The New Hampshire Fire Commission mandates entrance testing. It consists of three separate events, all of which have to be passed within 26 month period. Many departments actually look for candidates who have passed all three events. The three Entrance Testing events include:

Written Exam: This exam is selected from one of several written test companies. There are many types and styles to written exams, therefore please read the application carefully in order to determine the type offered. Some exams come with test preparation manuals that should or must be read to give the candidate the best chance to obtain a passing grade. The exam is not based on firefighting skills or knowledge.

Acrophobia Test: This portion of the test will not be included in the 2008 State Entrance Test. The Test is administered by climbing (on belay) a 100-foot aerial, set between 65-75 degrees. The candidate must climb up and down the aerial without stopping for more than a total of 30 seconds.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT): This test is held on a separate date and has been held at the NH National Guard Armory in Manchester, NH, on Canal Street. There are two guides that provides the candidate information on how to physically prepare for the event. The guides are CPAT Orientation Guide  and CPAT Preparation Guide.

The application process starts with advertisement in nine newspapers that cover all of New Hampshire and parts of Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine.

The application process has two parts: An application page with payment to send in; and a physician release statement that also must be returned to the NH Fire Academy. Each has a posted deadline that must be adhered to in order for us to plan and schedule the event.

Application window has closed - 2008 Entrance Test Application Packet - Deadline April 4, 2008.

2008 Test Preperation Manual Order Form

Frequently Asked Questions about State Entrance Testing.

Please refer to the Documents & Forms section of this web site for a complete listing of all publications.

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