How to prepare for the EPSO AST3 Communication exams
Preparing for the AST3 Communication exams is all about building step by step. Think of it as stacking building blocks: each test is a block, and together they form the full picture of your preparation. With the right structure, you can stay focused, build confidence, and walk into exam day ready to succeed.
Before you get started, update your EU Training profile with your competition details. This ensures you’ll receive tailored updates, useful reminders, and exclusive discounts. Here’s how:
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Log in to your EU Training account and click on your avatar.
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Select ‘My account’ in the top right corner.
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Choose your EPSO competition from the drop-down menu.
A solid foundation
Good preparation starts with the right mindset. A useful first step is to read When preparation meets opportunity - it sets out the essentials of effective exam prep.
Next, tap into András Baneth’s expertise with the Exam Preparation Mastery webinar. You’ll discover how to organise your study time and develop the mindset needed to maximise your performance.
Make sure you understand the what, why and how of the Notice of Competition, and what is required of you - the EPSO candidate: This article: Applications open: EPSO 2025 AST3 Communication, breaks it down and makes it easy to understand.
Last but not least, surround yourself with friendly fellow candidates by joining a collaborative community where you can ask questions, find out if rumours are true and get the latest news. Join the AST3 Communication Facebook group here.
The building blocks of preparation
Block 1: Reasoning skills
The foundation block. Every EPSO competition starts with the reasoning skills tests, and the AST3 Communication exams are no exception. These include verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning questions, which are designed to assess your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities rather than your professional knowledge.
Get started with these free resources:
Get expert tips directly from our trainers during these live methodology sessions which included online test simulations.
Tip: If you are struggling to understand the methodology, these reasoning skills videos break down even the trickiest questions step-by-step: Numerical and Abstract reasoning questions with video explanations.
Block 2: Field-related MCQ
The knowledge block. You’ll face multiple-choice questions in your chosen profile: Graphic design, Social media, or Webmaster. This is where your professional knowledge comes into play. EPSO wants to see that you not only have the skills for the job, but also understand the tools, legislation, and best practices relevant to your field.
Begin with the FRMCQ resources and reading list - these are the reference materials collected and used by the question writers.
You can also buy Field-Related MCQ practice questions individually here.
Block 3: EUFTE (Free Text Essay on EU matters)
The communication block. The EUFTE is a written test on EU-related topics, assessing the clarity and structure of your written communication skills. You will receive a document two weeks before the exam date, and on exam day you will be asked to write a written response to an assignment based on that document.
Free articles:
Live training session
Improve the clarity and structure of your writing, not just for the EUFTE, but for your everyday working communications, join the Clear Writing Workshop with Thomas Williams and gain valuable skills.
On-demand recording
Get more specific with an EUFTE-focused webinar presented by expert Susanne Lindahl. Find how it works, what to avoid and how to write a winning response.
Watch this space...
When EPSO releases the document two weeks before the exam EU Training will create an exam-specific assignment based on that document including an evaluation with a 24 hour turn-around. It's a very short and very intense period with limited slots available.
Block 4: Put it all together
Once you’ve built the basics, take the smart step: choose an AST3 Communication Discount Package to bring everything under one roof.
Packages include:
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Reasoning skills questions
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Field-Related MCQ questions
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EUFTE simulation writing practice, including a sample document
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Some packages include evaluations for your EUFTE response
This way, your preparation is structured, complete, and cost-effective. Build each block, stack them together, and you’ll be ready for exam day.
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Wishing you good luck
Contact us if you are unsure how to proceed or need advice on which package would best suit your needs.