NYPD Entrance Exam Practice Test and Study Guide
The entrance exam for the New York City Police Department is a civil service written test scored on a 0 to 100 scale. A 70 is the minimum passing score, but hiring is competitive and based on ranking, not just passing.
The exam measures:
- Reading comprehension
- Grammar and written expression
- Memory recall
- Logical reasoning
- Situational judgment
Candidates are placed on a ranked eligibility list after scoring. Higher scores mean a lower list number and faster hiring. A score of 85 or higher is considered competitive, while 90+ is strong.
Veterans may receive 5 extra points, and disabled veterans may receive 10 extra points, significantly improving ranking.
After passing the written test, candidates must complete:
- Physical Ability Test
- Medical exam
- Psychological evaluation
- Background investigation
- Oral interview
- Drug screening
Veterans Credit Advantage
If you are a veteran, you may receive:
- 5 extra points for non-disabled veterans
- 10 extra points for disabled veterans
These points are added to your final score and can dramatically move you up the list.
Example:
- Raw score: 88
- With 5-point credit: 93
That difference can move you hundreds of positions.
4. What Is a Competitive Score?
Realistically:
- 70 to 79 = Pass but weak position
- 80 to 84 = Moderate competitiveness
- 85 to 89 = Strong
- 90+ = Very competitive
Most serious candidates aim for 85 or higher.
5. Strategic Scoring Advice
If your goal is fast academy entry:
- Target 90+
- Eliminate careless mistakes in grammar and memory sections
- Slow down on situational judgment questions. They test ethics and professionalism, not toughness
- Accuracy over speed
This exam is not about intelligence. It is about discipline and attention to detail.
