Luck = When preparation meets opportunity
How to Succeed in EPSO Exams in 2024 and 2025
With new EPSO exams on the horizon for 2024 and 2025, many candidates are eagerly awaiting the exact dates.
While you may not know when the exams will take place, passively waiting to start your preparation is not an option. The best candidates know that luck is when preparation meets opportunity—and they take every chance to get ready well in advance.
Here’s a detailed guide with nine tips to help you start preparing, even before the official announcements.
- Treat it like training for a sports competition
Athletes don’t wait until the week before a race to start training, and neither should you. Begin by creating a structured plan that spans over the next 6–12 months, broken down into phases:
- Phase 1 (months 1-3): Research the exam structure, types of tests (verbal, numerical, abstract reasoning, written test, domain-specific test), and the competencies EPSO looks for.
- Phase 2 (months 4-6): Start light practice sessions, focusing on question types you find difficult.
- Phase 3 (months 7+, unless exam date is already known): Intensify practice and simulate full test conditions (e.g., timing yourself on practice tests).
- Know the methods
EPSO exams follow specific formats, like multiple-choice questions for reasoning or the Written Test.
Begin by understanding the structure of past exams:
- Use practice materials on EU Training’s website.
- Use online test simulators.
- Allocate at least 30 minutes every other day to study these formats.
This method ensures that you can confidently tackle any question type that comes up on the exam.
- Build key skills over time
In addition to subject matter, EPSO exams focus on analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. These skills aren’t developed overnight, so start building them now:
- Communication: Join a Toastmasters club or take an online writing course to refine how you present your ideas. This will benefit you even beyond EPSO exams.
- Problem-solving: Practice EU exams or look for other types of logical or verbal reasoning exercises that are not directly related to EPSO but can help you develop these skills.
- Manage your time wisely
Since you may not know exactly when the exams will be announced, make your study time count by setting up a flexible, long-term schedule:
- Weekly study blocks: Dedicate 2-3 hours a week for focused exam prep, perhaps broken into shorter 45-minute sessions.
- Use tools like Google Calendar or the Todoist app to track your progress and to avoid procrastination.
By starting now, you’ll avoid last-minute cramming and be much better prepared when the exam dates are revealed.
- Regular practice is non-negotiable
EPSO exams are about consistency, not just cramming. Once you understand the exam formats, commit to taking at least one full practice test per week. These exams typically run for around 3 hours, so practice taking them in one sitting to build endurance and focus.
- Actionable tip: Practice tests that simulate real EPSO conditions are better at mimicking the pressure because under timed conditions your performance will inevitably suffer.
- Develop a stress management routine
Mental endurance is as important as intellectual preparation. EPSO exams can be intense, but stress management techniques can help:
- Consider a regular mindfulness practice: Use apps like Headspace or Calm or Waking Up for 10 minutes of meditation a day.
- Physical exercise is also a great way to manage stress, so aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise, three times a week to keep your body and mind in top condition.
Having a stress management approach in place will keep you calm and focused during the exam.
- Visualize the exams (and success)
Athletes often use visualization to enhance performance, and the same technique can apply to exam preparation. Spend 5-10 minutes each day visualizing yourself succeeding at the exam:
- Imagine yourself confidently answering questions.
- Picture yourself staying calm and finishing each section within the time limit.
This habit will boost your confidence and help reduce exam-day anxiety.
- Stay updated on the latest news
EPSO’s exam dates can be announced with about 4-6 weeks of notice, so staying informed is crucial. Set up alerts and regularly check EPSO’s official website or your EPSO account:
- Tip: Follow relevant EU career newsletters or join online communities (like the EU Training LinkedIn or Facebook group) to hear about any updates immediately.
Being in the loop ensures you’re the first to know and ready to adjust your preparation plan.
- Reflect and adjust your approach
Preparation is rarely a straight line. Regularly review your progress, and don’t hesitate to adjust your strategy:
- After every 4-6 weeks, take a moment to reflect: Are you improving in your weaker areas? Is your practice time paying off?
- Use the results of your practice tests to refine your approach.
Flexibility is key in long-term preparation—don’t be afraid to change your methods if something isn’t working.
By preparing well before the exam dates are even announced, you’re not just waiting for the opportunity—you’re actively “creating your own luck”. Follow these tips, and when the time comes, you’ll be ready to step up and make the most of the opportunity ahead.
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More tips to master EPSO exam preparation
Join András for this focused workshop that equips you with practical strategies for mastering EPSO exams, from building steady study habits to managing time effectively under pressure. Inspired by Atomic Habits, the workshop covers everything you need to approach exam day with confidence and clarity.
28 November workshop: full details and registration