Further to the communiqué published by EPSO on 10 April 2025, and in response to questions being asked to EPSO since then, we would like to provide further clarification about the current situation.

What happened?

On 6 March 2025, an unfortunate test set-up error occurred, allowing multiple answers in tests where only one answer was correct. Our investigation revealed that over 3,000 candidates were affected. Although candidate instructions stated that only one answer was correct, it was unclear whether candidates had assumed that a second answer would cancel out the first. This is a plausible scenario in a time-pressured testing situation. Therefore, a retesting session became justified, instead of disqualification.

A second chance

After careful consideration, and in consultation with the Selection Boards and the EU institutions concerned, EPSO decided to retest all participants in the affected testing event on 14 May. This decision ensures fairness and an equal footing for all candidates, as retesting only those who had provided multiple answers could have given them an undue advantage.

Transparency

EPSO has been in touch with the external contractor responsible for this error since it was first detected. Negotiations are ongoing to determine the financial implications of this situation. EPSO acknowledges the inconvenience the retesting may cause to the candidates who had carefully followed the rules, but we prioritise fairness and transparency in all our selection procedures. Errors can happen and this is an annoying situation. Our full focus now is on remedial action.