PNP Entrance Exam vs. PROMEX: What's the Difference?
NAPOLCOM gives both exams on the same day, but they're for very different people. Here's who takes each one, and what passing it does for you.
The short answer
The PNP Entrance Exam is for people who want to join the PNP. Passing it qualifies you for appointment as a Patrolman or Patrolwoman.
The PNP Promotional Exam (PROMEX) is for police officers already in the service. Passing it gives them the eligibility they need to be promoted to a higher rank.
Side-by-side comparison
| PNP Entrance Exam | PROMEX | |
|---|---|---|
| Who takes it | Civilians aged 21 to 30 with a bachelor's degree, and Patrolmen and Patrolwomen with temporary appointments | Qualified in-service PNP personnel |
| What passing gives you | Eligibility for appointment as Patrolman or Patrolwoman | Eligibility for promotion to a higher rank |
| Schedule | Same day, three hours, 8 to 11 a.m. In 2026, both were held on April 19 and October 18. | |
| What to wear | NAPOLCOM's dress code for civilian examinees | A prescribed PNP uniform, such as the GOA Type C, the patrol shirt, or the field service uniform |
| Passers in April 2026 | 9,224 | 2,969 |
The third NAPOLCOM exam
On the same day, NAPOLCOM also gives the Police Executive Service Eligibility Written Examination (PESE-WE). It's for Police Lieutenant Colonels, and it's the first stage of eligibility for third-level ranks. In April 2026, 179 Police Lieutenant Colonels passed it.
Which exam do you need?
You're not in the PNP yet
Take the PNP Entrance Exam. Read the PNP Entrance Exam 2027 guide to check that you qualify.
You're a Patrolman or Patrolwoman with a temporary appointment
Take the PNP Entrance Exam to get the eligibility your appointment requires.
You're in the service and aiming for promotion
Take PROMEX. The exam is given in levels based on your current rank, so check NAPOLCOM's announcement for the level that applies to you.
PNP Entrance now, PROMEX soon
The app covers the PNP Entrance Exam today. A PROMEX reviewer is coming to the same app.
NAPOLCOM Exam Reviewer is an independent reviewer and is not affiliated with NAPOLCOM or the PNP.