Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
Passing the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is an admission requirement for the following Palm Beach State College programs:
- Firefighter CCP
- EMT/Firefighter Combination CCP
CPAT Overview
The job of a firefighter is a physically demanding job, requiring a high level of cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength and muscular endurance. The CPAT requires prospective firefighter students to complete critical physical tasks that simulate actual job duties on the fire ground.
The eight events in the CPAT test are:
- Stair climb
- Hose drag
- Equipment carry
- Ladder raise/extension
- Forcible entry
- Search
- Rescue
- Ceiling breach/pull
Participants must progress through the events in a continuous manner during a maximum total time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds. It is a pass/fail test.
Preparation & Registration
To get ready for the test, applicants should:
- Watch the CPAT Video Demonstration to learn how to complete each event
- Read and follow the exercise recommendations in the CPAT Preparation Guide
- Consider registering for a practice session before scheduling an official test
Registration
Applicants must register online for practice sessions or test sessions via the National Testing Network (NTN) website. Students may choose to take the test at Palm Beach State College or any location in the network. Registration closes one day prior to the test or practice date.
Fees
Registration fees are non-refundable.
- Practice Session: $55
- Testing Session: $155
Rescheduling your test date
If you wish to reschedule, you must contact NTN at least seven days in advance of your scheduled session. Call NTN Customer Service at 866-563-3882.
Test Day
- Arrival: Arrive 15 minutes early. Anyone arriving late will not be allowed to participate or test.
- What to bring: a valid photo ID
- Dress Code:
- Close-toed shoes
- Long pants (no shorts)
- Single shirt (no layers)
- No head wear
- No jewelry other than wedding rings
Location & Parking
The test is held in SCD156 on the Lake Worth campus. Applicants may park in the Blue Lot. | Campus Map
Test Results
The test is scored on a pass/fail basis. CPAT scores are valid for one year.
Submitting CPAT results from other institutions
A valid, passing CPAT result from another NTN institution or IAFF-certified training center is acceptable for prospective students applying to PBSC's firefighter or EMT/firefighter combo programs.
Applicants are responsible for attaching their test results directly to their limited-access program application.