Testing conditions
Soundproof booth assessment
Candidates indicate sounds at different decibel levels and frequencies while each ear is tested separately using calibrated equipment.
Stage Two Assessment
Hearing Assessment
Candidates complete the Stage Two Hearing Assessment in a soundproof booth and must meet OFAI hearing standards without the use of assistive hearing devices.
Both ears are tested at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz using calibrated audiometric equipment.
Candidates are tested inside a soundproof booth and must indicate a variety of sounds at different decibels and frequencies. Both ears are tested at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz when the audiometric device is calibrated to ANSI Z24.5.
Devices to assist hearing are not permitted.
Stage Two at a glance
Hearing standards candidates must meet
This section summarizes the OFAI hearing test standard and the follow-up process candidates need to know before attending the assessment.
Pass standard
No greater than 40 dB unaided
Permitted hearing loss is no greater than 40 decibels, unaided, in either ear at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz.
Failure threshold
Greater than 40 dB at each tone
Hearing loss greater than 40 decibels at each tested tone in either ear is considered a failure.
Assistive devices
Not permitted during testing
Devices used to assist hearing are not permitted during the hearing assessment.
Inconclusive results
Professional referral may be required
If results are inconclusive, log into your OFAI account, open Support, and submit a ticket to request the referral form needed for professional follow-up.
Referral deadline
15 business days
Completed referral forms must be returned to the OFAI Administration office no later than 15 business days following the original assessment.
Assessment outcome
What happens after your hearing test
Most candidates receive a straightforward pass or fail determination based on the OFAI unaided hearing standard. In some cases, further documentation is required.
Outcome pathways
Meets standard
If your unaided hearing falls within the OFAI threshold, you pass the hearing assessment and may continue in the testing pathway.
Inconclusive result
If your result is inconclusive, you must contact OFAI to obtain a referral form for review by an applicable professional.
Professional confirmation
If the professional indicates you meet the testing standard, your hearing assessment is recorded as a pass.
Does not meet standard
If the professional indicates you do not meet the standard, the hearing assessment is recorded as a fail and you cannot proceed with further testing.