Assessments
Stage One – Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™
The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ (FACT™) is used for the entry-level firefighter recruitment process and consists of a variety of sub-tests designed to measure critical constructs required for successful job performance as a firefighter. The components of this test have been developed and validated by firefighters and fire captains who have experience performing the essential functions of the firefighter job. Each construct measured by this test has been carefully linked to a national job description and identified as a critical skill or ability necessary for performance of the job.
The entry-level firefighter written test consists of two sections: a general aptitude test and a personal characteristics section. The FACT™ consists of 110 multiple-choice test items. The FACT™ is weighted: 45% aptitude measures and 55% character measures.
The constructs measured by the FACT™ include:
- Reading Ability (15 total test items)
- Mathematical Reasoning (15 total test items)
- Map Reading (10 total test items)
- Writing Ability (10 total test items)
- Personal Characteristics—to include: interpersonal skills, teamwork, commitment, honesty, integrity, emotional stability (60 total test items)
Candidate Registration
The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ is completed in a proctored classroom environment in a computer lab. You have a maximum of three hours to complete the test. If you do not pass the Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ you may re-take it after fifteen days if it’s your first attempt or thirty days on all subsequent attempts. An orientation guide can be purchased to assist you in preparation for this test. The FACT test results are pass or fail. You will not find out your result on the day of your assessment. If you are successful on your Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™, your certificate will be uploaded to your OFAI account within three business days. This test is valid for a period of 24 months. Candidates are not given feedback regarding the results of the test.
Candidates will not receive a mark. In addition, municipal fire services are not given results.
Cost: $75.00 plus HST
Pre-Assessment Guide: Download
Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ Candidate Orientation Guide
Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ Candidate Orientation Guide
All the constructs measured by the Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ are based upon basic skills and abilities that a minimally qualified applicant should possess. There are a variety of preparatory publications available that may be helpful to those candidates who could use a refresher in basic reading, math skills, map reading, writing ability, and human relations skills. We cannot endorse any national publication in terms of preparing for this test that was not created by FPSI. The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ Orientation Guide is an entry-level firefighter practice test that will determine how prepared you are to pass the actual FACT. This test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions.
You can order the orientation guide through FPSI by clicking on the following link: https://www.fpsi.com/product/fact-orientation-guide/
The orientation guide can also be purchased in Canadian-French: https://www.fpsi.com/product/cf-fact-guide/
The cost of the orientation guide is $15.00US.
This Orientation Guide is property of FPSI and any questions or concerns must be directed to FPSI at (888) 990-FIRE(3473) or info@fpsi.com.
Accommodations
If you have a disability within the definitions of the Ontario Human Rights Code and need to request testing accommodations for the Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™, please contact the OFAI administration office at info@ofai.ca at least 6-8 weeks before you plan on testing to obtain the accommodation request forms.
