Code3Press FAQ
1. What is the APCAT and how do I prepare for it?
The Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test (APCAT) is the written exam used by Alberta police services to assess problem-solving, memory, comprehension, and logic. To prepare, practice with realistic APCAT practice tests, review reading comprehension drills, and sharpen your math and observation skills. At Code3Press, we provide APCAT study guides and practice exams built by Canadian police professionals to help you pass on your first try.
Get instant access to our police exam prep membership: https://www.code3press.com/offer-page
2. How many times can you write the APCAT?
Applicants may rewrite the APCAT if they do not pass, but there are waiting periods set by Alberta police services. Failing multiple times can delay your application, so it’s always best to prepare properly before your first attempt. Using practice tests from Code3Press ensures you’re fully ready when test day arrives.
Try a free sample practice test: https://www.code3press.com/sample-test
3. What is a passing score on the APCAT?
There is no universal “pass mark,” as each agency may have different benchmarks. Generally, you must achieve a minimum competency score in each section to move forward in the recruitment process. Strong preparation is key, since higher scores increase your competitiveness.
4. What kinds of questions are on the APCAT?
The APCAT includes:
Reading comprehension passages
Math and problem-solving questions
Memory and observation recall
Logic and reasoning
Situational judgment scenarios
Practicing all five areas before your exam is essential for success.
5. How is the RCMP entrance exam different from the APCAT?
The RCMP entrance exam is national, while the APCAT is specific to Alberta. Both assess similar skills, but the RCMP exam has unique content tailored to federal policing. Code3Press provides prep for both the APCAT and RCMP exams, helping applicants across Canada.
6. What study resources are best for Canadian police exams?
The best study resources are realistic practice tests, study guides, and coaching created by Canadian police professionals. At Code3Press, our resources are designed to match actual exam content, so you train exactly how you’ll be tested.
7. What are the basic requirements to become a police officer in Canada?
While requirements vary slightly by agency, common standards include:
Minimum age of 18 or 19
Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
Valid driver’s licence
High school diploma or equivalent
No serious criminal record
Physical fitness to pass the PARE/POPAT
8. How long does it take to get hired as a police officer?
The hiring process can take anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on the agency. Steps include the entrance exam, interviews, background checks, medical exams, and training academy. Strong preparation for the written and interview stages helps shorten your timeline.
9. Do you need a university degree to join the police in Canada?
No, most agencies require only a high school diploma, though post-secondary education is an asset. Applicants with degrees or diplomas may stand out, but strong exam results and interview performance are just as important.
10. What happens if I fail my police entrance exam?
If you fail the APCAT or RCMP exam, you’ll need to wait the required period before rewriting. Multiple failures may impact your application timeline. The best approach is to train with realistic practice tests so you pass on your first attempt.
11. What is the police recruitment process like in Alberta and across Canada?
Most agencies follow these steps:
Written entrance exam (APCAT, RCMP exam, or OACP in Ontario)
Physical fitness testing (PARE, POPAT, or equivalent)
Panel interview (using STAR or situational questions)
Background investigation & psychological testing
Medical and vision screening
Training academy
12. What makes Code3Press different from other police prep websites?
Unlike generic test sites, Code3Press is built by Canadian police veterans with real experience in recruitment and training. Our practice tests, guides, and coaching are tailored to Canadian exams like the APCAT and RCMP entrance exam, giving you an edge. We use the latest technology in online test writing software that provides real world test taking simulation and provides feedback at the end of your test.
13. Do your practice tests match the real police exams?
Yes. Our practice tests are modeled after the actual APCAT, RCMP, and OACP exams. They replicate the structure, timing, and difficulty of the real tests so you walk in fully prepared.
14. Can I practice the tests more than once?
Yes! With a Code3Press membership, you can practice multiple times to build confidence, track progress, and sharpen your weak areas until you’re fully ready for test day.
15. What other training do you offer besides practice tests?
We provide:
Study guides (grammar, logic, math, situational judgment)
Interview prep (STAR method training + worksheets)
Physical training programs (PARE/POPAT fitness prep)
Coaching and mentoring from Canadian police professionals
16. How does Code3Press help with police interviews?
We offer interview prep courses and STAR interview worksheets to help you master structured police interview questions. You’ll learn how to give clear, professional answers that impress recruiters. Our Elite Prep offers a full course on how to prepare your interview from start to finish. We also provide real scoring rubrics so you will know and understand how your examples are assessed.
17. Do you offer physical training prep for PARE/POPAT?
Yes. Code3Press provides a 16-week physical training program designed to help applicants build strength, endurance, and agility to meet Canadian police fitness standards.
18. What is the hardest part of the police application process?
Many applicants struggle with the written exam and panel interview. These are areas where preparation makes all the difference. Code3Press provides targeted resources to help you succeed in both.
19. How can I improve my chances of being hired as a police officer?
Pass your entrance exam on the first try
Stay physically fit and ready for POPAT/PARE
Practice strong interview skills
Maintain integrity and professionalism throughout the process
20. What do police recruiters look for in candidates?
Recruiters look for applicants with:
Strong problem-solving and judgment skills
Clear communication
Physical fitness
Integrity and accountability
A genuine motivation to serve the community
21. What mistakes should I avoid during the police application process?
Common mistakes include:
Failing to prepare for the entrance exam
Poor fitness preparation for the PARE/POPAT
Weak or unstructured interview answers
Not disclosing information during background checks
22. How do I prepare for the police interview panel?
Prepare by practicing STAR interview answers, reviewing ethical and situational questions, and learning how to communicate clearly under pressure. Code3Press offers structured interview prep courses to give you confidence on interview day.
External links:
Alberta Police Recruiting:
Calgary Police - https://join.calgarypolice.ca/
Edmonton Police - https://joineps.ca/
RCMP Recruiting:
https://rcmp.ca/en/careers-rcmp
Ontario OACP Testing: