What is an aptitude test?
An aptitude test measures how well you reason, not what you have learned. Employers use them early in hiring, often as an online test sent after you apply, to compare applicants fairly before interviews.
They are usually timed and multiple choice. You will see them for graduate schemes, apprenticeships, office and customer-service roles, finance, the public sector and many other jobs.
The main types of aptitude test
- Verbal reasoning: word meanings, analogies and understanding written information
- Numerical reasoning: arithmetic, percentages, rates and reading data
- Abstract reasoning: finding the rule in a pattern of shapes and choosing what comes next
- Logical reasoning: drawing conclusions from statements, ordering and codes
Some employers add mechanical, spatial or situational judgement questions for particular roles. Your invitation usually says which kinds of question to expect.
How are aptitude tests scored?
Most aptitude tests count your correct answers and compare that with a group of people who took the same test, giving you a percentile. A result at the 70th percentile means you scored higher than 70% of that group.
Employers usually look for a score above a cut-off they set for the role, or compare you with the other applicants. Our practice tests show your score, your percentile and your result in each section, so you can see where to focus.
How to prepare for an aptitude test
- Find out which test you will take. The invitation often names the test or the publisher, and the types of question it includes.
- Practise each type of question. Abstract pattern questions in particular get much easier once you know the common rules.
- Practise against the clock. Most aptitude tests are timed, and working fast without rushing is a skill you can build.
- Read every word. Questions often turn on a single word such as not, all or some.
- Keep moving. If a question is taking too long, make your best guess and go on to the next one.
- Check the rules on wrong answers. Most aptitude tests do not take marks off for wrong answers, so guessing is usually better than leaving a blank, but follow the instructions you are given.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good aptitude test score?
Aptitude tests are usually judged by percentile rather than a fixed pass mark. Above the 50th percentile is above average for the comparison group. Employers set their own cut-offs, so the score you need depends on the role.
Can you fail an aptitude test?
There is no universal pass mark, but an employer may not move you to the next stage if your score is below the level they set for that job. Practice helps you show your real ability instead of losing marks to nerves or time pressure.
How long is an aptitude test?
It depends on the employer and the test. Many take between 10 and 40 minutes per section. Our free sample is 10 questions in 10 minutes in timed mode, and the full practice test is 30 questions in 30 minutes.
Is this aptitude test free?
Yes. The 10-question sample, your score and your percentile are free with no sign-up. Full-length practice tests are part of the Job Test Pass.
Are these questions from real aptitude tests?
No. We write every question ourselves to practise the same skills, and our pattern puzzles are generated from rules and then checked. See how we write and score questions.