What are the types of civil service examinations?
Each test announcement indicates the type of examination to be given. All examinations assess knowledges, skills and/or abilities needed to perform the job. The four most frequently used types of examinations are listed below. Other types may be used; they are described on the test announcement. Some announcements consist of more than one type of examination, such as a rating of experience and training and an oral test. Experience and Training (E&T) Ratings: You provide your experience and training information on an application and/or application supplement. Your score is based on the information you provide. Computer Administered Tests: You take a test on a computer in a test center. These tests can include multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank or essay questions. On-screen instructions guide you through the examination process. Oral Tests: You respond to a series of structured questions and your responses are rated on specific factors. Typically, you appear before a panel of trained exa
