What does the Selection Process involve?

Stage 1:

The candidate's application is checked to ensure the Cadet Pilot Minimum Criteria are met. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee that the candidate will progress to the next stage of the selection process. Only the most competitive candidates will be offered the opportunity to progress to Stage 2. Applicants failing to complete all of the mandatory fields on the application form will be prevented from submitting their application.

Selected candidates may be telephone screened by a member of the Pilot Recruitment team. The telephone screening process will assess the applicant's suitability and motivation for the program and is also an opportunity for the applicant to strengthen the depth of their application. This telephone interviewing process requires 10 -15 minutes of the applicant's time.

Stage 2:

One day of assessment that may be comprised of up to two parts: a Skills Assessment and a Psychometric Assessment. An administrative charge of A$195 is payable before the Psychometric Assessment can be conducted. Both assessments are computer-based and are conducted in a small, dedicated testing room.

Candidates who are not competitive at this stage of the process will not proceed to Stage 3.

Stage 3:

One day or two half days of assessment comprising a Panel Interview and an Occupational Health Assessment (OHA). A non-refundable fee of A$150 is payable for the OHA.

Candidates who are not competitive at this stage of the process will not proceed to Stages 4 or 5.

Stage 4 (for Commercial Program candidates only)

One day of assessment involving a Cadet Flight Test. Please refer to the information provided later in this brief and to the Program Information for costs that may be associated with completing the Cadet Flight Test.

Candidates who are not competitive at this stage of the process will not proceed to Stage 5 or 6.

Stage 5 (for Commercial Program candidates only - optional assessment stage)

Following Stage 4 (Cadet Flight Test) an applicant who is not considered competitive to proceed directly to Stage 6 will either be advised their application has been unsuccessful or they may be asked to undergo a Flight Screening Program at a nominated Flight Training Organisation. Please note that this is an optional and rarely used assessment stage. Further information on the Flight Screening Program is provided later in this briefing sheet.

Stage 6:

The candidate will supply a dental x-ray and submit documentation to enable an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Criminal History Check and an AUSCHECK clearance. Reference checks will be conducted by Qantas and the application will be subject to a full review by senior management personnel. A non-refundable fee of A$104.50 is payable for the Criminal History, Politically Motivated Violence and Citizenship Check.

Candidates who are strongly competitive at this stage may receive a written offer of a place on the Cadet Pilot Program.

Please note: The fees for the Psychometric Assessment, Occupational Health Assessment and an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Criminal History Check and an AUSCHECK clearance represent external fees imposed upon Qantas for each candidate who undertakes the assessments. Recovering this fee from the candidate allows Qantas to offer a greater number of applicants the opportunity to attempt the assessments.

What does the Skills Assessment involve?

The Skills Assessment is a computer-based pilot aptitude screening system developed to test some of the key aptitude areas for the pilot profession. The Qantas test lasts for approximately 1 hour and you will be asked to complete the following five (5) tests:

Each candidate will be given specific instructions on their testing day and have the ability to perform practice examples of the above tests before being asked to complete each section in its entirety. Basic computer knowledge is a must and candidates should expect to be put under some time restraints in a number of the exercises.

Currently there is no cost associated with completing this test as part of the Qantas Cadet Pilot recruitment process.

What does the Psychometric Assessment involve?

The Psychometric Assessment is comprised of a mouse lesson and 6 sections. Sections 1 to 4 are time-limited assessments designed to assess verbal, numerical, diagrammatic and spatial reasoning abilities. Sample questions are included at the beginning of each section and these should be studied carefully. When completing the time limited sections you are advised to work as quickly and accurately as possible. If you are not sure of an answer, select your best choice but avoid wild guessing.

Sections 5 and 6 have no time limits and are designed to assess personal competencies. There are no right or wrong answers to questions in sections 5 and 6 and candidates are encouraged to answer as honestly as possible. In sections 5 and 6, once a question is answered and the next question selected it is not possible to return and change the previous answer.

The entire Psychometric Assessment will take three to five hours to complete.

What does the Panel Interview involve?

The purpose of an interview is not only for us to find out more about you, but also a chance for you to find out more about Qantas and the Cadet program. The interview will be undertaken by a panel of two current Qantas pilots and one representative from People Relations (Human Resources) or Pilot Recruitment. The duration of the interview will run for approximately 45 minutes and consist of behavioural based questions. Here are some tips to help you best prepare for the interview:

• Spend time looking at the Qantas website to understand Qantas, the Cadet Program you have applied for and what is to be expected during the course and beyond.
• Manage your time - if you are running late please contact Pilot recruitment at your earliest convenience.
• Dress professionally. Speak clearly and maintain a comfortable level of eye contact throughout the interview. Don't forget to smile and keep a positive attitude.
• Be prepared for "behavioural" based questions (questions that require you to give examples of prior experience). The best way about being confident to answer these questions is to be familiar with your resume and think about school, work or flying situations that you can support your response. Communicating your key achievements will also be important.
• The interview is also a chance for you to ask your interviewer questions. You may wish to write these down and bring them with you. We will be happy to answer these at the end of the formal interview.
• Nerves - we all have these when we are being interviewed, so it's okay! We understand that for many of you this will be your first time undertaking a formal interview. To help minimize the nerves it's a good idea to be well prepared and arrive around 15 minutes prior to the interview. It's important to feel comfortable and confident during the interview.

