Q: What is the CPAT?
A:  It is a candidate physical ability test that is a requirement to enter the Fire Recruit Training Academy. The CPAT involves three separate two hour days. The first day is orientation and practice, the second day is practice, and the third day is the actual test. The CPAT is conducted at the Fire Academy.  CPAT information link: CPAT

Q: What is the cost of the CPAT?
A: $110.00

Q: When is the CPAT offered?
A: The CPAT is offered at least four times a year. The schedule can be found on this Web site.

Q: What is the (NFSI) National Firefighter Selection Inventory - Test?
A:  This test is a prerequisite for entry into the Fire Recruit Training Academy, and requires a candidate to pass with a score of 70% or higher. The test is conducted at the Palm Beach State Lake Worth campus testing center only.  Testing Centers

Q: What is the cost of the NFSI - Test?
A:  $25.00

Q: Where can I get information about the NFSI - Test?
A:  The Palm Beach State Lake Worth book store will have study guides in stock, and you can go to www.publicsafetyrecruitment.com  for additional information.

Q: What is the TABE?
A: Test of Adult Basic Education. Passing the full battery TABE is a prerequisite for graduation from the Fire Recruit Training Academy. The test is conducted at all Palm Beach State Testing Centers.

Q: What is the cost of the TABE?
A: $25.00

Q: Where can I get information on the TABE?
A: Call the Testing Centers at 561-868-3011 or 561-207-5359. For TABE questions, call Clair or Andrea at 561-868-3543

Q: What does limited access program mean?
A:  It is a process of selection of who attends the Fire Recruit Training Academy. Points are given for residency status, emergency service (answer to a 911 call) work, Palm Beach State EMT and Paramedic trained Florida certificate holders. Those with the highest number of points are selected. In the event of a tie, a lottery is used. If a candidate meets the criteria outlined in Florida Statute #633.35 they will be accepted into the program after successfully passing the written and practical testing requirements.

Q: How many students can be enrolled for each Fire Academy class?
A:  The College limits class size to 24 students to increase instructor/student  contact time.

Q: How much time does the Recruit Academy take?
A: Classroom, practical and testing take approximately 480 hours. The day class usually takes approximately 13 weeks to finish, and the night class takes about 6 months.

Q: How do I enroll?
A: Application packets should be available at all registration offices, Fire/EMS office at the Lake Worth Campus, Fire Academy, and from this Web site. If you are a first time student at Palm Beach State College, you will have to go to any registration office and fill out the college registration form in addition to the registration form in the packet. You need to send your official high school and college transcripts to the registrars office prior to the application deadline.

Q: Should I take EMT or Fire Academy first?
A: It is highly recommended that you take EMT prior to applying for the Fire Academy program. The Palm Beach State EMT Program will give you first hand firefighter experience, and upon State certification, increase your points for the Fire Academy selection pool.