On 27 January, EPSO conducted its first testing event with the new TAO platform, provided by Open Assessment Technologies. The testing concerned candidates participating in the four fields of competition EPSO/AD/425/25 (Building management).

The level of performance of the new testing platform has a high significance for all Europeans wishing to apply for EU careers. In a spirit of transparency, EPSO is sharing a first set of data and observations on the testing event.

Over 2200 candidates connected to the platform to sit the tests (2249 out of 3170 applicants, with a “no-show” rate of around 30%). Out of those 2249 candidates, about 91% were able to complete all three tests. First indications show that about 9% were not able to complete all tests. These cases will be reviewed by EPSO to assess how many are related to some prohibited behaviour, such as closing the camera or leaving the workstation, and how many are due to technical issues. EPSO is working at full speed to carefully assess all received enquiries and reported technical issues, and to identify areas for improvement in cooperation with its contractor, in view of future competitions. A retesting opportunity will be offered in justified cases.

While being mindful of the reported difficulties, overall EPSO considers this first experience with the new platform a step in the right direction.