Our exclusive Irish Civil Service Third Secretary PrepPack gives you everything you need to ace the online assessments, with targeted practice for verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and situational judgement.

Inside Our Third Secretary PrepPack

To ensure you're fully prepared, our Third Secretary PrepPack includes everything you need to succeed in the online assessments, with targeted practice for both the SOVA-delivered assessments and additional AON-style preparation.

24 Verbal Reasoning Simulations & Practice Tests: Build speed and accuracy with 10 verbal reasoning simulations and 14 additional practice tests, all in the True/False/Cannot Say format.
14 Numerical Reasoning Simulations & Practice Tests: Sharpen your ability to interpret tables and charts under pressure with 3 numerical simulations and 11 additional practice tests.
19 Situational Judgement Simulations & Extra Practice Tests: Develop your judgement and decision-making with 3 SJT simulations reflecting the real Third Secretary assessment format, plus 16 additional practice questions.
4 Logical Thinking Practice Tests: Additional logical thinking practice to further strengthen your overall cognitive performance ahead of the assessments.
14 In-Depth Study Guides & Video Tutorials: Benefit from 10 expert study guides and 4 video tutorials covering verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and situational judgement strategies, giving you the knowledge and confidence to approach every section with clarity.

With realistic simulations, expert study guides, and video tutorials across every section, our JobTestPrep Third Secretary PrepPack gives you the knowledge, practice, and confidence to perform at your best when it matters most.

Get everything you need to succeed with 40+ practice tests, expert study guides, and video tutorials, designed to reflect the real assessments.

What Is The Third Secretary Online Assessment?

The Third Secretary online assessment is used during the recruitment process to determine whether candidates have what it takes to analyse complex information, interpret data under pressure, and make sound judgements in demanding diplomatic scenarios.

It consists of three components: a verbal reasoning test, a numerical reasoning test, and a situational judgement test tailored specifically to the Third Secretary role.

Let's explore each part of the assessment in more detail.

What Is The Third Secretary Verbal Reasoning Test?

The Third Secretary Verbal Reasoning Test presents candidates with a series of written passages, each followed by a number of statements.

Your task is to determine, based solely on the information provided, whether each statement is true, false, or whether there is insufficient information to say either way.

The test consists of 15 questions and, while there is no set time limit, your response time is recorded and contributes to your overall score. The assessment uses adaptive technology, meaning questions will get progressively easier or harder based on your performance as you go.

Verbal reasoning tests of this type measure your ability to read carefully, draw accurate inferences, and avoid assumptions, all critical skills for a role that involves analysing reports, drafting policy briefs, and liaising across government.

⭐️ Golden Tip: Work quickly but don't rush. Since both accuracy and speed factor into your score, the goal is to find a confident rhythm. Avoid lingering too long on any single question, and always base your answers strictly on the passage, never on prior knowledge.

Read the text below and then answer the question that follows.

In the past few years, the government has turned to shock tactics to fight the battle against smoking and the burden smokers pose to the country's economy, manifested in sick days and health issues. The latest anti-smoking campaign showed tumours growing from a cigarette. Needless to say, this advert was contentious. On the one hand, the advert has become a viral sensation since its launch and has attracted plenty of attention to the subject. The government estimates approximately 300,000 people will attempt to quit smoking because of the campaign. On the other hand, some argue that using a hard-hitting approach is not the best way because people become very afraid. If someone thinks they might have cancer or a symptom of cancer, they're likely to push it out of their mind. Health experts claim the new campaign is not effective in targeting all smokers and recommend using it alongside other measures.

Statement: The advertisement is not effective because it scares people.

What is the truth value of the statement based on the text?

A) True
B) False
C) Cannot say

Choose your answer before looking at the explanation below.

The correct answer is C): Cannot say

The passage presents two opposite approaches of pros and cons to the anti-smoking campaign. The opinions presented are not addressed as absolute truths; therefore, it cannot be determined whether the advertisement is effective.

