Types of competitive examinations in Spain and their selection tests

  • There are different types of public employees in Spain: career civil servants, interim, temporary and temporary staff.
  • The exams may include multiple choice tests, practical cases, written development, physical examinations and personal interviews.
  • Each type of opposition requires specific preparation adapted to its tests and requirements.

Types of competitive examinations in Spain

Types of public employees in Spain

If you have decided to bet on a stable and secure employment, you are probably considering taking a civil service exam. However, it is essential to know the different types of public employees, since not all of them have the same category or responsibility. In Spain, there are four large groups of public employees:

  • Career officials: These are those who access their position through a selective process and are guaranteed stability.
  • Acting officials: They temporarily fill vacancies among career civil servants.
  • Labor staff: Hired by the Administration under different contractual modalities.
  • Temporary staff: Temporarily appointed to perform specific functions in the public sector.

Depending on the type of public employee you want to be, you must choose the appropriate opposition and prepare yourself according to its selection system. If you want to find out more about the types of oppositions that exist, you can consult the available information.

Types of evidence in oppositions

Depending on professional group or category Depending on the position you are applying for, the tests may vary. Below, we show you the most common ones in the selection processes for public administration.

Multiple choice test

Multiple choice tests are the most common. They consist of a questionnaire with several possible answers where you must choose the correct one. Some characteristics of this type of test include:

  • May be included two tests: one on the general syllabus and another on specific aspects of the position.
  • In many exams, incorrect answers result in points being deducted.
  • It is essential to develop a response strategy to minimize errors.

Opponents in class

Development questions

This type of test assesses the candidate's ability to correctly express his or her knowledge. Open questions are presented that must be answered as accurately as possible.

  • It is usually asked for a clear structure, with introduction, development and conclusion.
  • It is essential to demonstrate technical knowledge and good writing skills.

Practical cases

They evaluate how the opponent would apply his knowledge in real-life situations of the job. They may include problem solving, analyzing administrative records, or writing documents.

  • They are common in oppositions for technical bodies and administrative.
  • require a deep understanding of the syllabus and analytical skills.

Computer or typing tests

These tests are common in competitive examinations for administrative assistants and technical bodies. They evaluate skills in typing, office automation or specific software, depending on the position to which the applicant is applying.

  • Speed ​​and accuracy in writing may be required.
  • Some exams include practical exercises of Microsoft Office and document management.

Physical tests

Essential for competitive examinations Security Forces and Bodies State, firefighters or forest rangers.

  • They include tests of endurance, speed, strength and coordination.
  • Each call specifies the minimum physical requirements.

Personal interviews

They assess the psychological suitability of the candidate and can be decisive in high-profile selection processes.

  • Are valued communicative skills, conflict resolution and motivation.
  • In oppositions to security bodies, it is also carried out psychological profile.

Psychotechnical exam

They evaluate the cognitive and psychological abilities of the candidate, determining its adaptation to the workplace.

  • They may include tests of logical reasoning, memory and verbal ability.
  • It is advisable to prepare them with specific exercises and simulations.

Medical examination

In some competitive examinations, especially in security bodies, it is mandatory. This exam guarantees that the candidate meets the physical and health requirements to carry out their work.

  • Rule out illnesses or limitations incompatible with the position.
  • It is important to know the medical exclusions specific to each call.

Language test

In some competitions, such as those in whose function is to use a second language, this test is required. It may consist of translations, oral tests or writing texts.

By understanding all the types of competitive examinations and selection tests, you will be able to prepare yourself in the most effective way to achieve your professional goal.

What are the most difficult oppositions?
Related article:
What are the most difficult oppositions?

Add as preferred source