PP Police Pay
National Assessment Centre

Master the Assessment Centre

Independent, plain-English guidance to help you navigate the final stage of police recruitment with confidence and clarity.

The Police Online Assessment Centre (OAC) is the final and most misunderstood stage of police recruitment. This hub brings together independent, plain-English guidance to help candidates understand how the assessment works, what assessors are looking for, and how to prepare calmly and realistically.

Inside, you’ll find a complete breakdown of the interview, written exercise and briefing exercise, a transparent explanation of how marking works, and a detailed look at the most common reasons capable candidates struggle. All content is designed to inform rather than sell, focusing on preparation, clarity and evidence rather than confidence or polish.

Interactive Quick Check

Are You Ready?

Identify preparation gaps and see what to focus on next.

Start Readiness Check

Trust Statement

  • "Independent guidance. Preparation improves readiness, not outcomes."

  • "Not affiliated with the College of Policing or any force."

Deep Dive

Police OAC Competency Interview

Complete breakdown of the interview stage. Learn the winning structure for STAR answers and how to avoid common mistakes.

Read Guide
Guide

Police OAC Written Exercise

In-Tray exercise explained. How to structure reports, analyse data, and write with authority.

Read Guide
Guide

Police OAC Briefing Exercise

10 minutes to prepare, 5 to speak. How to prioritise issues and deliver a calm briefing.

Read Guide
Deep Dive

How the Police OAC Is Marked

Evidence vs Fluff. A transparent look at what assessors actually score, and what they ignore.

Read Marking Guide
✗ Confidence
✗ Polish
Evidence of Behaviour
Reasoning
New Guide

Common OAC Mistakes

Why capable candidates fail. A non-judgemental look at the most common preparation gaps and how to fix them.

Read Mistakes Guide
! Vague Intentions
! Rushing Reflection
! Memory Overload
Reassurance Guide

What Happens If You Fail?

A calm, factual look at next steps. Why it happens, how to process it, and how to decide what to do next.

Read Guide
? Feedback Explained
? Reapplication Rules
? Next Steps

Common Questions

What is the Police Online Assessment Centre?
The Police Online Assessment Centre is a national assessment stage used to evaluate behavioural evidence through interview, written and briefing exercises.
Is the OAC the final stage of police recruitment?
For many candidates it is the final assessment stage before vetting, medical checks and offers, although processes vary by force.
Do you need police experience to pass the OAC?
No. Candidates are assessed on behaviour and reasoning, not policing knowledge or experience.
Can you fail one part of the OAC and still pass?
Each exercise is assessed independently and outcomes are based on overall evidence.
How should I start preparing for the OAC?
Understanding the format and identifying preparation gaps early is the most effective approach.

Not sure where to start?

Most candidates begin with the readiness check, then read the OAC overview before exploring each exercise in detail.

Start Readiness Check Read the OAC Explained

Looking for the bigger picture?

See how your salary evolves after the OAC and through your first three years of service.

Salary Calculator Candidate Hub