Learning how to pass OPP interview is one of the most important — and challenging — steps in your hiring journey. This process is designed to evaluate not only your experience but also your character, judgment, and fit for policing in Ontario.
At anEDGE, we specialize in OPP interview coaching and preparation. Our national team includes former OPP recruiters and law-enforcement professionals who’ve sat on the other side of the interview table. After coaching hundreds of successful applicants, we’ve identified what sets top performers apart from the rest.
Here are 10 proven tips from our coaching team to help you pass your OPP interview with confidence.
How to Pass OPP Interview: Our 10 Top Tips
1. Understand the Two Interview Types: LFI and ECI The OPP uses two main interviews:
- LFI (Local Focus Interview) – evaluates your motivation, community involvement, and understanding of policing.
- ECI (Essential Competency Interview) – measures specific OPP competencies such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, and leadership.
Knowing the difference — and preparing for each stage — is a key part of how to pass OPP interview and gives you a serious advantage
2. Learn the STAR Method Inside and Out Every behavioural question in the ECI is scored using the STAR framework: Situation – Task – Action – Result.
Practice explaining real examples step-by-step. Focus on your personal actions and what changed because of your decisions. That’s how interviewers measure competency.
3. Match Your Answers to OPP Core Competencies Before your interview, study the OPP’s published core competencies. These include:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem Solving
- Leadership
- Resiliency
- Inclusivity
- Professionalism
When you give examples, clearly connect your story to one or more of these. This shows alignment with OPP values — something we emphasize heavily in anEDGE’s interview coaching sessions.
4. Practice Saying Your Answers Out Loud Many applicants write their answers but never speak them before interview day.
Rehearse aloud — ideally with someone who can give feedback. It builds confidence, improves flow, and helps you sound natural instead of memorized.
5. Use Real, Personal Examples Avoid hypothetical or generic answers. OPP recruiters want to hear about real experiences that show who you are.
At anEDGE, we help you identify stories that best demonstrate your judgment, teamwork, and ethics — even from older experiences that still highlight strong decision-making.
6. Show That You Understand Modern Policing The OPP values professionalism, diversity, and empathy.
When answering questions, show your understanding of:
- De-escalation and communication
- Ethical decision-making
- Cultural awareness
- Serving diverse communities
Applicants who demonstrate this awareness stand out for the right reasons.
7. Be Honest About Weaknesses (But End Positively) If asked about mistakes or challenges, don’t deflect. Acknowledge what happened, take responsibility, and focus on what you learned and how you’ve grown. Recruiters value honesty and self-awareness — two key traits of a strong officer.
8. Manage Time and Structure Keep your STAR answers focused — roughly two to three minutes each.
If your responses run long, practice tightening them up without losing impact. Concise, structured storytelling is a hallmark of a prepared candidate.
Concise, structured storytelling is a hallmark of a candidate who knows how to pass OPP interview
9. Research and Respect the Panel Everything counts — from your first email to how you greet the panel.
Be professional, courteous, and confident. Remember, the OPP assesses not just your answers but your overall demeanor and composure.
10. Get Constructive Feedback Before the Real Interview Most applicants never test their answers under realistic conditions.
That’s where anEDGE comes in. Our 1-on-1 mock interview sessions simulate the real OPP panel experience — with former OPP recruiters providing feedback on your structure, clarity, and scoring potential.
Final Tip: Don’t Leave Your OPP Interview to Chance
At anEDGE, we’re proud to be Canada’s leading OPP interview coaching company, and we know how to pass OPP interview processes inside and out.
Our team of former police recruiters and HR professionals coach applicants through both the Local Focus Interview (LFI) and Essential Competency Interview (ECI) — giving you insider insight and proven strategies to perform your best.
Learn more about our OPP Interview Coaching & Preparation Program