New York City Civil Service Exam
The New York City Civil Service Exam (NYCCSE) is a State-required examination for State department civil service jobs. The multiple-choice tests assess candidate’s skills, knowledge, and capabilities as pertinent to their desired career and are intended to keep the hiring process competitive and fair. NYCCSE can be divided into two categories: open-competitive and promotional/transitional depending on the examinee’s necessary pre-qualifications.
Candidates for the New York City Civil Service Exam are expected to meet all eligibility requirements and maintain their eligibility requirements throughout their employment. If a candidate registers for an exam and does not meet the requirements, their exam fee will be refunded.
Eligibility for New York City Civil Service Exam
- Candidates are required to be New York Residents at the point of application.
- Candidates possess a valid New York Driver’s License and maintain a valid New York Driver’s License throughout their employment.
- Candidates must meet any minimum education requirements (typically a high school diploma or equivalent).
- Candidates meet any minimum age requirements which is 18 years.
- Candidates must be able to pass a drug screening and maintain drug screening requirements.
- Candidates are required to pass any physical, psychological, and medical examinations, as required for essential functions of the job.
- Candidates have a character and background that does not ordinarily cause them disqualified.
- Candidates must be able to understand and be understood in English.
- Candidates must be able to prove their identity in the State of New York.
Syllabus of New York City Civil Service Exam
The New York City Civil Service Exam can be divided into the following categories:
- Open-competitive exams: These multiple-choice exams are open to members of the public and available to any New York City resident who meets the minimum job listing qualifications.
- Police Officer examinations are an example of open-competitive exams which are offered to the general public; however, this exam contains many specific guidelines including intense physical examination and strict age guidelines. A full guide for this exam can be found below.
- Promotion exams: These are exams available to current City employees who seek a promotion within their current career track. For example, Special Officers who are required to meet baseline exam requirements must also possess a Peace Officer Training Certification.
- Qualified-incumbent exams: These exams become available after two or more years to employees who have already worked for the City as provisional employees in certain jobs.
Format of New York City Civil Service Exam
- Typically consist of 40-150 multiple-choice questions.
- Candidates use a scantron sheet to record their answers using a number 2 pencil.
- Scores become available within 90-120 days of the examination date.
- Applicants’ scores are ranked from highest to lowest and then placed on a civil service list. When a candidate in that field is needed, City agencies will refer to the list and hire applicants based on their test scores.
- Applicants may apply for the NYCCSE online and return to incomplete applications online.
- Required exams may be written, practical, and/or physical depending on the specific career requirement.
How to apply for New York City Civil Service Exam
- Complete an application and submit the processing fee. In most cases, processing fees are non-refundable.
- You may apply for an exam online on the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (NYCDCAS) website.
- Most exams are held periodically although some are held continuously. Continuous exams may result in applicants being accepted at any time. Visit the NYCDCAS website for more information on test dates.
- You must score at least 70% to pass your exam.
- Most exams will contain content-specific material.
- Applicants who pass the exam are given a score that will remain active for four years.
- You may take the exam free of charge.
Study Guide for New York City Civil Service Exam
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