The Correctional Officer Physical Ability Test (COPAT) is a timed-circuit test that evaluates an individual’s ability to meet the physical demands of Correctional Services work.
A minimum number of participants is required to schedule a testing session. Sessions may be canceled if registration is low.
If you have questions about the test that are not answered below, email Kyle at dunlopk4@macewan.ca
The following forms must be completed and brought to your test to participate in testing. There is no refund for a missed test or arriving without medical clearance from your physician.
Your medical clearance is valid for six months, as long as there are no significant changes in your medical status, such as a major injury, medical event (i.e. heart attack or stroke), or the diagnosis of an acute or chronic disease (i.e. diabetes or pneumonia). If your medical status changes, you will need a new medical clearance form.
The same clearance can be used for multiple tests within six months of obtaining the clearance.
For a copy of your clearance after the test, email dunlopk4@macewan.ca with your name and test date. There is a $25 fee for this service.
Applicants will be given a starting time within the designated two-hour testing window. Specific times cannot be requested; applicants must be available for the entire time frame.
Arrive before your start time with appropriate footwear, clothing, medical clearance, and ID. Late arrivals (more than 10 minutes) will not be allowed to take the test, and no refund will be provided.
At check-in:
We limit blood pressure tests to three attempts. If your blood pressure and heart rate do not meet the required levels, you will not be able to run the test that day, but can reschedule for the next available date. We recommend obtaining a note from your doctor if they are comfortable with you running the test at an elevated blood pressure and/or heart rate.
The test will take less than 10 minutes, however, you will not be permitted to leave the testing area until we have ensured your heart rate and blood pressure have returned to normal levels. If you leave before being cleared, you will not receive your results, and will not be able to take future occupational fitness tests at MacEwan Sport and Wellness.
Test results will be provided the day of testing. Results are typically valid for up to six months; however, this may vary by organization.
If you don’t pass the test, you can retake the test on the next available date. You cannot take two tests on the same day.
A $25 fee will be charged to reissue lost or missing results.
The COPAT is a maximal test, designed to push individuals to their maximum exertion levels. Participants may experience rapid breathing, sweating, light-headedness, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. Your experience will be influenced by your physical fitness level prior to the test; individuals who are less physically fit are more likely to experience these symptoms.
Participants are not allowed to run through the test or observe the test before their scheduled time.
We highly recommend watching the demonstration videos to prepare.
Regular cardiovascular and strength training are essential for preparation. Our trainers can create a custom plan based on your fitness level to help you achieve peak physical condition and prepare for your test. For more information about personal training, fill out a personal training consultation form or email Kyle at dunlopk4@macewan.ca
If you do not have a current workout routine, we suggest the following:
We recommend avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and large meals for at least two hours before the test. Additionally, do not exercise or consume alcohol within six hours prior to the test.
To pass the COPAT for Alberta Corrections, the timed portion of the test must be completed within 3 minutes and 20 seconds, though some organizations may have stricter time limits.
The COPAT test consists of the following components, completed in order:
To receive a full refund, participants must cancel at least two business days before the test. Withdrawals made after this deadline will not be refunded or rescheduled, except in cases of an acute medical condition with a doctor’s note provided.
To cancel your test, email WelcomeDesk@MacEwan.ca (please include your name and test date) or call 780-497-5300 (option 2).
Registrants will receive an email with additional information approximately 2 business days after registration and 2-3 business days before their testing date.
| Day | Start | End | Instructor | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM | Not specified | North Court |
| Day | Start | End | Instructor | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM | Not specified | North Court |
| Day | Start | End | Instructor | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM | Not specified | North Court |