candidate physical ability test (cpat)

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is the nationally-recognized standard for measuring an individual’s ability to handle the physical demands of the firefighting profession.

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The Vincennes University CPAT Lab is open and available to the public, though testing sessions are limited to 3-5 candidates.

The timed test consists of (8) separate events and are designed to simulate physical activities common to firefighters.

cpat channel

upcoming test dates

Participants in the CPAT must navigate eight separate events on a closed course within a span of 10 minutes and 20 seconds.

Orientation

During the entire test, candidates wear a protective helmet, gloves, and a 50-lb weight vest, designed to simulate the weight of firefighter PPE. Candidates will be accompanied by proctors, who will call out directions for the test events, monitor the candidate's testing time, and ensure that each event is completed correctly.

Each event must be completed exactly as prescribed – if a candidate cannot physically complete any component of the test, the candidate will fail the entire test; if a candidate commits specific mistakes during any event, the candidate fails the entire test. A candidate also fails if all eight events are not completed within the 10-minute, 20-second time limit.

Schedule Your CPAT

CPAT Lab is open to the general public; however, due to ongoing concerns with COVID-19, testing sessions are limited to 3-5 candidates.

To request a specific time and date for testing, call 812-888-2871.

All CPAT participants must be at least 18 years of age and submit state-issued photo identification. CPAT tests must be scheduled online in advance -- test-day registration or rescheduling is not accepted.

CPAT Information

Test Rescheduling: Candidates may reschedule their test date up to (10) business days before official test date without penalty. Schedule changes made within (10) business days before a scheduled official CPAT will be subject to a $50 fee.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

Full refund: Cancel at least 10 business days before the scheduled test date to receive a 100% refund of the testing fee.
No refund: Cancellations made fewer than 10 business days before the scheduled test date are not eligible for a refund.
How to cancel: Cancellation requests must be submitted by email to cwhitaker@vinu.edu and must include the candidate's name, and test date.
Effective time: Refund eligibility is determined by the receipt timestamp of the cancellation request.
Processing: Approved refunds will be issued to the original payment method within 10–15 business days.
Transfer option: Instead of canceling within the 10-business-day window, candidates may request one test-date transfer (subject to availability) if requested at least 3 business days before the test; a transfer fee may apply.
No-shows: Failure to appear without a timely cancellation is treated as a cancellation within 10 business days and is non-refundable.
Exceptions: Medical or emergency exceptions may be considered with verifiable documentation; decisions are at the administrator’s discretion.
Contact: For cancellations, transfers, or appeals, contact the director at 812-888-2871.

Attendance for official tests: If you do not show up on your scheduled official test day, your testing fee is forfeited. If you want to schedule another test day, you will have to pay the full fee again.

Candidates who qualify may apply for a testing fee waiver. Interested candidates should download the application and then complete and submit with requested documentation. See application for submission instructions.

Fee Waiver Guidelines

CPAT Fees: The fee waiver can cover all testing costs which includes (2) orientations and (2) practice tests. Candidates who qualify for a fee waiver must attend at least (1) orientation and (1) practice session prior to commencing an official test.

Financial Hardship Waiver: For candidates who were awarded a fee waiver under the financial hardship guidelines, the waiver is valid for (12) months from the award date. If these candidates did not successfully complete their CPAT within that time, they must re-apply for another waiver (candidates may qualify for up to 3 waivers).

Loss of Subsequent Waivers: waiver awardees forfeit all eligibility considerations for future waivers if the awardee falls under either category:

Candidate failed to appear for the scheduled official test
Candidate did not attend at least (1) orientation and (1) practice session

A female student carrying some equipment for the equipment carrying section of the CPAT

Preparing to take CPAT

During orientation, candidates will receive instruction and coaching on test events and recommended strategies and movements to efficiently complete them. Candidates will have the opportunity to try out the CPAT testing equipment to better understand what will be required.

Participation in one or more orientation sessions is strongly encouraged. Candidates who take advantage of orientation consistently have a higher passage rate than those who do not. The two orientation sessions are included in the $135.00 testing fee.

iaff/iafc cpat orientation guide

Practice

In addition to orientation, candidates have the option to sign up for at least two (2) timed practice runs prior to the test itself. A practice test is a full-scale simulation of an official test. Like orientation, candidates who complete at least one practice test consistently pass at a higher rate.

If you choose not to participate in this pre-test program, you will be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that you are aware of the pre-test program and have declined to include it in your preparations to complete the CPAT.

Getting in Shape to Take CPAT

Like firefighting, the key to success in the CPAT is preparation.

Physical demands of the test
Training strategies
Techniques for building flexibility, strength and cardiovascular endurance
Hydration and training strategies

Test Support Services

CPAT Equipment Rental: contact VU Gibson at 812-888-2871
IAFF/IAFC CPAT Preparation Guide

Day of the Test

On test day, you will be required to show proper government-issued identification.

For the safety of candidates and proctors, a strict dress code is enforced:

Long Pants to the ankle (pockets must be emptied prior test commencement)
T-Shirt or sweatshirt
Closed-toe/heel footwear
No loose jewelry allowed

Candidates must meet the required dress code before participating in any CPAT event.

Additional Information

If you have additional questions about the CPAT, check out our CPAT FAQ. If you still have questions, contact the VU Gibson Center at 812-888-2871.

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candidate physical ability test (cpat)

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is the nationally-recognized standard for measuring an individual’s ability to handle the physical demands of the firefighting profession.

Sign Up Today!

Participants in the CPAT must navigate eight separate events on a closed course within a span of 10 minutes and 20 seconds.

Stair Climb

Hose Drag

Equipment Carry

Ladder Raise and Extension

Forcible Entry

Search

Rescue Drag

Ceiling Breach and Pull