ADF Coaching Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! it's completely normal and advisable to study for the selection process. In fact, many applicants who don't pass are often those who haven't prepared sufficiently. The selection process aims to weed out those who are unprepared. For instance, the aptitude tests include a significant amount of math from year ten. Failing these tests doesn't necessarily mean you lack the skills to become a Pilot; it more likely indicates that you didn't prepare adequately in year ten math. Ignore anyone who suggests you shouldn’t study. Instead, listen to those who have successfully gone through the process and received high recommendations: studying is crucial!

The idea that you "can’t prepare for the ADF JOA" is completely false. The JOA is an online aptitude test, and the reality is that **only well-prepared candidates unlock key roles. The assessment covers areas like problem-solving, cognitive skills, and verbal reasoning — all of which can and should be practiced.

Anyone telling you that preparation isn’t possible or necessary is setting you up for failure. The better you understand the test format and sharpen the required skills, the more likely you are to qualify for the roles you're aiming for. Verizen Coaching specializes in helping candidates prepare effectively, so you can maximize your chances of success. Prepare smart, and you’ll unlock the opportunities you deserve!

We recommend at least 2 MONTHS of dedicated preparation before the YOU Session Aptitude Test. By starting our course 2 months prior, that gives you adequate time to dedicate at least one hour per night to familiarise yourself with the varying question types, practice them in timed conditions, and then run through full mock exams. 

Our recommended preparation time for the ADF Assessment Day is at least ONE MONTH. This allows candidates to commence our dedicated coaching program whilst adequately research their job role, initial training, and personal experience examples. 

Our recommended preparation time for the ADF Assessment Day is at least TWO MONTHS. This allows candidates to commence our dedicated coaching program whilst adequately research military leadership, military philosophy, and current ADF operations

The main reason candidates often fail to pass the selection process is that they either haven't studied the correct materials or haven't dedicated enough effort to their studies. This is precisely why we provide courses designed to teach you exactly what you need to know. Additionally, we equip you with shortcuts and strategies to give you a competitive edge, ensuring you achieve results that greatly improve your chances of success.

We recommend at least 2 MONTHS of dedicated preparation before the YOU Session Aptitude Test. By starting our coaching program 2 months prior, that gives you adequate time to dedicate at least one hour per night to familiarise yourself with the varying question types, practice them in timed conditions, and then run through full mock exams. 

We recommend at least 1 MONTH of dedicated preparation before the YOU Session Aptitude Test. By starting our coaching program 2 months prior, that gives you adequate time to dedicate at least one hour per night to familiarise yourself with the varying question types, practice them in timed conditions, and then run through full mock exams. 

We endorse wearing business attire for all ADF Interviews/Assessments. In doing this, you distinguish yourself from the competition right away in your first impression as you will come across as one of the most professional and competitive candidates applying. 

The ADF does not release exact scores needed to unlock each tier of roles. However, our analysis indicates that scores of roughly 75-82% are required to unlock all roles. Please note that this year, the test for Type D and E roles is becoming more challenging. Additional tests may be required for these positions, including Linguists, Pilots, and Special Forces jobs.

No! As of now, all sessions are conducted on a pay-per-session basis, so that we position ourselves as the most affordable ADF interview preparation service out there!                                     

ADFA applications close once all available positions are handed out, so it's advisable not to postpone submitting yours.

The application process is quite comparable for both entry pathways, involving participation in a YOU (Your Opportunities Unlimited) Session either at your nearby ADF Careers Centre or online. Additionally, it encompasses completing a psychological interview, a defence interview, and a medical examination. However, if you are applying for Officer Entry, you will also be required to attend an Officer Selection Board as a component of the application procedure.

The YOU Session aptitude test is intentionally challenging, as it aims to evaluate individuals across a broad spectrum of skills. While some parts of the test may seem difficult, thorough preparation can help most candidates achieve scores sufficient for their desired roles.

The ADF does not disclose specific scoring criteria for its aptitude tests, so there isn't a clear-cut definition of a "good" or "bad" score. Your score needs to meet the threshold for the specific role you're interested in, but many other career paths are available within the ADF should your score not meet your initial job preference.

