The Virtual Entry Assessment MP (476) is an employment test used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to screen candidates applying for Mail Processing Clerk positions. This exam evaluates an applicant’s ability to handle the core responsibilities of sorting and processing mail in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. It replaces the older version of the 476 test and is a required step in the USPS hiring process.
What is the USPS 476 Assessment?
The 476 exam is officially called the Virtual Entry Assessment – MP (Mail Processor). It is administered online and is typically completed within 45 to 60 minutes. Candidates usually receive an email invitation to take the test within a few days of submitting their application. It must be completed within 72 hours (3 days), or the applicant may be disqualified from consideration.
The test includes four main sections:
- Work Scenarios – Situational judgment questions that assess how you would handle real-life work situations typical for USPS employees.
- Tell Us Your Story – A background questionnaire that looks at your work history and experience.
- Describe Your Approach – A personality test that evaluates your preferred working style and behavioral tendencies.
- Check for Errors – Tests your attention to detail by asking you to identify discrepancies between sets of data.
USPS 476 Assessment Score
The 476 exam is scored on a scale of 0 to 100. To be considered for a position, applicants must typically score at least 70. However, USPS uses a ranking system where higher scores are prioritized, meaning the closer your score is to 100, the better your chances of moving forward.
Applicants who fail the test may have to wait 12 months before reapplying. Therefore, preparing ahead of time is crucial.
How to Prepare
- Practice situational judgment and personality tests to understand how your responses are evaluated.
- Be consistent in your answers, especially in personality-related sections.
- Brush up on attention-to-detail skills, as this section is key to sorting accuracy in a real mailroom environment.
Scoring well on the USPS 476 is essential to securing a mail processing position. Preparation, honest self-assessment, and focus during the exam can significantly improve your success rate.
Frequently Asked Questions – USPS 476 Assessment
Q1: What is the USPS Virtual Entry Assessment MP (476)?
A: The USPS 476 Assessment is an online test required for applicants applying to the Mail Processing Clerk position. It evaluates your situational judgment, work experience, personality traits, and attention to detail.
Q2: How long does the test take?
A: The test typically takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete. You must finish it within 72 hours of receiving the invitation link from USPS.
Q3: What is a passing score on the USPS 476 test?
A: A score of 70 or higher is generally considered passing. However, USPS ranks candidates by score, so higher scores improve your chances of being hired.
Q4: Can I retake the exam if I fail?
A: If you do not pass, you must wait 12 months before you can retake the assessment and reapply for the same position.
Q5: What sections are on the USPS 476 test?
A: The test includes:
- Work Scenarios (Situational Judgment)
- Tell Us Your Story (Experience/Background)
- Describe Your Approach (Personality Traits)
- Check for Errors (Attention to Detail)
Q6: Is the USPS 476 test difficult?
A: The difficulty varies by individual, but preparation is key. Practicing sample questions and understanding USPS job expectations can help improve your score.
Q7: Can I use a calculator or reference materials?
A: No. The test must be taken unaided and under the conditions provided. Use of calculators or outside help is not permitted.
Q8: How will I receive my test results?
A: USPS typically sends your results via email within a few hours to a few days after completing the test.
