Most applicants can complete the job application in approximately 15 minutes. Applicants must also answer assessment questions for non-supervisory positions and, if interested in being considered for supervisory positions, answer additional assessment questions. It takes approximately 10 minutes to complete each assessment.

All hires for the 2026 Census Test must be able to speak, read, and write in English. Therefore, the application is only available in English.

There is no need to reapply. All qualified applications will remain active for the duration of the 2026 Census Test. You can update your application information by logging in to the account created when you applied.

No. You will need to visit the 2026 Census Test jobs site to apply for 2026 Census Test positions.

You cannot apply without a Social Security number. Visit the Social Security Administration site or contact your local Social Security Administration office to access your information.

If you move after you have received a job offer, the offer may be withdrawn. However, 2026 Census Test jobs may be available in the area to which you moved. If you have not been offered a job, update your address and contact information on your application. Visit our Job Opportunities page for more information on 2026 Census Test job locations.

Your application will not be considered if you do not provide all required information.

You may proceed with your application; however, below are some helpful hints to assist you on your next steps.

Veterans’ Preference Documents: If you want your Veterans’ Preference applied, you must upload the documentation. There are a few options you may consider:

1. Stop the application and return to finish the application once you have your Veterans’ Preference documents available.
2. You may choose to claim “no preference” and still submit your application.
3. You can claim “no preference”, submit your application, then update your application by changing your preference status, uploading the documentation and then resubmitting your application.

Selective Service Documents: If you indicate that you are not required to register, then you can provide an explanation instead of supporting documentation. Your explanation will be reviewed and will likely require additional documentation before your application can be considered.

VSIP/”Buyout” Documents: If you have received a “buyout” in the last five years, via the federal government’s Voluntary Separation Incentive Program (VSIP), you must pay the "buyout" back and provide supporting documentation of repayment or you cannot complete your application.

Federal Annuity Statement Documents: If you have received a federal annuity, then you are required to provide an annuitant statement and Civil Service Annuitant (CSA) number in order to complete your application.

Your application will automatically allow you to be considered for the census taker position. Other positions are much more limited.

Prior to competing the final part of the application package (the assessment questionnaire), you will indicate your interest in other positions. To be considered for supervisory positions, you must answer a second set of assessment questions.

The assessment questions ask applicants to describe their education, work, and other experiences that relate to successful job performance.

Answers to the non-supervisory assessment questions are required for all positions and take approximately 10 minutes to complete. Applicants interested in supervisory positions will be asked an additional set of questions, which take an extra 10 minutes to complete.

Yes, the application and the assessment questions are only available online.

Some examples of the assessment questions for nonsupervisory positions are as follows:

My previous supervisors (or teachers, if not previously employed) would likely describe my self-discipline as:

I dislike being the center of attention.

Here are examples of the supervisory assessment questions.

Which of the following administrative activities have you carried out to ensure others had the materials, supplies, and equipment needed to carry out their work?

(Select all that apply.)

Select the ONE response that represents your highest level of experience analyzing data using computer software (e.g., Excel).

Your answers to the assessment questionnaires will be used along with your background information to determine if you are a good fit for a specific position.

Thank you for your work in the 2020 Census! Although you worked during the 2020 Census, you still need to apply for 2026 Census Test jobs.

You should also consider contacting your local police department if you suspect someone is using your personal information.