Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the next CPAT testing session at the University of Waterloo?

Information regarding upcoming testing dates at UW Fitness can be found under the Upcoming Test Dates section. Testing occurs on an as needed basis when fire departments are hiring, but due to strict licensing procedures, we cannot arrange testing on short notice as candidates must be given an opportunity to attend Orientations and Time Trials starting within 8 weeks prior to the actual CPAT. Hence, we must be given at least 3 months notice before a hiring in order to set up appropriate time frames for testing.

2. What is CPAT Orientation?

The CPAT Orientation is an information and practice session intended to provide the candidate an overview of the actual test. With a better understanding of the nature of the test, you can use the upcoming weeks to prepare physically to take the test. During orientation you will be given the opportunity to view the CPAT events, talk with instructors, physically examine test equipment, tools and props and practice individual events.

3. What is the difference between Timed Trials and the actual CPAT?

At our test facility, the Timed Trials are conducted exactly as the official CPAT with verbatim instructions being read and protocol being followed exactly. The only difference with the Timed Trials will be that if a candidate fails any event or runs out of time, they will be allowed to attempt/complete the rest of the test events for practice purposes but will obviously not be able to get a pass on the CPAT. On days set for official CPAT (rather than Timed Trials), if a candidate fails any event or runs out of time, they are not allowed to continue. Timed Trials are set up with the purpose of giving individuals more than one opportunity to pass the CPAT.

4. Is it mandatory to do Orientation(s) and Timed Trial(s) before taking the CPAT?

Applicants who have never completed the CPAT are strongly encouraged to participate in scheduled training opportunities prior to their CPAT date as increasing your familiarity with the eight tasks will only improve your chance for successful completion of the test. If a candidate does not complete all 4 training opportunities (2 Orientations and 2 Timed Trials), they must sign a waiver prior to attempting the CPAT that acknowledges that the practice sessions were made available to them and that they voluntarily waived the opportunity to participate in all sessions. See "Upcoming Test Dates" page for dates available for all Orientations and Timed Trials. See "Register" page for costs associated with Orientations and Timed Trials.

5. Is advance registration required for taking CPAT

Yes, please contact UW Fitness to register for upcoming CPAT dates or register online.

6. When a candidate passes the CPAT, how long is the certificate valid?

The CPAT certificate issued by UW Fitness is valid for 1 year from the date of successful completion of the test.

7. What is the cost of taking the CPAT?

Each Orientation is $40. Each Timed Trial or CPAT is $200.

8. Is vision and hearing testing included in the CPAT test?

No, vision and hearing testing are not part of CPAT. Individual fire departments are responsible for setting their own vision and hearing requirements and will have to arrange for this testing in conjunction with medical examinations upon offer of employment.

aFire Fighter Testing

Frequently Asked Questions