Practice Test GeeksStudy Forums

Failed NTN POLICE written test twice, what am I missing?

by Preethi N. 32 views3 replies
P
Preethi N.OP
May 27, 2026

So I'm applying to three departments in my county and they all use the National Testing Network exam. I took it the first time back in February and scored a 68 on the written portion — passing is 70 where I'm applying. Took it again in April thinking I'd just wing it again and got a 69. One point. I'm losing my mind.

The thing is I feel pretty confident about the reading comprehension and math sections, but I think the human relations and judgment scenarios are killing me. I've been using a cheap NTN POLICE practice test I found on some random site but honestly I don't know if it's even close to the real thing. Has anyone found a solid study guide that actually covers the decision-making scenarios the way they show up on test day?

I've got a conditional offer pending on one department that expires in September so I'm on a timeline here. Any exam tips from people who've been through this would be seriously appreciated. How long did you study and what did you actually focus on?

S
Samantha C.
May 28, 2026
The judgment/human relations section tripped me up too. What finally clicked for me was remembering the test is looking for the "most professional" answer, not the most logical one to a civilian. I spent about three weeks just doing scenario questions every day — like 20 a day. I went from a 71 to an 84 on my third attempt. Also the reading comp is timed tighter than you expect so practice reading fast and pulling main ideas quickly.
T
Tyler B.
May 28, 2026
One tip that helped me: take the practice tests timed, not open-ended. I was scoring fine untimed and then bombed because I wasn't used to the pressure. Simulate real conditions as much as possible. You're so close with a 69 — honestly one or two more correct answers is all you need. You've got this.
H
Hannah K.
May 28, 2026
I passed mine in March with a 78. Honestly the math wasn't bad at all — basic algebra and some percentage stuff. What I didn't expect was how heavy the reading section was on law enforcement specific passages. They're not just giving you random articles. Knowing basic police report terminology beforehand helped me read those passages way faster. Do you know which departments you're testing for? Some are pickier about the score than others even above the 70 cutoff.

Join the Discussion

Sign in or register to reply with your account, or reply as a guest below.

Related Discussions

← Back to Forum