Failing to meet the required score for a preferred job category does occur, but it doesn't mean the end of opportunities within the ADF. Your Career Coach or Case Manager will present alternative roles for which you are qualified. If desired, you have the option to retake the test after a 6-month interval, but be aware that you can only attempt the test a total of three times.

The scoring for the aptitude test is straightforward: you earn points for each correct answer, with no penalties for incorrect responses. While the test does not assess speed, the time constraints make it beneficial to work swiftly. Improving your speed through practice can increase the number of questions you answer, potentially enhancing your overall score.

You will generally be allowed to attempt the JOA on three occasions only, and there is a minimum waiting period of six months between each attempt. Beyond this, no further attempts will be allowed unless the ADF believes there are valid reasons for doing so.

Most likely this will be because you have completed the assessment within the last six months. Defence applies a six month re-test period with the JOA to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to perform and that no one is advantaged by practice. It may also be that you have already attempted the JOA three or more times. If this is the case please call 13 19 02 if you believe there is a valid reason to allow you to undertake a further assessment.

Most candidates will find they have opened up some opportunities for employment within the ADF. But if you did not meet the requirements for your desired role, your Career Coach may be able to assist you to identify other jobs of interest to you.

The short answer is that there is no bad time to be taking the JOA. However, if you take the test when you’re in the 1st semester of Year 11 then if you don’t unlock Officer Entry on your first attempt at the assessment you will still be able to re-attempt the assessment the following year, in time to progress to an Officer Selection Board.

The JOA provides the ADF with a deeper understanding of your underlying abilities, and with this we can assist you in identifying jobs for which you are suited.

To complete the JOA you will need a laptop or desktop with the following: o Internet connection o A supported web browser: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari o Pop-up blockers are disabled (turned off) If you don't have a device that meets these requirements, please consider visiting your local library or going to a Defence Force Recruiting Centre.

You can reattempt the JOA after a 6 month waiting period. Verizen Coaching provides continuous support, allowing you to revisit any weak areas identified in your first attempt.

**Why do people fail the selection process?**

In many cases, candidates fail the selection process because they haven’t studied the right material or haven’t put in enough preparation. At Verizen Coaching, we ensure you’re learning exactly what you need to succeed by providing tailored content, techniques, and shortcuts that will give you an edge. Our courses are designed to prepare you thoroughly and give you the best chance of passing by focusing on both essential knowledge and efficient test-taking strategies.

The ADF Aviation Screening Program (ASP) is a two-day computer-based assessment that applicants for aviation roles in the Australian Defence Force must complete after their assessment day. Held at RAAF Base East Sale in Victoria, the ASP evaluates cognitive abilities, spatial awareness, and decision-making skills to determine a candidate's suitability for aviation roles. At Verizen Coaching, we help prepare candidates for this crucial screening process by providing tailored practice tests, strategies, and guidance to ensure they are well-equipped for success in the aviation selection process.

The JOA provides a measure of critical thinking and reasoning ability, which predicts how well someone will acquire, organise, retain and apply information in the military environment. The JOA is used by the ADF to identify what a person is capable of and match the person to ADF jobs that would best suit their abilities.

Once you have started the application process, we will email you a unique link, allowing you to complete the assessment online.

When you first click your unique link, you will be directed to a login page. Here you will need to enter the email address you registered with ADF Careers and your assessment code. Before you start the assessment, you will be given up to 10 minutes to run through five practice questions. Make sure that you read all the instructions carefully before attempting the questions. The assessment itself has 51 questions, which include numerical, verbal and abstract reasoning items, and you will have 20 minutes to complete as many questions as you can. Most people do not complete all the questions in that allocated time, so we recommend that you work as quickly and as accurately as you can. We also recommend that you focus on answering questions you feel confident about first, and then returning to the remaining questions if you have time. Once the assessment starts it is important that you read each question carefully and that you don’t spend too much time on any one question. You can always ‘flag’ questions you may be having difficulty with and return to them later if you have time.

