Frequently Asked Questions

They are computer-based, time-limited tests used in many EU competitions and CAST selections to measure general cognitive ability. The three classic formats are verbal reasoning (drawing conclusions from a short text), numerical reasoning (working with data, percentages and ratios) and abstract reasoning (finding the rule in a sequence of figures).

They do not test knowledge of the EU. A candidate with no background in EU affairs can score very well with the right method and enough timed practice.

No. Real test questions are confidential and are never published. Every question on Free Epso Questions is original material written in the style of EU competition tests, so that you can become familiar with the format, the typical traps and the pace required.

The questions are deliberately demanding. Verbal passages are based on realistic EU policy topics, numerical items often require two or three steps (for example a percentage change followed by a ratio), and abstract sequences usually combine more than one rule. Practising at a slightly higher level than you expect makes the real test feel more manageable.

Timing depends on the competition and is always stated in the Notice of Competition. As a general rule of thumb, candidates have roughly one to two minutes per question, with numerical questions usually allowing a little more time than verbal or abstract ones. The simulation mode on this site uses a fixed timer so you can train your rhythm.

In most recent EPSO reasoning tests there has been no penalty for a wrong answer, which means you should never leave a question blank. Rules can change, however, so always confirm the marking system in the Notice of Competition of your specific selection procedure.

Reasoning tests are often taken in one of the official EU languages chosen by the candidate, but the exact language rules are set by each competition. That is why this site offers its practice questions in several languages: practising in the language you will actually use on the day helps both speed and accuracy.

Most candidates benefit from six to ten weeks of regular practice, with short daily sessions rather than occasional long ones. A structured approach — learning the method, practising untimed, then moving to timed sets and full simulations — works better than doing random questions. Our 8-week study plan describes this progression in detail.

An on-screen calculator is generally available in EPSO numerical reasoning tests. It helps with the arithmetic, but it does not choose the right figures for you: most errors come from reading the wrong row of a table or misunderstanding what is being asked. Estimating the answer before calculating is a quick way to catch mistakes.

Read the question first, then search the passage for the exact sentence that supports or contradicts each option. Reject any option that relies on outside knowledge, that generalises a limited statement, or that turns 'may' into 'must'. Reviewing your wrong answers and naming the trap you fell for is the single most effective habit.

Look at one feature at a time: number of elements, shape, shading, position and rotation. Write down each rule you find, predict the next figure, and only then look at the options. With practice you will recognise common rule families quickly, which saves a lot of time.

Yes. Your scores and the questions you answered incorrectly are saved only in your own browser, so you can review your mistakes later. Nothing is sent to a server and no account is needed. Clearing your browser data resets your progress.

Yes. All questions, guides and simulations are free and require no registration. The site may show advertising to cover its running costs, and only with your consent through the cookie banner.

No. Free Epso Questions is an independent project created by Carlo Ciocca. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to EPSO or any EU institution. For official information, always refer to the EPSO website and the Notice of Competition.