Testing Process

The entry level testing process consists of the following components:

1. POST (Police Officer Selection Test)
   This is a written test required by the State of Iowa. It consists of four sections that measures math, grammar, reading, and writing skills. The State requires that candidates score at least 70% in each of the four sections of the POST.
2. PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST
   Allcandidates must pass the following battery of fitness tests as established byIowa Code and the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy:
   1. Sit & Reach Test
      This is a measure of flexibility of the lower back and upper leg area. The test involves stretching out to touch the toes or beyond with extended arms from a sitting position.
   2. One (1) Minute Sit Up Test
      This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. The score is numbers of bent leg sit-ups performed in one (1) minute.
   3. One (1) Minute Push Up Test
      This test requires candidates to push their own weight off the floor. This exercise measures the amount of force the upper body can generate and is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. The score is calculated by the number of push-ups performed in one (1) minute.
   4. One and One/Half (1 1/2) Mile Run
      This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system's capability to transport oxygen. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds.

      The actual performance requirement for each test is based upon norms for a national population sample. THE APPLICANT MUST PASS EVERY TEST. The required performance to pass each test is based upon sex and age (decade). While the absolute performance is different for the eight (8) categories, the relative level of effort is identical for each age and sex group. All candidates are being required to meet the same percentile rank in terms of their respective age/sex group. The performance requirement is that level of physical performance that approximates the 40th percentile for each age and sex group.

      MALES

      Test / Age	20 - 29	30 - 39	40 - 49	50 - 59	60+
      Sit & Reach	16.5	15.5	14.3	13.3	12.5
      Sit Ups	38	35	29	24	19
      Push Ups	29	24	18	13	10
      1.5 Mile Run	12:51	13:36	14:29	15:29	16:43

      FEMALES

      Test / Age	20 - 29	30 - 39	40 - 49	50 - 59	60+
      Sit & Reach	19.3	18.3	17.3	16.8	15.5
      Sit Ups	32	25	20	14	6
      Push Ups	15	11	9	12*	5*
      1.5 Mile Run	15:26	15:57	16:58	17:54	18:44

      * Females in excess of 49 years of age may do push-ups on their knees.

3. PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST
   Step 3 will consist of a psychological examination (MMPI-2). The test will take approximately two to three hours to complete.
4. ORAL INTERVIEW
   Step 4 is the Oral Interview. Applicants that have achieved a passing score on the POST and the Physical Fitness Test will be scheduled for an appearance before the Interview Board.

This will end the initial testing process. Upon completion of the interviews, the final Civil Service list will be determined. The Department will, as vacancies occur, require selected applicants onthe Civil Service list to return to Ottumwa for a polygraph and physical examination.

If you have any questions concerning the Department or the entrance testing process, please contact Lt. Mark Hagist at hagist@ci.ottumwa.ia.us or at (641)683-0633.