Available funds, announced by the lead examiner, are insufficient to fund all projects. The group exercise measures oral communication, objectivity and integrity, ability to work with others, information integration and analysis, planning and organizing, judgment, initiative, leadership, and composure. They have the ability to integrate information not just about their own projects but also about projects presented by their colleagues. They may suggest original ideas and solutions. A good leader can draw out others and help move the group to consensus.
Participation is essential to successful performance.
Examiners cannot judge qualities they cannot see. Even if a candidate presents a clear project, lack of involvement in the discussion phase can make the difference when the scores are assessed. After the group exercise, the following individual exercises will be conducted with reference to the applicant's DS-1950, Statement of Interest and stated conal preference. Candidates may and are encouraged to respond based on background, experience and motivation. This portion of the assessment consists of three testing modules lasting a total of approximately one hour.