EPST (European Pilot Selection & Training) is an EASA-approved training organisation in Utrecht, the Netherlands. Its own selection is the entry route to its integrated ATPL(A) programme, with basic flight training at partner schools in Greece, Norway or Sweden, and Switzerland, followed by MCC and jet training in Utrecht. The training is taught in English. EPST also offers its COMPASS test to airlines and training organisations as a selection service.1234567

Phase 1 is individual and takes about 3 hours at the EPST centre in Utrecht, on any working day you book by phone. It includes the COMPASS pilot aptitude test, a psychometric test, an Aviation English test, a verbal reasoning test and a technical comprehension test. You get the results straight away and discuss them with EPST. Only candidates who pass Phase 1 are invited to Phase 2.13

EPST lists the COMPASS tests as Control (hand, foot and eye coordination), Slalom (hand-eye tracking), Task manager (two tasks at once), Memory, Mathematics and Orientation (instrument interpretation and spatial orientation). It adds a physics tech test, Aviation English with ATC audio messages and verbal reasoning. EPST says no flying experience is needed to do well in COMPASS. The instructions are available in British and American English and several other languages. Our COMPASS page and free COMPASS practice set cover these tests in more detail.78

Phase 2 is a full day with other candidates: a simulator test of learning capacity, coordination and dexterity, group activities and an arithmetic test. EPST compares the simulator result with your COMPASS result. Phase 3 always follows and is a fit interview with the selection team in Utrecht. A Management Review Board takes the final decision and you hear the result within five working days.3

Phases 2 and 3 together cost EUR 300, and a Phase 2 retake also costs EUR 300. If you pass, EPST refers you for the EASA medical at the Aeromedical Expert Center in Bosschenhoofd, at about EUR 425 excluding VAT, paid by you. EPST does not publish the Phase 1 price on its selection page.3

COMPASS may be retaken after 3 months, and the tech test may be retaken once after an insufficient result. If you fail Phase 2 you first complete Phase 3, and you may then practise on EPST's simulator with an instructor (two sessions of 1 hour) before the retake. After a negative final result you can ask EPST for the reasons and about a one-time retake. Phase 1 and Phase 3 results are valid for at most 1 year.13

You can take the selection from age 17 and start training from age 18; EPST advises doing it at least 2 months before your intended start. The minimum education level is a Dutch HAVO diploma with mathematics and English, or equivalent; physics is not required.1

EPST's own tips are to practise mental arithmetic daily, review basic physics, practise tests to get used to time pressure, consider a selection training course and get enough rest, and above all to be yourself. Our free practice sets below cover mental arithmetic, physics and the COMPASS-type tasks.9