EU Knowledge
EU Institutions
Questions about the structure, roles, and functioning of EU institutions.
Overview
EU institutions questions cover the European Commission, European Parliament, Council of the EU, European Council, Court of Justice, Court of Auditors, and European Central Bank. You need to know who does what, how they interact, and key procedural details.
What is tested
- Roles and composition of each institution
- Legislative procedures (ordinary, special, consultation)
- Appointment processes for key positions
- Differences between similarly-named bodies (Council of the EU vs European Council)
Preparation tips
- The Commission proposes, the Parliament and Council co-decide (ordinary legislative procedure)
- European Council = heads of state (strategic direction); Council of the EU = ministers (legislation)
- Know the current number of MEPs (720 after 2024), Commissioners (one per member state)
- Focus on the institutional triangle: Commission, Parliament, Council
Preparation requires structured EU knowledge
This test category draws on a broad understanding of EU institutions, treaties, procedures, and policies. Our EU Knowledge Database covers all 17 thematic chapters tested by EPSO.
Study the EU Knowledge Database