EPSO Exam Day: What Happens Step by Step

Knowing what to expect on exam day eliminates unnecessary anxiety. Since late 2023, EPSO has fully transitioned to remote online proctored testing for all competitions. You take the exam on your own computer at home (or another quiet location) while being monitored by a proctor via webcam and screen sharing.

EPSO currently works with two online testing providers — Open Assessment Technologies (primary) and Prometric (secondary). You will see which one applies to your competition in your EPSO account.

What You Need

Technical requirements:

• A computer with a working webcam and microphone
• A stable internet connection
• A supported web browser (check EPSO's technical requirements well in advance)
• A quiet, private room with no other people present

Before the test:

• Complete the system check and software installation at least 48 hours before your test slot
• Have your valid photo ID ready (passport or national ID card — the same one you registered with)
• Clear your desk — no notes, books, phones, or second monitors
• Close all other applications on your computer

On test day:

• Log in 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time
• The proctor will verify your identity via webcam
• You may be asked to show your room with your webcam (360-degree room scan)
• Once verified, the proctor launches your test

The Test Interface

• One question at a time. You can navigate forward and backward within a section.
• A progress bar shows how many questions remain and the time left.
• You can flag questions to return to later. Use this — do not get stuck.
• The timer is visible at all times. When time runs out, the test ends automatically.
• Unanswered questions score zero. There is no negative marking — always guess rather than leave a question blank.

Test Order and Timing

For a typical AD5 competition CBT:

1. Verbal reasoning: 20 questions, approximately 35 minutes
2. Numerical reasoning: 10 questions, approximately 20 minutes
3. Abstract reasoning: 10 questions, approximately 10 minutes

Each section has its own timer. You cannot carry unused time from one section to another. Within a section, you can move freely between questions.

Some competitions include EU Knowledge and/or Digital Skills as additional sections. Check your competition notice for the exact structure.

During the Test

• Read each question fully before looking at the answer options.
• Use the on-screen notepad for numerical reasoning calculations.
• Flag uncertain questions and return to them if time permits.
• Watch the clock but do not obsess over it. A quick glance every 5 questions is enough.
• If a question is taking too long (more than 2x the average time per question), flag it and move on.

After the Test

1. The screen will confirm that your test has been submitted.
2. You will not receive your score immediately. Results are published by EPSO weeks or months after the testing window closes.

Common Concerns

"What if I have a technical issue?" Contact the proctor immediately via the chat function. EPSO and its testing partners have protocols for technical failures — your progress is typically saved.

"Can I take a bathroom break?" The timer does not stop. For short tests (under 60 minutes), plan accordingly. For longer test sessions, check whether breaks are built in.

"What if I feel unwell?" You can request to reschedule through EPSO before the test date. On the day, you can choose to stop, but your test may be scored as-is.

The exam experience is deliberately standardised. That is the point: it removes variables so that your score reflects your preparation, not your environment.