The NATS ATC Assessment Centre: What to Expect

If you pass Stages 1 and 2 of the NATS ATC selection process, you will be invited to the Stage 3 Assessment Centre. For the 2026 campaign it is followed by a Stage 4 practical exercise. Here is what to expect.

Format

NATS says the Stage 3 assessment centre is held virtually via Microsoft Teams. It includes:

Earlier campaigns also included a group exercise, which NATS no longer lists. The format is confirmed in your invitation, so always check it.

Computer-Based Aptitude Re-Tests

You will be required to repeat elements of the Stage 1 battery under observation. The purpose is to verify that the Stage 1 result was genuine — assessors want to see that you perform consistently whether tested remotely or in an observed environment.

These tests are the same format as Stage 1: spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, and related cognitive exercises. If you found Stage 1 challenging, continue practicing before the assessment centre.

The Competency Interview

The NATS interview is competency-based — you will be asked to provide specific examples from your life demonstrating the behaviours NATS looks for in ATC candidates. Common competency areas include:

Use the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for all competency answers. Prepare three to five strong examples from work, study or voluntary activities, and practice delivering them confidently.

The Air Traffic Control Knowledge Test

Candidates are tested on air traffic control material. Candidate reports describe receiving pre-learning material to study beforehand; NATS does not publish it, so study whatever you are sent carefully and give yourself time to learn it rather than cram. Getting comfortable with ATC basics — the phonetic alphabet, flight levels and altimetry, runway designators and common phraseology — makes new material far easier to absorb.

After the Assessment Centre

Successful candidates move on to the Stage 4 practical exercise, held virtually or at the NATS office in Whiteley. Offers are then subject to the Class 3 ATCO medical and security vetting.

Tips for Assessment Centre Success

1. Revise your Stage 1 test skills. You will sit the aptitude tests again — continued practice pays off.

2. Prepare STAR examples. Have at least five strong examples ready covering pressure, teamwork, attention to detail, decision-making and communication.

3. Research the NATS values and the ATC role. Know what the job involves, why you want it, and what you know about NATS as an organisation.

4. Study the pre-learning material properly. Spread it over several days and test yourself on it without your notes.