NAV Canada Air Traffic Controller Test

Are you looking to apply for an interesting and challenging position with NAV CANADA? Make sure you know exactly what to expect on the NAV CANADA Test. If you land a job with NAV CANADA you will get a competitive salary, including medical, dental, and pension benefits. NAV CANADA is a supportive organization who offer training courses, and opportunities for growth. Learn everything you need to know about their two pre-employment assessments.

Take a NAV CANADA Practice Test Today!

What Is the NAV CANADA Assessment?

The NAV CANADA Air Traffic Control (ATC) Assessment is a series of assessments designed to match the best candidates for air traffic controller positions. There are two main exams to the assessment: an online reasoning assessment, and an in Person Air Traffic Control Test.

NAV CANADA Online Assessment

This first NAV CANADA assessment is an online exam lasting 30-minutes and is divided into four main sections:

Inductive Reasoning

This section tests your ability to identify patterns and logical sequences, which is an integral skill for real-time on the job decision-making in air traffic control.

Concentration Ability

This section measures your focus and ability to concentrate over an extended period of time. This is a skill needed for managing the complicated and dynamic environments which you will face on the job.

Deductive Reasoning

This section is formatted as a matrix game. You will need to deduce the correct placement of shapes based on given rules which measures your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Spatial Orientation

This section involves directing an aircraft based on visual inputs, simulating a fundamental task of air traffic control and measuring your ability to interpret spatial information accurately.

Learn More with this NAV CANADA Online Assessment Test Prep.

In-Person NAV CANADA FEAST Tests

If you pass the first online assessment you will be invited to take an in person second stage FEAST (First European Air Traffic Controller Selection Test) I and II tests. The FEAST Tests simulate the complexities of tasks you will face as an air traffic controller.

ATC FEAST Part 1

The first part will be a computer based test evaluating cognitive abilities expected of ATCs, including; memory, spatial reasoning, and attention. After you finish this part, you will take the FEAST Part 2 - Air Traffic simulations. 

ATC FEAST Part 2

This section focuses on tasks you will be required to perform as an air traffic control employee. You will answer questions that focus on dynamic radar, multi-control, mathematical notions, and strip display management. This is considered the hardest part of the test and most candidates fail.

Learn More with this NAV CANADA FEAST Test Prep.

NAV CANADA Assessment Test Sample Questions, Answers and Explanations

Inductive Reasoning Sample Question

This section tests your pattern recognition ability under time pressure. You have 6 minutes to answer as many questions as you can. 

Task: Each question presents matrices with various symbols. Identify the rule governing the left grids and select the corresponding grids on the right that follow that rule.

Concentration Test Question

This FEAST ATC assessment is a variant of the classic attention test. You'll click "correct" when you see a specific image and "incorrect" for any others.

The test lasts around 2 minutes. Maintain high concentration during this time so you can give quick and accurate responses.

Logic Test

This assessment evaluates your ability to understand and apply rules effectively. You have 6 minutes to complete as many questions as possible.

Task: You will be shown an array of up to five different symbols with a question mark in the middle. Your objective is to replace the question mark with the symbol that fits so that each shape appears exactly once per row and column.

Answer

The missing shape in the third row is X; So, the answer is D, X.

Inside Tip: Each symbol can only appear ONCE per row or column. Pay careful attention to the placement and frequency of each symbol in the grid.

Spatial Orientation Sample Question

This test section assesses your orientation skills. You have 3 minutes to answer as many questions as possible.

Task: You'll view an aircraft dashboard displaying a gyrocompass indicating flight direction and a radio compass showing the non-directional beacon's location. Your objective is to determine the aircraft's position and course relative to the beacon.

For practice for the NAV CANADA FEAST exam. Take a look at our Practice FEAST Test Prep which includes in-depth sample test questions, answers, and explanations.

The NAV CANADA Selection Process

The NAV CANADA hiring process is INTENSE and designed to assess the core competencies required to be an air traffic control professional. Just because you pass one stage of the application process does not guarantee an invitation for additional testing. Each stage of the selection process will include details on the validity of test results and your reapplication eligibility.

1. Find the Job Opportunity You Want

Before applying, you should review the NAV CANADA website and target the air traffic services career opportunities you want.

2. Verify Eligibility

You should make sure you meet the eligibility requirements before applying. Applications that DO NOT meet the requirements will be screened out immediately.

3. Apply Online

Candidates must complete an online application through our Workday recruiting system on the NAV CANADA Careers page, providing details such as academic and professional history. You can track the status of your application through the Workday portal at any point.

4. Online Assessment

If your application is deemed eligible you will get an email invitation to complete an online assessment. This 30-minute timed cognitive assessment can be done from home. It is the first step in the selection process and you must PASS it to go on further in the hiring process. If you fail you need to wait a YEAR from the testing date to reapply. Take a sample NAV CANADA ATC Test to learn what to expect.

5. In-Person Test

If you pass the online assessment expect to face the FEAST Exam. The NAV CANADA in-person assessments are given in each region based on operational requirements, usually at area control centers. The FEAST exam requires one full day (approximately six hours) to complete. This is the hardest hurdle you will face in the selection process. If you fail the FEAST Test for NAV CANADA you must wait TWO years to reapply after your test date. Get a taste of what to expect take a sample NAV CANADA FEAST test.

6. Language Testing

If you are a candidate within the Montreal Flight Information Region, you need to undergo language testing to ensure full bilingualism in French and English. This testing is done over the phone with a third-party company.

7. Assessment Center/In-Person Interviews

If you pass the assessments you move on to the next part in the process. Half-day assessment centers are held in each region based on operational requirements, usually at area control centers. These interview days include various group and individual exercises and an interview to assess candidates' skills, abilities, and attitudes. If you are applying for a bilingual position in the Montreal flight information region you will need to complete a bilingual assessment center session. You should be prepared to discuss your life, academic, and work experiences, as well as your interest in a career in air traffic control. If you fail this stage then you can reapply THREE years after your assessment date.

