Format
110 multiple-choice items
The FACT™ is weighted 45% aptitude and 55% character, combining a general aptitude section with a personal characteristics section.
Stage One Assessment
Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ (FACT™)
The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ (FACT™) is the Stage One written assessment used in entry-level firefighter recruitment to measure aptitude and personal characteristics linked to successful firefighter performance.
Candidates complete the FACT™ in a proctored computer lab environment. Results are issued as pass or fail, with successful certificates uploaded to OFAI within three business days.
The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ (FACT™) is used in entry-level firefighter recruitment and includes subtests designed to measure constructs associated with successful firefighter job performance.
The components of the FACT™ were developed and validated by firefighters and fire captains with direct experience performing the essential functions of the job. Each construct has been linked to a national firefighter job description and identified as a critical skill or ability necessary for performance.
The written assessment consists of two sections: a general aptitude test and a personal characteristics section.
Stage One at a glance
Key FACT™ details before you book
This section summarizes the operational details candidates most often need when planning the Stage One written assessment.
Testing time
Up to three hours
The assessment is completed in a proctored classroom setting in a computer lab.
Retesting
15 or 30 day wait period
If you do not pass, you may retake the FACT™ after 15 days on your first failed attempt or 30 days on all subsequent attempts.
Results
Pass / fail only
Candidates do not receive a mark, and municipal fire services are not given results.
Certificate timing
Uploaded within three business days
If successful, your FACT™ certificate is uploaded to your OFAI account within three business days and remains valid for 24 months.
Fee
$75.00 plus HST
Preparation support is available through the Pre-Assessment Guides.
FACT constructs
What the FACT™ measures
The Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ (FACT™) evaluates the foundational skills and personal characteristics expected of a minimally qualified applicant entering the recruitment process.
Constructs measured
Reading Ability
15 items measuring the ability to interpret, understand, and apply written information.
Mathematical Reasoning
15 items focused on practical reasoning and calculation skills expected of minimally qualified candidates.
Map Reading
10 items assessing route interpretation, directional understanding, and visual-spatial decision making.
Writing Ability
10 items covering written communication fundamentals relevant to firefighter job performance.
Personal Characteristics
60 items measuring interpersonal skills, teamwork, commitment, honesty, integrity, and emotional stability.
Orientation guide and accommodations
All constructs measured by the Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test™ are based upon basic skills and abilities that a minimally qualified applicant should possess. Candidates who want extra preparation can use the official FPSI orientation guide, which functions as an entry-level firefighter practice test with 40 multiple-choice questions.
The orientation guide and Canadian-French version are available directly through FPSI.
For current pricing, ordering, and guide-related questions, please contact FPSI directly at info@fpsi.com or (888) 990-FIRE (3473).
Accommodations
If you require testing accommodations for the FACT™, create or access your OFAI account, open Support, and submit an accommodation request ticket at least 6 to 8 weeks before your planned test date.