Overview
The Hong Kong Police Force selects Recruit Police Constables through a multi-stage process of interviews, tests and checks. The Force says the whole process is expected to take at least 14 weeks, depending on the number of applicants.
Who can apply
According to the Force's entry requirements page, applicants must:
be a permanent resident of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region;
hold Level 2 or above in five subjects in the HKDSE (or Level 2 / Grade E or above in five subjects in the HKCEE);
be able to read and write Chinese, speak fluent Cantonese, and have Level 2 in both Chinese Language and English Language;
pass the Basic Law and National Security Law Test (BLNST);
pass an eyesight test and a physical fitness test.
Exam pattern
The selection stages are:
| Stage | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Group Interview | A Practical Incident Handling Test (a job-related test of communication in Chinese and English, judgment and fact-finding); a Self-Introduction, followed by questions on current affairs and police-related subjects; and a Group Discussion on local current affairs or Force-related issues |
| Basic Law and National Security Law Test | All applicants must pass it. The entry requirements page describes it as 20 multiple-choice questions in 35 minutes. From 9 September 2024, top performers in the Group Interview are invited to the Final Interview on the same day, followed by the BLNST |
| Psychometric Test | Completed before the Final Interview Board |
| Physical Fitness Test | Takes around half a day at the Police College |
| Final Interview Board | Chaired by two police officers, who ask about current affairs and police-related issues to assess confidence, judgment, expression, communication, analytical ability, resource management and determination to serve the community |
| Integrity checks and medical examination | Arranged after the Final Interview Board; the medical includes a urine drug test |
After the exam
When all recruitment and vetting is complete, you are told the result. Appointment as Recruit Police Constable is offered to the candidates found most suitable, subject to vacancies.
Preparation tips
The Group Interview and Final Interview Board both draw on current affairs and police-related issues, so follow local news and practise giving short, clear spoken answers in Chinese and English. Check the Force's fitness page for the Physical Fitness Test standard well before you apply.
How long does Hong Kong Police Constable selection take?
The Force expects the whole process to take at least 14 weeks, depending on the number of applicants.
Is the Basic Law and National Security Law Test required for Police Constable applicants?
Yes. All applicants for Recruit Police Constable must pass it.