You will receive a SMS to nominate a preferred time to be contacted by a Military Recruiter. Once a time has been confirmed, you will receive an email from ADF Careers regarding the outcome of your assessment. This is your personalised Job Opportunities Report (JOR). You will also receive other important documents to complete and review.

If you have any issues accessing the link or the assessment, please call 13 19 02 for assistance. Lines are open 8:00am to 9.30pm weekdays and 8:00am to 7:00pm on Saturdays Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).

If you have any issues completing the JOA, please call 13 19 02 for assistance. Lines are open 8:00am to 9.30pm weekdays and 8:00am to 7:00pm on Saturdays AEST.

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Failing a PFA isn't the end of your application, but it will delay your enlistment. Usually, you can reschedule for the following week. However, if you fail three times, or if your enlistment date is within 4 weeks, your file may be pushed back by several months while you undergo a mandatory training period.

No. The PFA is the "minimum entry gate." Once you reach Recruit Training (Kapooka, Cerberus, 1RTU or the officer training establishments), the standards increase. For example, the Army BFA (Basic Fitness Assessment) requires significantly more push-ups and a faster 2.4km run time or beep test than the entry PFA.

If your BMI is between 32.9 and 35, you may still be eligible if you can pass a "Waist-to-Height Ratio" test or provide evidence of high muscle mass. However, a BMI over 35 generally requires a medical waiver or significant weight loss before you can attempt the PFA.

es. The Navy swim test is conducted in standard work overalls. This simulates an "abandon ship" scenario. You must complete a 3m platform jump, 10m underwater swim, and 50m survival stroke swim without touching the edges or the bottom.

As of late 2025, the RAAF exclusively uses the Shuttle Run (Beep Test) for aerobic testing because it is a more controlled measure of VO2 max and is easier to conduct in various weather conditions. It ensures every member is graded on the same metric regardless of where they are stationed.

In the ADF, you must perform reps to a recorded beep. This prevents "cheating" by using momentum. If you fall out of sync with the beep twice, your test is terminated.

The Beep Test is about aerobic agility, not just running. Practice the "pivot and power" technique—tap the line with one foot, turn 180 degrees, and drive off. Most people fail because they waste energy making wide turns.

While the ADF has an enlistment age limit (usually up to 55), the pre-entry standards are generally not age-adjusted for most roles. However, in-service standards (like the Navy PFT or Army BFA) do become slightly more lenient as you enter older age brackets.

We recommend 4–5 sessions per week. Focus on two interval-based running sessions (shuttles), two strength sessions (push-ups/plank/sit-ups), and one long, slow recovery run or swim.

If you achieved a competitive score on your initial online Job Opportunities Assessment (JOA) from home, Defence Force Recruiting (DFR) will require you to complete Verification Testing in person at a Defence Testing Centre.

The purpose of this testing is simple: DFR needs to mathematically verify that the high scores you achieved at home were completely your own, produced under strict, supervised exam conditions without any outside assistance or resources.

What you need to know:

• The Format: You will sit a shortened, fast-paced version of the JOA cognitive, numerical, and abstract reasoning modules under the watchful eye of a test invigilator.

• The Officer Written Assessment: If you are applying for an Officer Entry pathway, you will also be required to complete a 15-minute written assessment on-site during this session to evaluate your written communication, structure, and expression under time constraints. Contact us directly for specialized preparation resources on how to clear this written hurdle.

• The Supervised Gap: Many candidates fall into the trap of scoring well in the comfort of their own room, only to see their processing speed dip under the intense pressure of a timed, proctored environment.

• The Penalty: If your verification scores do not closely replicate or validate your original online performance, it triggers a major red flag. Your application will be immediately halted, and you risk facing a mandatory 6-month lockout period before you are allowed to reapply or re-sit the tests.

How to handle it: Do not treat verification testing as a minor formality. Because you are hitting baseline cognitive modules on the exact same day as other major assessment milestones, your rapid-fire math, pattern recognition, and mental speed need to be completely muscle memory. You should practice using exact timed replication loops so that the testing center environment feels like just another practice round.