QPSea explained: the Queensland Police entrance assessment

The QPS Entrance Assessment, or QPSea, is the written test for joining the Queensland Police Service. It's run by ACER and you sit it after QPS confirms your expression of interest.

The three sections

Section	Questions	Time
Literacy	30	35 minutes
Abstract reasoning	30	35 minutes
Writing	1 task	35 minutes

Each section is scored and timed separately. The whole assessment takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Cost and vouchers

If QPS invites you, it sends a voucher that covers the test. Redeem it within 72 hours and book within 7 days. The voucher also covers resitting up to two sections. Without a voucher the fee is $279.

If you fail all three sections, an exclusion period applies and further attempts are at your own cost — so prepare properly before your first sitting.

How long a pass lasts

A QPSea pass is valid for three years.

Exemptions

You may not need to sit the QPSea if you have an ATAR of 80+, a relevant degree or diploma, a previous QPSea pass, or two or more years of Australian or New Zealand policing experience.

How to prepare

• Practise reading comprehension with a timer — about a minute per question.
• With 35 minutes for 30 abstract reasoning questions, expect more complex patterns than a quick-fire test.
• Plan your writing: a clear position, one idea per paragraph, and a short conclusion.

Our QLD practice tests follow the QPSea's three sections and timing. Try the free quiz first.

Sources: ACER — QPS Entrance Assessment; QPS Recruiting — QPSea. Checked September 2026.