The passage states: "Some argue that using a hard-hitting approach is not the best way because people become very afraid". The opinion of "some" cannot be used as a generalisation.

Thus, you cannot say whether the argument is true or false.

What Is The Third Secretary Numerical Reasoning Test?

The Third Secretary Numerical Reasoning Test presents candidates with a series of tables and charts containing numerical data.

The test is structured into 5 blocks of information, with 3 questions per block, giving 15 questions in total. Your task is to interpret and analyse the data presented in order to select the correct answer from the options provided.

Like the verbal reasoning test, there is no set time limit, but your response time is recorded and contributes to your score. The assessment also uses adaptive technology, adjusting the difficulty of questions based on your cumulative performance. A handheld calculator, pen, and paper are permitted, but, notably, mobile phone calculators are not allowed.

It's worth noting that the numerical reasoning test acts as a qualifier only, meaning you must reach a minimum passing standard, but your score will not contribute to your final ranking.

Numerical reasoning tests of this type measure your ability to work accurately with data, identify trends, and draw logical conclusions from numerical information, skills that are central to budget management, programme reporting, and evidence-based decision making in the role.

⭐️ Golden Tip: Don't get caught out by charts where exact figures aren't visible. Often, you'll only need approximate values and the answer options are designed to reflect this. Focus on selecting the most reasonable answer rather than searching for precision that isn't there.

Look at the below dataset and answer the question that follows.

	Successfully Delivered Newspapers (excluding lost) Per Day	Percent of Newspaper Lost During Delivery	Number of Couriers Working Annually
London	12,504	5%	758
Sydney	7,704	11%	321
Paris	8,007	13%	569
New York	15,600	6%	358
Milan	3,069	8%	259

What would Sydney’s lost rate have to be to match the number of successful deliveries in Paris (excluding lost papers) per day?

A) 5%
B) 7.5%
C) 10%
D) 12.5%
E) They will never match

Choose your answer before looking at the explanation below.

The correct answer is B): 7.5%

With a loss rate of 11%, the 7,704 newspapers that are successfully delivered in Sydney make up 89% of the total newspapers delivered (100% -11%). In Paris, 8,007 newspapers are delivered successfully.

Therefore, find the percentage of successful deliveries 8,007 newspapers would be in Sydney, using the rule of 3:

7,704 -> 89%
8,007 -> x
x = (8,007*89%)/7,704 = 92.5%

Therefore, 8,007 successfully delivered newspapers in Sydney constitute 92.5% of all delivered newspaper. Hence, Sydney’s lost rate of newspapers = 100% - 92.5% = 7.5%

Another way for solving this question:

With a loss rate of 11%, the 7,704 newspapers that are successfully delivered in Sydney make up 89% of the total newspapers delivered (100% -11%).

The total number of deliveries in Sydney (including lost papers) is (7,704 × 100) / 89 = 8,656

In Paris, 8,007 newspapers are delivered successfully.

To calculate the percentage, we have to deduct from 8,656 to receive 8,007.

(The total number of successfully delivered newspapers in Paris x 100) / the total number of newspapers delivered in Sydney (including lost papers) = (8007 x 100) / 8656 = 92.5% of Sydney’s newspapers have to be delivered successfully to match Paris’s successful delivery rate.

The rate of lost papers is therefore 100 – 92.5 = 7.5% (in comparison with the current existing 11% lost paper rate).

This means the correct answer is B.

The online assessments are typically the first stage of the Third Secretary selection process, but candidates who perform well can expect to be invited to further stages, which have previously included a video interview and assessment centre activities.

The interview stage is where candidates get the opportunity to bring their application to life. It's a chance to demonstrate the resourcefulness, organisational ability, and flexibility that the role demands.

Like any competitive interview, preparation makes a significant difference.

