Which language are EPSO tests in? Language 1 vs Language 2
The language you take each EPSO test in depends on the competition. Here is how it works in the AD5 2026 competition, and what it means for how you practise.
Based on the official notice EPSO/AD/427/26. Last checked on 22 October 2026.
The short answer
- Reasoning tests (verbal, numerical, abstract): Language 1.
- EU knowledge, digital skills and the EUFTE essay: Language 2.
- You choose your test languages in the application form.
What Language 1 and Language 2 mean
The notice asks for two languages:
- Language 1: a thorough knowledge, at least C1, of one of the 24 official EU languages.
- Language 2: a satisfactory knowledge, at least B2, of a different official EU language.
The notice also says the application itself can be made in any of the 24 official languages. For the exact wording and the full language table, read section 4.2 of the notice of competition.
Which test uses which language
| Test | Language | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning | Language 1 | Part 1 |
| EU knowledge test | Language 2 | Part 2 |
| Digital skills test | Language 2 | Part 2 |
| EUFTE essay | Language 2 | Part 2 |
The language table in section 4.2 of the notice assigns the reasoning tests to Language 1 and the other three tests to Language 2. Check your own invitation letter and testing platform for the language shown against each test.
What this means for your preparation
- Verbal reasoning is a test of your Language 1. It is the reasoning test that carries into the ranking, so reading and judging passages in your own Language 1 under time pressure is the closest practice. Our verbal reasoning tips on True, False and Cannot Say apply in any language, because the logic is the same.
- Abstract and numerical reasoning travel well. Patterns, numbers and tables need little reading, so practice in any language builds the same skill.
- Your Language 2 matters for Part 2. The EU knowledge test, the digital skills test and the essay are taken in it, so reading speed in your Language 2 affects how many questions you can answer in time.
Our practice tests are in English
The practice questions on this site are written in English. That is a direct match if English is your Language 1 or Language 2. If it is neither, use them for abstract and numerical practice and for learning the question formats, and read passages in your own Language 1 alongside them for verbal practice.
Other competitions can differ
Everything above applies to AD5 2026. Each notice has its own language section, with its own required levels, language choices and test assignments. Read section 4.2, or its equivalent, before you apply. For the scoring side of the same tests, see EPSO reasoning tests: scoring and pass marks.
EPSO test language: FAQ
What language are the EPSO reasoning tests in?
In the AD5 2026 competition (EPSO/AD/427/26) the reasoning tests are taken in Language 1, the language you declare at C1 level in your application. You choose your test languages in the application form.
Do I have to take the reasoning tests in English?
Not in the AD5 2026 notice. Reasoning tests use Language 1, which can be any of the 24 official EU languages. English is only required if it is your Language 1.
Which tests use Language 2?
In the AD5 2026 notice, the EU knowledge test, the digital skills test and the EUFTE essay use Language 2, a different official EU language at B2 level.
Are abstract reasoning questions affected by language?
Very little. Abstract questions are built from shapes and patterns, so reading skill matters far less than in the verbal test. Numerical questions rely on numbers, tables and short labels.
Is it still useful to practise in English if my Language 1 is not English?
Yes for abstract and numerical reasoning, and for learning how the verbal question format works. For verbal reasoning itself, passages in your own Language 1 are the closest match to the real test, and English practice matters most if English is your Language 2.
Source: Notice of open competition EPSO/AD/427/26 (OJ C/2026/711), section 4.2. This site is not affiliated with EPSO or the European Union.
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