8. Selection

Congrats! If you pass all the previous steps you will be extended a job offer. Job offers will be given prior to the course start date. If you are selected you will get a web-based training program to be assessed on upon entering the classroom. Before you can be employed you must meet medical licensing requirements, security clearance, and drug testing (including cannabis). Information will be sent to you through Workday, NAV CANADA's careers portal. So make sure you track your status through the portal throughout the process. 

NAV CANADA Air Traffic Controller Test FAQs

What are the Requirements to take the NAV CANADA Aptitude Test?

The basic eligibility requirements are as follows:

• Be 18 years or older at the time of application
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Meet language requirements (bilingual in English and French for the Montreal and National Capital Regions; English for all other regions)
• Be willing to relocate if necessary
• Be available to start training full-time within 18 months of application

If you do not meet these requirements, your application will be automatically screened out and you will not be invited to complete any assessments. Eligible applicants will progress to the first assessment stage based on operational requirements.

What Happens if I Fail the Nav CANADA Assessments?

If you fail in the initial online test, you can reapply one year after your testing date. If you fail the in-person test, you can reapply two years after your testing date. If you fail in the assessment center, you can reapply three years after your testing date. During this time, we recommend preparing for the assessments with this Air Traffic Controller Practice test.

What Happens if I Pass all the NAV CANADA Assessments?

Passing the assessments does not guarantee a training offer. Positions are limited by operational needs and candidates are selected based on their scores. If you pass all assessments but are not immediately offered a training seat, you remain eligible for an offer for five years from your most recent testing date.

How Do I Know Where I Stand in the Application Process?

Your status in Workday, NAV CANADA's careers portal, indicates your current stage in the application and assessment process. Just because you pass a step does not guarantee an invitation to the next assessment. Scores are compared with other applicants, and candidates with the BEST scores will move on.

• Review: Your application has been received and is under review. NAV CANADA will reach out if more information is needed.
• Assessment: You are eligible to complete or have recently completed one of the assessments, including an initial online test and an in-person computer-based test.
• Interview: You are eligible to complete or have recently completed one of the in-person assessment centers with local HR and managers.
• Offer: You are eligible for a paid training opportunity with NAV CANADA. To fully qualify, you must meet all pre-employment conditions, including a security clearance check, medical requirements, and drug testing (including cannabis).

How Will I Know if I Passed the NAV CANADA Assessment?

Each of the assessments has a pass score, and you must pass each one to move to the next assessment. If you do not pass, you will be notified and you can not advance to the next stage. Your scores will be compared to other candidates, and those having the top scores progress. You will not get feedback or individual assessment scores. You can see it is not enough just to simply pass the assessments you should aim to EXCEL.

Ensure you get a passing score Take a Practice NAV CANADA ATC Test.

I Got a Job Offer, What Happens Next?

Once you get your offer, you will be sent instructions for completing pre-employment requirements including:

Pre-employment Drug Screening

You must visit a facility within 30 days of receiving your offer letter for drug screening. Any necessary follow-up tests will be communicated to you; there is no out-of-pocket cost for this screening.

Medical Testing

NAV CANADA mandates that air traffic services professionals be medically fit for duty. Both air traffic control and flight services careers require pre-employment medical testing, which can be lengthy. Starting this process promptly upon receiving your training offer is crucial; failure to obtain medical clearance will prevent training commencement. NAV CANADA reimburses up to $300 for medical testing costs, which can be submitted after training begins.

Air Traffic Control

Requires a Transport CANADA-issued Civil Aviation Category 2 medical for training admission.

Flight Services

Requires valid medical certification for flight service specialists.

Security Screening

Expect an email from a third-party company to your personal email address to initiate background screening on NAV CANADA's behalf. Promptly provide information to avoid delays related to past employment or education details. Inform your references to anticipate contact.

Your training offer will typically be made 6 to 12 months before training starts to allow time for completion of these tasks and potential relocation. If any requirement is not met before training starts this may hold up your ability to start.

When Is In-Person Computer Based FEAST Testing?

In-person computer-based testing will be given in the following cities:

•  July: Edmonton, Montréal, Moncton, and Winnipeg
•  August: Gander, Montréal, Edmonton, and Vancouver
•  September: Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, and Montréal

What Is the Salary for a Nav CANADA Air Traffic Controller?

When you start your training, you will get a bi-weekly training salary based on your career path within air traffic services:

• Air traffic controllers: Approximately $49,000 per year during training.
• Flight service specialists: Approximately $42,000 per year during training.

Upon finishing and getting full qualification, salaries increase as follows:

• Area Controllers: $116,000 to $170,000 per year.
• Tower Controllers: $84,000 to $170,000 per year.
• Flight Service Specialists (FIC): $81,000 to $101,000 per year.
• Flight Service Specialists (AAS): $68,000 to $104,000 per year.

Please note that these figures represent the 2022 union pay range as per the current collective agreement.

How Can I Prepare the NAV CANADA Assessments?

There are many benefits for working with NAV CANADA. Therefore, they make the selection process quite difficult. If you fail either of the assessments you must wait 1-2 years to reapply. Ensure you are not one of the candidates in the failing pool. Take a Practice NAV CANADA Spatial Orientation Test and NAV CANADA FEAST Test. It is worthwhile to practice in advance, especially for the FEAST Exam. These types of questions are not intuitive to the untrained eye. It is important to not just pass the exam but to do well. Passing the test does not guarantee you will go on in the application process.

Learn more about the Air Traffic Controller Test.