The Public Appointments Service recommends that candidates:

Research the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and understand its work
Familiarise themselves with the skills and qualities required for the Third Secretary role
Reflect on their own strengths and how these align with the role
Prepare concrete examples and experiences that demonstrate relevant competencies
Consider why their background makes them a strong candidate
Practice their answers with a friend or colleague to build confidence

As with the online assessments, the exact format and stages of the process can vary between competitions, and it's worth checking your Competition Information Booklet for the most up-to-date information on what to expect.

⭐️Good to Know: The Third Secretary assessments have not always used the same test provider. Earlier competitions used AON's Assessment Solutions (formerly known as Cut-e), while more recent competitions have moved to the SOVA Assessment platform. Our PrepPack includes practice material for both, so you're covered regardless of which format you encounter. For candidates progressing to later stages, we also offer an AI-Driven Interview Prep tool as an add-on, designed to help you practise and refine your interview technique.

Our PrepPack includes SOVA-style and AON practice materials, as well as additional practice drills, study guides, and video tutorials, so you're prepared no matter what comes your way.

What Is A Development Specialist Officer (DSO)?

Recruited alongside the Third Secretary in the same competition, the Development Specialist Officer is a related but distinct role within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Where the Third Secretary is a generalist diplomatic role, the DSO is more technical in nature, focused on providing specialist support for Ireland's international development programmes, most notably Irish Aid, the Government's overseas development initiative.

Day-to-day responsibilities include supporting the implementation of development programmes, liaising with embassies and missions abroad, and contributing to Ireland's broader foreign policy objectives in areas such as humanitarian assistance and sustainable development. Like the Third Secretary, the role involves travel and extended periods working abroad across Ireland's global network of missions.

Importantly for candidates, both roles share the same Stage 1 online assessments, meaning our Third Secretary PrepPack is equally relevant preparation whether you're applying for the Third Secretary or Development Specialist Officer position.

What Skills Do You Need to Become A Third Secretary?

The Ireland Third Secretary role is open to graduates of all disciplines, but the selection process is designed to identify candidates with a specific set of qualities that go beyond academic achievement.

To succeed in the competition - and in the role itself - candidates should be able to demonstrate the following:

Analytical ability: Third Secretaries are expected to produce thorough evaluations of complex situations and translate them into clear, actionable recommendations. Strong reading comprehension and numerical literacy are essential.
Communication and collaboration: From drafting briefing material for Ministers to liaising with embassies and government departments, the role demands clear, precise, and professional communication at all levels.
Adaptability and resilience: With postings to diverse locations around the world, including challenging regions, candidates must be comfortable working in unfamiliar environments and navigating unexpected situations with composure.
Commitment to foreign languages: While fluency in a second language is not always a formal requirement, a willingness to learn and work in foreign languages is considered a significant asset throughout a diplomatic career.
Organisational ability: Third Secretaries manage a wide range of responsibilities simultaneously, from budget oversight to high-level diplomatic visits, making strong organisational skills a must.

The good news is that many of these skills are directly assessed in the Stage 1 online assessments, making thorough preparation not just useful for passing the test, but genuinely reflective of what the role demands.

What Is The Third Secretary Capability Framework?

The Third Secretary Capability Framework is the set of core competencies that underpins the entire selection process, from the online assessments to the interview stages. It defines the behaviours, skills, and qualities that candidates are expected to demonstrate in the role, and it informs how candidates are assessed at every stage of the competition.

irish civil service third secretary capability framework

The framework is built around four capability dimensions:

Building Future Readiness: The ability to embrace change, adopt new approaches, and continuously develop skills to meet the evolving demands of a modern diplomatic service. This includes digital literacy, openness to innovation, and a commitment to ongoing learning.
Evidence-Informed Delivery: The ability to gather, analyse, and interpret information to make well-reasoned judgements and deliver high-quality outcomes. This is directly reflected in the verbal and numerical reasoning assessments at Stage 1.
Leading & Empowering: The ability to take initiative, support colleagues, and contribute positively to a team, even at an early career stage. Third Secretaries are expected to show leadership potential from the outset.
Communicating & Collaborating: The ability to communicate clearly and professionally across a wide range of audiences and contexts, and to build effective working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and foreign counterparts.

