Complete guide to preparing and passing an exam

The first thing an applicant must do is to be clear about what they want to apply for. This means evaluating all the available options to assess the realistic chances of obtaining a position. You must consider the type of work you would like to do once you get your position and take into account both the type of administration and the location of the position, since, in many cases, it will be necessary to move to other regions or provinces.

In addition, it is important that you assess whether the opposition you are applying for is of free access or Internal promotion. In internal promotion competitions, where you compete only with public employees, you may have more chances of success. Also, if the competition is for competition-opposition, it is essential to understand how merits are valued in order to maximise your opportunities. Additional training, work experience or recognised qualifications can give you points at this stage.

Phases of the selection process

Any selection process in Spain follows a series of phases. Although the specific phases may vary depending on the administration, there are several common steps:

• Submission of applications: Applicants must register within the deadline. 15 to 20 business days after the announcement of the exam is published. The rules indicate the fees you must pay to take the exam, as well as other required documents.
• Provisional list of admitted and excluded: After registration, a provisional list is published where those excluded can correct errors within a period of 10 working days.
• Final list of admitted applicants: Once errors have been corrected, the final list is published with the date, place and time of the first test.
• Carrying out the tests: Tests may include theoretical, practical, psychotechnical or language exams. The interval between them may vary between 72 hours y 45 calendar days. Depending on the opposition, you could take oral exams or physical tests.
• List of approved: Once the tests are over, the list of those admitted is published in order of score.
• Provision of documentation: Approved opponents have 20 working days to submit the documentation.
• Appointment: After reviewing the documentation, the approved candidates receive the appointment as civil servants. In addition, if there were interim employees, they will be included in a specific list.

Choose the type of opposition well

The competitive examinations in Spain are scheduled by different administrations and the places are divided into several groups according to the academic level required:

• Group A: It requires a university degree and is subdivided into A1 and A2. A1 includes higher bodies such as inspectors or senior technicians, and A2 includes technical bodies.
• Group B: Requires a Higher Technical qualification (Higher Vocational Training).
• Group C: It is subdivided into C1 (requires Baccalaureate) and C2 (with sufficient ESO).

Once the group has been determined, it is important to assess whether the opposition is free access or Internal promotionInternal promotion usually offers a less competitive path, as you only face officials who are also seeking promotion, increasing your chances if you perform your job well and accumulate merits.

Plan your studies for an exam

Preparing for an exam requires a detailed planningHere are some tips to better manage your study:

• Organize your time: Break down your agenda into blocks and allocate a specific amount of time for each one. Make sure your plan is realistic in light of your other responsibilities, such as work or personal commitments.
• Use updated material: An up-to-date syllabus is key as regulations change. Studying from outdated material can reduce your chances of success.
• Strengthen your memory with regular reviews: It is best to review frequently to retain the information in the long term.
• Mock exams: Taking tests similar to the real exam will help you get used to the format and manage your time better during the official test.
• Try different study techniques: Methods such as highlighting, mind mapping, or the Pomodoro Method are useful. Experiment and find out which technique helps you most in retaining information.

Technological tools for candidates

Today, technology offers multiple tools that can speed up and optimize preparation for an exam. Here are some tools that may be useful to you:

• Mobile applications and online platforms: Nowadays, there are specialized platforms for competitive examinations that offer updated syllabi, self-assessment tests and mock exams. Many of these resources are interactive, facilitating efficient and organized study.
• Call alerts: You can subscribe to email alert services that inform you in real time when new calls for tender are published in the BOE, regional or local bulletins.
• Probability statistics: Some online calculators offer estimates of which topics are most likely to appear on the exam, based on historical trends and statistics from previous exam sessions.

Common mistakes to avoid during preparation

Preparing for an exam is a challenge both academically and emotionally. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve your goal:

• Starting late: Don't wait for the call for applications to be published to start studying. The sooner you start, the more time you will have to consolidate your knowledge.
• Lack of organization: Preparation should be meticulous and organized, with a progressive study plan that covers the entire syllabus. Failure to plan properly can result in you not having enough time to review or study key topics.
• Dismiss the practice: Don't underestimate the power of mock exams. These tests prepare you psychologically for exam day, and help you identify areas for improvement in the technical part.
• Discouragement: Taking exams requires perseverance and patience. It is easy to become discouraged when the results do not come quickly, but staying motivated is key to not giving up on the process.

Stay motivated and take care of your health

Preparation is both a physical and mental challenge. Maintaining good health and high motivation is essential to maximise your performance:

• Practice healthy habits: Getting enough sleep (7-8 hours), exercising daily and eating a balanced diet are key to keeping your mind active and clear for studying.
• Take regular breaks: The Pomodoro technique, which consists of studying for 25 minutes and resting for 5 minutes, is one of the most effective ways to maintain concentration for long periods of time.
• Social support: Talking to family or friends about your goals and problems will help you release tension and maintain positive energy. Surrounding yourself with a healthy environment will be key to your success.

If you follow these tips and remain consistent, you will be closer to your goal. Although the process may seem long and complicated, do not doubt that the effort will be worth it when you get your position as a civil servant.