2 min

Breaking down misconceptions about competitive examinations

You have several questions…You think that competitive examinations are not within your reach… Well think again, this is a misconception, and we will prove you wrong!

Updated on 03 March 2020

illustration Breaking down misconceptions about competitive examinations
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So competitive examinations still exist?

Yes, examinations make it possible to guarantee equal access to public employment for all. Thanks to examinations, all candidates start with equal opportunities.

 


I don’t stand a chance among so many candidates!

False, we receive 9 applications for each position on average. INRAE competitive examinations are “human-scaled”. The objective is not to organise mass examinations for broad-based positions. Each exam corresponds to a specific occupation.

 


I will have to spend hours revising!

False, the written exams are within your reach because the proposed exercises concern the core activity that you will practice. Your experience and/or training are your assets for success. And you can train thanks to our past exam papers. As for the oral exam, it is very similar to a standard job interview, with a set of questions / answers.

 

Common belief number 4

A competitive examination sounds vague… Where would I be assigned and what would I be doing?

At INRAE, before you take the exams, you have access to the specific job description, the list of assignments as well as the job location. You thus apply for a job and workplace of your choice.

 

Common belief number 5

Registering for a competitive examination is always an arduous task…

False, at INRAE, we are connected! You can register online, it only takes a few minutes.

  

 

SEE OUR COMPETITIVE EXAMINATION SESSIONS

Learn more

What does a competitive examination involve?

Competitive examinations are a gateway to public sector employment, and the main recruitment process for permanent positions. The objective is to guarantee access to all while respecting equal treatment for each candidate.

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Understanding our public service corps according to your profile

When you register for an INRAE competitive examination, it is in view of a specific profession, one that corresponds to your aspirations and skills. So, you don’t understand why we are talking about ‘recruitment corps’. It's simple : when you pass a competitive public service examination, you are integrated into a specific professional ‘corps’. Everything is explained to you!

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The keys to success at an INRAE competitive examination

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29 January 2020