| Frequently asked questions |
| Since I started my website I have received many e-mails from applicants and people all over the world. I seem to be answering the same questions over and over so I decided my website needed a faq section. So here it is. As I get more questions I will update this page :-) |
| What was the RPAT like? The RPAT or RCMP aptitude test was hard. The test was broken up into three parts. The first part I was handed a book. It was filled with a bunch of info. You had 5 min to pick out the important info and commit it to memory. The second part of the test was filled with an hour of general questions including math, spelling. Then the third book started off with questions on the first book. It was tough but not impossible. |
| What can I do to prepare for the RPAT? I found that the test on the RCMP website was helpful. I also bought a book called "Barron's Police Officer Exam" It was full of tips and questions with practice exams. I found it to be quite helpful. I knew that my basic math was a little rusty so I went to the library and took out a few books on grade 8 math. Basic long divison and fractions. Stuff that I hadn't done since school. No calculators allowed in the test so I practiced. The NYPD website also had a couple of pracitce tests that were fun to do. |
| How long did it take for you to get your RPAT mark? I wrote in June 2001 and got my mark in Sept 2001. I received my pkg in November. |
| How do I know if my score is good enough for the Draft? Thats a tough question. If you scored over 4.2 you probably have a good chance. Anything less and it depends on a lot of factors. Where you live, your gender, your race. For example a pass on the test is 3.2 out of 5. But in order to make the draft a white male in BC in 2001 had to score 3.7. I squeaked by with a 3.75. I have been told that with the RCMP implementing their new hiring strategy that the RPAT scores may not need to be so high. |
| What can you tell me about the interview? Well, not much legally. Like the RPAT I can not discuss specific questions. I also don't want to jeopardize my chances of getting in so I will keep the info as general as I can. Even if I could give out some questions they are based on you and your past. The way you answer the questions and the way you handle yourself in the interview is a big factor. |
| How did you prepare for the interview? Other than dealing with loads of stress that I put on myself. I read a few books on interiews. "Sweaty palms" was a good one. I also used my spare time to think of any questions that I might get asked and then I tried to come up with answers. I tried to use the layout set out on the RCMP website. The interview guide that they have is very accurate on how the interview will go. Try to use the S.T.A.R principle. |
| Are there any courses that I can take while I wait through this process? I have been told that they will teach you everything you need to know at Depot. If you have your first aid course and some community involvment under your belt before your interview it will up your chances. |
| What kinds of things can I do that might be helpful before I get to the intervew? Things that I have found out that score big with the interviewers are volunteering and community involvment. Join a club and be involved. |