The OPP Sigma test refers to the Sigma Survey for Police Officers (SSPO) required for candidates applying to the Ontario Provincial Police. Since January 2020, the OPP and other Ontario police services have required candidates to complete the OACP Certificate, which includes the SSPO as its cognitive assessment component.
OPP Use of Sigma Test Results
The Ontario Provincial Police, as Ontario's largest police service, uses the OACP Certificate and Sigma test results as key factors in their hiring decisions. Candidates applying to the OPP must first obtain their OACP Certificate, demonstrating they meet minimum cognitive and written communication standards before proceeding with the OPP-specific application process.
The Sigma test for OPP candidates consists of 74 questions completed in 35 minutes. Section A contains 44 questions measuring spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation skills necessary for writing clear, accurate incident reports. Section B contains 30 police problem-solving questions presenting scenarios similar to situations OPP officers encounter, requiring candidates to demonstrate sound judgment and decision-making abilities.
Test Administration and Scoring System
As of January 2025, the Sigma test is administered online through the OACP Certificate system with live proctoring via eProctor Canada. Candidates complete the test in scheduled sessions with invigilator supervision through webcam monitoring to ensure examination integrity.
The Sigma test uses negative marking where incorrect answers reduce overall scores. While there is no official pass/fail threshold, higher scores make candidates more competitive in the OPP hiring process. Candidates receive a certificate upon completing all OACP requirements, and their scores are transmitted directly to the OPP when they apply.
Preparing specifically for the OPP Sigma test requires understanding the cognitive skills and written communication abilities the test measures, practicing with timed conditions, and developing strategies for the negative marking system.
