The civil service exam is a comprehensive test given to those who want to work for the US government as a civil servant, a term that refers to a professional position in the government. Many government jobs at the local, state, and federal levels require passing the exam. Depending on the situation, each of these civil service jobs may require a different civil service exam. Questions are usually divided into two categories: general knowledge and academics, as well as job-specific knowledge requirements.
General Information
The general knowledge sections of the civil service exam cover topics like basic arithmetic and, depending on the job, advanced arithmetic. These questions may be particularly well suited to money management or word problems related to various professions. Interpretation of graphs and statistics may also be part of the test, particularly for those pursuing careers in analytical fields like finance and government accounting.
The civil service exam places a strong emphasis on language skills, particularly English. Those interested in taking the exam should ensure that they have a good understanding of grammar, can spell correctly, and can write a good composition. These fundamental skills are covered in almost every civil service exam.
Sections devoted to specific jobs
In addition to the general knowledge section of the exam, there are job-specific questions that focus on knowledge that any professional in a particular field should have. People applying to be police officers, for example, may be asked questions about state law and general law enforcement. Questions about ethics and best police practices can also be included. Local tests may cover municipal law, while others may cover laws specific to each state.
Other job-related duties, such as customer service, reasoning, and memory, may be covered in a civil service exam. These are critical questions for those in most government jobs, as nearly all of them require regular interaction with the public. There are tests that more directly address issues in this field for those interested in management positions.
Taking the Examination
Taking a civil service exam frequently necessitates pre-registration. In many cases, the exam is given the organization that is hiring new employees. As a result, they can be given at various times depending on turnover, and some agencies do so on a regular basis. Other times, the agency will offer them as needed to fill a position, in which case someone will need to check in with the hiring organization on a regular basis.
Exams that are similar
Similar tests are frequently required of government employees in countries other than the United States. However, because each country’s laws and regulations differ, people interested in working for the local or federal government should contact the appropriate agency in their area. People in the United Kingdom, for example, may be required to pass similar tests in order to become civil servants or join certain military branches.