Understanding the Capability Framework is valuable not just for the assessments, but for every stage of the Third Secretary competition. Candidates who familiarise themselves with these four dimensions will be better placed to demonstrate the right behaviours throughout the process.

How To Prepare For The Third Secretary Competition

The Third Secretary competition is one of the most competitive in the Irish Civil Service, with thousands of candidates vying for a small number of places.

Preparation is what separates successful candidates from the rest, and it starts well before the assessment window opens.

Know the role: Familiarise yourself with the work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the responsibilities of a Third Secretary, and the four dimensions of the Capability Framework. The more clearly you understand what the role demands, the better equipped you'll be to demonstrate it throughout the process.
Practice the assessments: The Stage 1 online assessments are the first and most significant hurdle. Verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and situational judgement are all practicable skills that improve meaningfully with targeted preparation. Candidates who practise under realistic conditions consistently perform better than those who go in cold.
Work on speed and accuracy: Both the verbal and numerical reasoning assessments record your response time alongside your accuracy. Getting comfortable working quickly and confidently under pressure is essential.
Prepare for the interview: Candidates who progress beyond Stage 1 will face further assessment stages, including an interview. Prepare concrete examples from your own experience that demonstrate the four capability dimensions, and practise articulating them clearly and concisely.

Our Irish Civil Service Third Secretary PrepPack is designed to give you the best possible preparation for the online assessments, with realistic practice tests for verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and situational judgement, detailed answer explanations, and expert guidance to help you perform at your best when it matters most.

With thousands of candidates competing for a small number of places, preparation is what sets successful candidates apart. Get instant access to targeted practice tests across all three assessments and give yourself the best possible chance.

A Third Secretary in Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is an entry-level diplomat responsible for a broad range of functions. These include conducting analysis and research, organising and reporting on meetings, liaising with embassies, consulates, and government agencies, and ensuring the continuity of consular services for Irish citizens abroad.

The Third Secretary role is paid on a Civil Service salary scale, with starting salaries generally in the low-to-mid €30,000s, rising incrementally with experience and progression.

The Third Secretary selection process is run by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) and typically takes place across several stages, though the exact structure can vary between competitions.

Most competitions begin with an online application form, where candidates provide details of their experience and qualifications. Shortlisted candidates are then invited to complete online psychometric assessments, which generally include verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and a situational judgement test (SJT) tailored to the Third Secretary role.

Candidates who progress may then be invited to a video interview, before the final stage, an assessment centre, which can include written exercises, group tasks, and competency-based interviews.

Not all stages appear in every competition, and the order or format may differ.

The full process for any given competition will be outlined in the Competition Information Booklet, published on publicjobs.ie when the role is advertised.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Third Secretary role is the expectation to serve abroad. Postings to Irish embassies, consulates, and missions are a core part of a diplomatic career, with Third Secretaries typically dividing their time between department headquarters in Dublin and postings abroad, often rotating every few years.

Ireland's diplomatic network has grown significantly in recent years, with more than 90 missions across over 70 countries worldwide, and that number continues to grow. As a Third Secretary, you could find yourself posted anywhere from major world capitals to smaller, more challenging regions, representing Ireland's interests across a remarkably broad range of contexts.

The scope of the work abroad is equally varied. Responsibilities can range from organising high-level government visits and promoting Irish trade and investment, to managing mission budgets, supporting development programmes, and providing consular assistance to Irish citizens in difficulty.

For this reason, the department looks for candidates who are not just academically capable, but genuinely adaptable, resilient, and open to building a career that takes them across the globe.

The Third Secretary online assessments are widely considered to be among the more demanding in the Irish Civil Service. The verbal and numerical reasoning tests use adaptive technology, meaning the difficulty adjusts in real time based on your performance, and both speed and accuracy contribute to your score. The situational judgement test adds a further layer of complexity, requiring candidates to make nuanced judgements across diplomatic scenarios under a strict time limit. With thousands of candidates competing for a small number of places, the standard is high, and preparation makes a significant difference.

