The Neuro-Psychiatric Examination tests the mental stability, adaptability and
psychological functioning of applicants before they are being recruited into
service. The purpose of the exam is to filter applicants if they are really suitable
for the uniformed services of the government. It is one of the most decisive
parts of the recruitment process in the PNP, BFP, BJMP, BuCor and all the
branches of the AFP. In fact, only 25% of the applicants pass the Neuro-
Psychiatric exam, making it the most dreaded part of the application process.
The Neuro-Psychiatric Exam is comprised of two parts- the written and the
personal interview. It includes a 35-item Aptitude (Adaptation) Test, Guilford
Zimmerman Temperament Survey, Applicant Risk Profiler, The Industrial
Sentence Completion Test, Work Environment Preference Schedule
(WEPS), Hand Test, and the “Drawing”. Sounds scary, right? Well, here are
some tips and pieces of advice to help you pass this crucial part of your
application. Please read on.
6 Important Tips to Pass the Neuro-Psychiatric Exam
Are you still searching for ways on how to successfully hurdle this important
part of your application? Check these important tips on how to pass the Neuro-
Psychiatric Exam like a boss.
1. Follow instructions
In every exam, following the instructions is as important as knowing the right
answer to every question. Knowing how to follow instructions is a good indicator
that you will be a good policeman, fireman, jail officer, or a soldier as these
services require utmost compliance to instructions. When you are told to write
your name in block capitals, do it exactly as you are told.
2. Manage your time during the exam
Like what I’ve said earlier, the Aptitude or what we call the IQ test is composed
of 35 questions. You have to answer all these questions in only 15 minutes.
That means you only have about two minutes to answer each item. The
proctors are strict regarding the time limit so never think that they will give you
time extension. The trick is to answer the easy questions first then go back to
difficult items in case you still have time. This way, you can maximize the time
and increase your chances of completing the test.
3. Be consistent with your answers
Be mindful of your answers in every question of the exam. Always remember
your answer in a particular question because you will be asked similar and
related questions in the next following items. You have to be always consistent
with your answers. Inconsistent answers may indicate that you are untruthful
and just telling lies.
4. Learn how to draw
When I say learn how to draw, it does not mean you have to be like
Michaelangelo or Da Vinci. If you are told to draw people, do not draw stick
figures. Draw people with complete parts like ears, eyes, hairs, fingers, and the
likes. Draw them with happy faces. Make evident distinctions between males
and females e.g., mustache for males and long hair for females. After that, you
describe each drawing or make a story of it in 4-5 sentences. Some of the
concepts included here are tricky, and everything being drawn could mean
something to the psychologists, therefore, be careful.
5. Hone your English skills
Sometimes, the exam may include essay exercises. The purpose is to evaluate
the incident reporting skills of the applicants. Practice your English writing skills,
be precise and pay attention to the grammar rules.
6. Prepare for the interview
The final part of the exam is the one-on-one interview with a psychologist to
assess how you will present yourself under pressure. Answer all the questions
with wit, consistency, and fluency. Do not make unnecessary body and hand
movements or gestures during the interview. Be snappy and stand firm when
talking. Lastly, always be humble.
To wrap it up
The neuro-psychiatric test wants to know if you have a mindset of an average
person. Do not pretend that you are an extraordinary one and just be yourself.
Be consistent on your answers, bring out the good in yourself and do not show
any violence in your words. Lastly, never leave anything unanswered. Those
unanswered questions might determine the result of the neuro-psych either you
are RECOMMENDED or NOT RECOMMENDED. Good luck and may the odds be in
your favor