What is the purpose of the Cadet Flight Test? (Commercial Program only)

The Cadet Flight Test is required for Commercial Program candidates only and is designed to assess the candidate's current flying skills. The test will take place only if the candidate has already been issued with a Commercial (Aeroplane) Pilot Licence (CPL(A)).

All Commercial Program Applicants must hold a CPL(A) by a specified date dependent upon their preference of course commencement as detailed in the Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule.

Qantas will be unable to consider applicants for their preferred course start date if they do not hold a CPL(A) by the dates specified. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to plan their training schedule and CPL (A) dates to allow for contingencies such as weather delays, aircraft unserviceability and minor illness in order to achieve their course start preference.

What does the Cadet Flight Test involve?

The test format is similar to that stipulated by CASA for initial issue of a Commercial (Aeroplane) Pilot Licence (CPL(A)), including the ground component. Competitive candidates will be those who can demonstrate a level of competency which has a margin above the minimum standard required for issue of a CPL(A).

The test will be conducted by a testing officer appointed by Qantas. Wherever possible, and if suitable to Qantas, the test will take place at the capital city secondary airport of the candidate's choice. The aircraft used for the test will be any aircraft of the candidate's choice which meets the CASA requirements to conduct a CPL(A) Flight Test. The candidate is responsible for making such an aircraft available for the test, for payment of all aircraft charges and the testing officer's fee. The testing officer's travel and accommodation expenses will be met by Qantas.

What happens after the Cadet Flight Test?

Commercial Program candidates must perform competently in the Flight Test in order to be accepted into the Cadet Pilot Program. Those who require further evaluation following the Cadet Flight Test may be invited to attend the Cadet Flight Screening Program. A candidate whose performance is not at a competitive standard will not be offered the option of entering the University programs available through the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program.

What does the Cadet Flight Screening Program involve?

The Cadet Flight Screening Program is an option available to Qantas to further evaluate Commercial Program candidates when there is some doubt as to their flying standard following the Cadet Flight Test. Qantas reserves all rights to decide whether or not the Cadet Flight Screening Program is offered to an applicant who fails to demonstrate a competitive standard in the Cadet Flight Test.

The Cadet Flight Screening Program would involve approximately one week at a nominated Flight Training Organisation. During the week the candidate would undergo approximately two simulator sessions and four flights. The total flying time involved would be approximately ten hours.

All expenses associated with the program would be the responsibility of the candidate. Any candidate invited to undertake the Cadet Flight Screening Program would be provided with a detailed quote of the program prior to either accepting or rejecting the offer to participate in the screening program.

What does the Occupational Health Assessment involve?

The Occupational Health Assessment (OHA) includes the components of a CASA Class 1 Medical examination plus other additional items. Candidates who do not hold a CASA Class 1 Medical can undertake this process during the OHA. A specific briefing sheet for the OHA is provided to candidates at the time of booking.

What does the Australian Federal Police(AFP) Criminal History Check and AUSCHECK clearance involve?

To submit an application for an Australian Federal Police(AFP) Criminal History Check and AUSCHECK clearance you must fill out a consent form and pay A$104.50. Specific instructions for this check will be issued to candidates at the appropriate stage of the selection process.

Where do I have to go for the assessments?

All assessments except the OHA, Cadet Flight Test and Cadet Flight Screening Program are conducted on the 3rd floor of the Qantas Centre C Building at 14 Bourke Road Mascot, Sydney. Upon arrival, candidates should report to security in the foyer on the ground floor. Security personnel will issue you with a visitors pass upon presentation of photo identification.

Specific instructions for the OHA, Flight Test and Flight Screening Program will be issued at the time of booking where applicable.

Where do I have to go for the Cadet Flight Test?

Wherever possible the Flight Test will be conducted at the capital city secondary airport of the candidate's choice. Please note that limited testing slots will be available in each state and Qantas will liaise with candidates undergoing the Cadet Flight Test regarding available test slots.

When will assessments take place?

Please refer to the Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule for details of assessment timings.

Appointments for all assessments are limited and candidates who apply early will have more opportunity to schedule assessment appointments that suit their schedules.

What should I bring on the day of assessment?

The documentation which must be brought to each stage of assessment is specified in the relevant booking confirmation letter.

