So, you’re thinking about applying to the RCMP? First of all—awesome decision. It’s a bold and rewarding path. But before you suit up, you’ll need to go through the RCMP suitability interview process, one of the key steps in becoming a Mountie.
As Managing Director of anEDGE, Canada’s top law enforcement interview coaching company, I get daily questions about the RCMP interview process. People want to know what to expect and whether it’s called the Regular RCMP interview or the RCMP Suitability Interview. I’m here to break it down and help you succeed. Let’s dive in.
If you’re wondering what it’s like or how to prep for it, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the RCMP interview process in a way that actually makes sense—and helps you walk in with confidence.
What Is the RCMP Suitability Interview?
The RCMP suitability interview process is all about figuring out if you have what it takes to be an RCMP police officer—not just in terms of skills, but also in terms of mindset, values, and past behaviour.
There are two main parts:
- The Attribute Evaluation Interview
- The Regular Member Applicant Questionnaire (RMAQ)
Let’s talk about each.
The Attribute Evaluation Interview: Show Off Your Potential
This part of the RCMP interview process is focused on your abilities and personality. Think of it like a regular job interview, but with a behavioural twist.
The RCMP wants to see if you naturally demonstrate the four key traits that every constable needs:
- Problem Solving: Can you think critically and act quickly?
- Teamwork: Do you work well with others to get the job done?
- Communication: Can you clearly express yourself and listen actively?
- Self-Control & Composure: Can you stay calm under pressure, even when things get intense?
Expect Behavioural Questions during the RCMP interview process
You won’t just get hypothetical “what would you do” questions. Instead, they’ll ask how you’ve handled real situations in your past. For example:
“Tell me about a time you had to overcome an obstacle.”
To answer, you’ll want to use the STAR method:
- Situation – What happened?
- Task – What did you need to do?
- Action – What did you do?
- Result – What was the outcome?
Practicing this method ahead of time will help you sound sharp and focused.
The RMAQ: Your Past Matters
The second part of the RCMP suitability interview process is the Regular Member Applicant Questionnaire (RMAQ). This one digs into your background—your past actions, choices, and behaviour.
And heads up: honesty matters a lot here. The RCMP will be looking at:
- What you disclose about past behaviour (even mistakes)
- How recent those events were
- Whether they happened once or are part of a pattern
They’re not expecting perfection. They expect honesty and accountability. Be real, own your experiences, and show what you’ve learned.
Tips to Nail the RCMP Interview Process
- Know the competencies. Think about times you’ve solved problems, stayed calm under stress, worked on a team, or communicated clearly. Write those stories down.
- Practice STAR responses. Rehearse out loud. Don’t just think through your answers—say them. You’ll sound more confident on the day.
- Be honest. Especially during the RMAQ portion. Integrity is a huge deal in this role.
- Don’t overthink your background. Everyone has a past. The RCMP wants to know how you’ve grown from yours.
Final Thoughts
The RCMP suitability interview process might seem intimidating, but it’s just about showing who you are—and proving that you’ve got the qualities that make a great officer. With some prep and self-awareness, you’ve got a real shot.
At anEDGE, our expert team of law enforcement officers and human resource specialists coach applicants weekly through the RCMP Suitability Interview process. We know exactly what the RCMP is looking for—and how to help you stand out. Whether it’s your first try or a retake, we got your back. Ready to crush your RCMP interview? Reach out to anEDGE today.
Remember: they’re not just hiring a résumé—they’re hiring a person. Be ready to show them the best version of yourself
