Medical and Psychological Assessment
Core concepts
The medical examination verifies physical fitness for service: vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, respiratory function, and general condition, with screening for conditions incompatible with the role. The psychological assessment evaluates personality, emotional stability, stress tolerance, and suitability for disciplined, armed service. Candidates should understand that honesty and consistency matter more than giving "ideal" answers.
Traps in questions
- Inconsistency: contradictory answers on personality questionnaires are detected and count against the candidate.
- Over-idealised profiles: claiming never to feel stress or anger appears unrealistic and reduces credibility.
- Hiding medical history: concealing a condition is riskier than declaring it; most conditions are assessed case by case.
- Anxiety management: arriving sleep-deprived or unprepared raises blood pressure and affects results.
Rule of thumb
Answer psychological items honestly and consistently, choosing the response that describes you rather than the one that sounds most impressive. Before the medical exam, sleep well, avoid stimulants, and bring any relevant medical documents.
Worked example
Two items ask whether you ever lose patience and whether you stay calm under pressure. Answering "never lose patience" and "often angry" is contradictory. Consistent, moderate answers reflect a stable profile.