large scale, we mean huge. The platform must keep running well and not crash at the mere thought of 40-50,000 EPSO candidates logging in at one time.
EPSO has reaffirmed its commitment to launching the AD5 Generalist competition, stating that it is a "high priority goal in EPSO's overall planning", although whether the launch will still happen this year remains to be seen - some are doubtful, most are still hopeful.
They also acknowledged the disappointment this will cause for the thousands of would-be candidates patiently waiting for this opportunity to apply for these much sought-after EU permanent official roles at the entry level. They also pledged transparency and clear communications throughout the selection process - once it becomes official.
There was no mention of what is to become of the other competitions still floating around on the upcoming competitions page, e.g. AST3 communications, secretaries, building specialists and the mysterious LUX one. Are these lost at sea, or will EPSO go ahead with these smaller competitions to test the waters? Let's hope the next wave of announcements comes sooner than later...
Read more about the AD5 Generalist competition in our guide.