Candidates often want a precise “section list” before test day. NAV CANADA publishes enough information to prepare responsibly, but it does not publish a full public blueprint of every proprietary task.
This page summarises the format at the level NAV CANADA makes public, then explains how to train the related skills.
Independent site notice: ATCPracticeTest.com is not affiliated with NAV CANADA. Always follow the instructions in your invitation.
Online assessment format
After eligibility screening, invited candidates complete a remote online assessment.
Public points from NAV CANADA include:
- invitation by email after eligibility screening;
- timed format of approximately 30 minutes;
- remote completion with no travel for this stage;
- desktop or laptop recommended (not phone or tablet);
- unsuccessful candidates may reapply one year after the testing date.
Detail: NAV CANADA online assessment.
In-person assessment format
Candidates who progress may be invited to regional in-person testing, often held at area control centres.
Public points include:
- invitation-based scheduling tied to operational needs;
- about one full day (approximately six hours);
- computer-based cognitive testing;
- a short same-day pre-screening interview after successful testing;
- a preparation-platform link may be provided with the invitation;
- unsuccessful candidates may reapply two years after the testing date.
Detail: NAV CANADA assessment test.
Skills evaluated (public list)
For the in-person cognitive stage, NAV CANADA states that tests evaluate abilities required for air traffic control careers, including:
Memory
Working memory and updating information while new details arrive.
Working speed
Accurate processing under time constraints without reckless guessing.
Spatial visualization
Understanding positions, movement, and visual relationships.
Thinking and reasoning
Applying rules, drawing conclusions, and solving structured problems.
Attention
Sustained focus and detecting important changes.
Information processing
Absorbing and organising multiple inputs efficiently.
Simple math
Basic numerical accuracy under time pressure.
Assessment centre and later stages
Later stages may include an assessment centre with group and individual exercises, plus language testing when required. Those stages evaluate communication, judgement, and suitability as well as cognitive skill.
See assessment centre and hiring process.
What not to invent
Do not treat forum rumours as official format. Do not seek leaked screenshots, proprietary interfaces, or claimed “real questions.” Ethical preparation trains the skills above using original practice.
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