How to Take a Written Test
How to Apply for the Examination
The examination announcement will tell you, under How To Apply, the examination application form required, where to get it, and how to file it. Once you have the correct form, fill it out carefully, accurately, completely, and neatly. Read all parts and fill out all of those that apply to you.
The information you provide must show that you meet the minimum qualifications required to take the test. Therefore, it is important that you answer all questions and provide clear and complete information about your relevant education and experience.
Reasonable accommodations in testing can be arranged for people with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations to take the test, you should indicate this on your application for the examination. You must also directly contact the civil service agency that announced the examination (this Department for State examinations, and the local civil service agency for local examinations) to describe the accommodations you need. You will be required to produce documentation to prove that you are eligible for reasonable accommodations in testing.
Alternate test date arrangements are also available for Sabbath observers, persons on active military duty, and persons taking examinations for more than one civil service jurisdiction on the same date.
War-time disabled veterans, war-time veterans, and persons on full-time active duty (other than for training) are eligible to have extra credits added to their examination score, if they pass. In most instances, these extra credits can be used only once for any permanent government appointment in New York State. If you want to have the extra credits added to your examination score, you must answer the appropriate questions on the application form. You will be required to produce documentation, such as discharge papers, to prove that you are eligible for Veterans credits.
On the application form, there is a place to sign a statement that affirms that all the information you have given is accurate. This is your legal affirmation that the statements on your application are true.
You will be required to pay an application fee to take most examinations. Information on the amount of the fee and how it can be paid will be found on the announcement. If some applicants are eligible to have the required fee waived, the announcement will explain the requirements for a waiver.
Follow the instructions for completing your application and submit the application by the date shown on the announcement. It is advisable to keep a photocopy of your application along with the examination announcement for your records.
Mark the test date on your calendar!