[J_89]

Hi guys,

I have a few questions about the European Fast Stream. I know it was only re-introduced in 08/09, so is it a stable competition? Furthermore, how competitive is it? Obviously the Fast Stream generally is very competitive, but I'm concerned with the EU option. Being that a second EU language is a pre-requisite I'm guessing that it's not as competitive. Also, is it normal for applicants to have an MA?

I will have a BA in Politics & International Relations with German, a year in Germany, and a year's diploma at a university in the Netherlands and I also speak Dutch and Italian. But I don't have an MA.

Thanks.

[netprime]

Hi J,

I'll help answer what I can, although I'm basing my knowledge on the work experience I did in Brussels back in April - so it may not be 100% accurate. Your best bet is to check out the internet sites: http://faststream.civilservice.gov.u...n-Fast-Stream/

It is still incredibly competitive, as are most public sector graduate schemes. Yet if you are applying from Britain (which I presume you are) you may have a slightly easier time of it as Britain is under represented at the EU level, and from what UKREP told me, the EU institutions are crying out for more British involvement.

The basic requirement is a 2:2 in any degree, and a second language must be to A level grade (in French or German, as they - with English - form the primary languages of the EU, I'm afraid Dutch and Italian won't help you during the application process). If your second language isn't quite up to speed though, UKREP offer a lot of assistance to ensure you are able to pass the language tests - from what civil servants have told me though, it is not a particularly difficult language test. The language section involves a written test, and then you have to have an interview conducted wholly in your second language, along with a presentation you have to give in your second language.

EU is still a good way to go in my opinion, if I could improve my French enough I would consider applying myself.