CAST: how contract agents are selected

4 min read · updated October 2026

CAST Permanent is EPSO's open-ended database of candidates for contract agent posts in four function groups (FG I to FG IV). You register a profile at any time; nothing happens until an institution or agency searches the database and pre-selects you for a vacancy. Only then are you invited to the tests.

The tests

CAST candidates sit the reasoning tests only: verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning, with question counts and time limits set by function group. There is no EU knowledge or field test at this stage; the institution that pre-selected you may hold its own competency test or interview afterwards.

Preparing

Because an invitation can arrive at short notice and tests are scheduled in sessions several times a year, keep reasoning skills warm: one numerical and one abstract test a week is enough to stay in shape.