The Skills and Psychometric Assessment takes approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete. Breaks can be taken at several points during the day. Candidates may wish to bring lunch and/or a snack to eat during these breaks. Drinking water and self-service tea and coffee is provided. In addition, a variety of foods can be purchased at the staff canteen and snack shop, open 0700 to 1530.

What should I wear for assessments?

Business attire is expected to be worn on the days of assessment. For Flight Tests candidates should wear their Flight School uniform if applicable or an equivalent dress standard.

What are the rules of the Skills and Psychometric Assessment?

The following items must not be taken into the Skills and Psychometric Assessment room:

• Any form of food or drink
• Any form of paper or written material
• Calculators or computers
• Rulers or scissors
• Luggage, bags or briefcases
• Mobile phones

Writing paper, pens and calculators will be provided by Qantas. The writing paper must be returned at the end of the day and must not be folded, cut or torn. A secure area will be provided to store luggage and brief cases. Candidates must not talk to each other in the testing room and are asked to keep noise to a minimum when entering and leaving the room.

During the course of the day each candidate may take one meal break of up to 30 minutes and several smaller breaks of 5 to 10 minutes as required. If you leave the immediate testing area to visit the staff canteen or shop during these breaks, you must notify the administrator and must hand in your writing paper to be recollected on your return.

Any breach of these rules will cause the candidate's assessment to be terminated.

What preparation should I do for the assessments?

The amount and nature of preparation done for selection assessments is at the discretion of individual candidates, however the following information may be of assistance:

Skills Assessment

Performance in the Skills Assessment may be assisted by good hand-eye coordination skills and by familiarity with the six basic aircraft flight instruments (artificial horizon, airspeed indicator, compass, altimeter, vertical speed, and turn and bank indicator).

Psychometric Assessment

The Psychometric Assessment Practice Leaflet contains practice questions, which may assist candidates with advice regarding preparation for the Psychometric Assessment.

Panel Interview

Candidates are advised to read the information provided above regarding the style of interview questions. The amount of preparation appropriate for individual candidates will depend on their current level of knowledge in the relevant areas.

Cadet Flight Test

Preparation for the Cadet Flight Test (Commercial Program candidate's only) is strongly encouraged. The test format is similar to that stipulated by CASA for initial issue of a Commercial (Aeroplane) Pilot Licence (CPL(A)), including the ground component. Competitive candidates will be those who can demonstrate a level of competency which has a margin above the minimum standard required for issue of a CPL(A). A candidate whose skills are not current or may not be to a good CPL(A) standard should consider undertaking remedial or refresher training and study in preparation for the flight test.

Cadet Flight Screening Program

Suitable preparation for the Cadet Flight Screening Program would be individually advised to candidates scheduled to complete this program.

What if I need to change my booking date or time?

Please check your work and personal commitments carefully before finalising an assessment date with recruitment staff. If you have a valid and unexpected need to change a booking date please contact Qantas pilot recruitment staff as soon as possible.

What if I am ill on the day?

If a temporary medical condition or personal circumstance arises which may affect your performance on the day, please notify pilot recruitment staff as soon as possible. In all cases it is essential that you discuss your situation with pilot recruitment staff before the assessment begins.

Is Qantas able to assist with my travel expenses?

Discounted air travel may be available. Further information will be included with confirmation of all appointments for assessment.

Is Qantas able to assist with my accommodation expenses?

Qantas is unable to assist with accommodation expenses associated with Cadet pilot selection assessment.

What happens after the assessment?

Assessment results cannot be discussed with the candidate on the day of assessment. Each candidate will be contacted by letter, fax, phone or e-mail as appropriate within 3 weeks of assessment. Depending upon the competitiveness of the candidate's application, any of the following courses of action may be taken by Qantas:

• The candidate may be contacted to arrange a date for the next stage of assessment.
• The candidate may be advised that their application is still under consideration and that they will be contacted at a later date regarding the progress of their application.
• The candidate may be advised that they have been unsuccessful and that Qantas will not be proceeding any further with their current Cadet application. This result in no way prevents the candidate from making future applications to Qantas as a Cadet or Direct Entry pilot.

What if three weeks have passed since assessment and I have not been contacted?

Please check phone messages, fax machines and e-mails. If you are certain that contact has not been made then please ring the pilot recruitment office on 02 9691 1590. Please do not ring recruitment staff until the full 3 weeks have passed.

Can I receive detailed feedback on my assessment performance?

Corporate policy does not allow Qantas to discuss selection assessment performance or the reasons for selection decisions. Qantas is also unable to release copies of assessment reports or results. We therefore request that candidates do not phone the pilot recruitment office seeking specific feedback on assessment performance.

What happens when I have completed all stages of assessment?

If you have completed all stages of assessment and your file is still under consideration, you will be contacted on or before the "Notification of Outcome date" as set out in the Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule. At this point you will be advised whether or not your application for the Cadet Pilot Program has been successful.