MEPS Security and Background Screening Questions and Answers

Question 1

An applicant completes the Standard Form 86 (SF 86), Questionnaire for National Security Positions. Which of the following is the PRIMARY purpose of this form in the MEPS process?

Accepted Answer

To initiate the background investigation required for a security clearance.

Answer

To serve as a basis for determining physical and medical fitness for duty.

Answer

To document the applicant's preferred military occupational specialties (MOS).

Answer

To register the applicant for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.

Question 2

A MEPS technician is handling an applicant's file which contains their full name, Social Security Number, and medical history. According to USMEPCOM policy regarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII), which action is required?

Accepted Answer

Any suspected loss or compromise of PII must be reported to the USMEPCOM Privacy Act Officer within one hour.

Answer

PII can be stored on a personal, non-networked thumb drive for easy transport between sections.

Answer

Documents containing PII should be left on a desk in a secured office overnight.

Answer

E-mails containing PII can be sent to personal email accounts for backup purposes.

Question 3

An applicant for a sensitive military role has submitted their SF 86. While the full, in-depth background investigation is pending, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) may grant what type of temporary eligibility?

Accepted Answer

An Interim Security Clearance

Answer

A Conditional Enlistment Contract

Answer

A Preliminary Suitability Rating

Answer

A Security Processing Waiver

Question 4

During the security screening interview at MEPS, an applicant is asked about their past involvement with law enforcement. The applicant has a sealed juvenile record for a minor offense. What is the correct course of action for the applicant?

Accepted Answer

Disclose the offense honestly and provide all details requested by the interviewer.

Answer

Refuse to answer any questions regarding juvenile records as they are sealed.

Answer

State they have no record, as juvenile records are not considered in military background checks.

Answer

Only disclose the offense if it was a felony, as misdemeanors are not relevant.

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary role of the MEPS security section during an applicant's processing?

Accepted Answer

Initiating the background check by collecting fingerprints and reviewing the security questionnaire for completeness.

Answer

Adjudicating the final security clearance and granting access to classified information.

Answer

Conducting the full field investigation by interviewing the applicant's neighbors and employers.

Answer

Issuing the applicant's Common Access Card (CAC) upon successful enlistment.

Question 6

A recruiter submits an applicant's package to MEPS. The security screening reveals the applicant has significant delinquent debt and a history of failing to meet financial obligations. This situation would most likely be a concern under which adjudicative guideline for security clearances?

Accepted Answer

Financial Considerations

Answer

Foreign Influence

Answer

Personal Conduct

Answer

Psychological Conditions