The Third Secretary competition doesn't run on a fixed annual cycle. It's typically advertised every few years, depending on the staffing needs of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Competitions were held in 2018, 2022, 2024, and 2026, suggesting an increasing frequency in recent years as Ireland's diplomatic network continues to expand.

The Third Secretary competition is open to graduates of all disciplines, provided they hold a degree at Level 7 or above on the National Framework of Qualifications. Candidates must also be citizens of the EU or have the right to work in Ireland, and must be prepared to accept postings abroad as a condition of service. Specific eligibility requirements can vary between competitions, so candidates should always refer to the Competition Information Booklet for the exact criteria.

Third Secretary is the entry grade of Ireland's diplomatic service and the first step on a long-term career path within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. With experience and strong performance, Third Secretaries can progress to First Secretary, then Counsellor, and ultimately to senior roles including Ambassador and Permanent Representative to international bodies such as the United Nations and the European Union. It's one of the few roles in the Irish Civil Service that offers a genuinely international career trajectory from the very first day.

JobTestPrep has been at the forefront of assessment preparation since 1992. Founded by David Meshulam, we've spent over 30 years earning the trust of candidates and establishing ourselves as a leading name in psychometric test prep. Our materials are crafted by specialist practitioners and kept up to date through ongoing candidate feedback, so they always reflect real, current test formats. Across more than 220 courses and over a million successful candidates, we combine expert-developed PrepPacks with AI-powered tools, including a CV analyser and Interview Prep platform, to support job seekers at every stage.

Maya Strauss, Psychometric Test Developer at JobTestPrep
Hi, I’m Maya Strauss. With a B.A. in Psychology and extensive experience in education and content development, I specialise in gamified assessments like Arctic Shores and Pymetrics. At JobTestPrep, I create test questions and provide expert tips to help candidates perform their best. Have a question? Contact me at:

ask_the_team@jobtestprep.co.uk

If you're preparing for Irish Civil Service tests, you might find these other resources helpful:

Also check out all our other preparation opportunities and ample information in our Irish Civil Service guide.

Irish Civil Service Third Secretary Online Assessment Preparation (2026)

Inside Our Third Secretary PrepPack

Ace Your Third Secretary Assessment

What Is The Third Secretary Online Assessment?

What Is The Third Secretary Verbal Reasoning Test?

What Is The Third Secretary Numerical Reasoning Test?

What Is The Third Secretary Situational Judgement Test?

Get Full Third Secretary Prep

What Is A Development Specialist Officer (DSO)?

What Skills Do You Need to Become A Third Secretary?

What Is The Third Secretary Capability Framework?

How To Prepare For The Third Secretary Competition

Don't Leave Your Third Secretary Preparation to Chance

FAQs

Who Are We?

More On Civil Service Ireland

Irish Civil Service Third Secretary Online Assessment Preparation (2026)

Inside Our Third Secretary PrepPack

Ace Your Third Secretary Assessment

What Is The Third Secretary Online Assessment?

What Is The Third Secretary Verbal Reasoning Test?

View Sample Question

View Answer & Explanation

What Is The Third Secretary Numerical Reasoning Test?

View Sample Question

View Answer & Explanation

What Is The Third Secretary Situational Judgement Test?

Get Full Third Secretary Prep

What Is A Development Specialist Officer (DSO)?

What Skills Do You Need to Become A Third Secretary?

What Is The Third Secretary Capability Framework?

How To Prepare For The Third Secretary Competition

Don't Leave Your Third Secretary Preparation to Chance

FAQs

What does a Third Secretary do?

What is a Third Secretary's salary in Ireland?

What are the stages of the Third Secretary hiring process?

Is it likely that a Third Secretary will work abroad?

How hard is the Third Secretary test?

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Who is eligible to apply for the Third Secretary competition in Ireland?

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