Career Snapshot - Online Tests
Many employers incorporate online tests into their recruitment processes, particularly for internships and graduate positions. These assessments may include psychometric tests, such as numerical, verbal, or diagrammatic reasoning, as well as Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs). Some assessments are even presented in a gamified format, making the experience more interactive and engaging. Additionally, you might be asked to complete more specialized tests, such as coding assessments or personality evaluations, depending on the role.
In this section, you will find resources on how to best prepare for these tests and links to practice test websites. Watch the video Career Snapshot - Online Tests
Online Tests Tabs
Online tests are reliable, valid, and objective tools for measuring aptitude, personality traits, or technical skills that relate to the role, and allow for accurate comparisons between candidates. Usually conducted online, they often appear early in the recruitment process and range from relatively short timed psychometric tests to a few days in which to complete a coding exercise.
- Aptitude or Ability Tests – these assess specific skills needed for a role, with questions typically involving verbal, numerical, and diagrammatic reasoning. The required academic knowledge is often basic, but the question formats may be unfamiliar. Practice is the best way to improve.
- Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs) – these assess your problem-solving approach in workplace scenarios. You'll choose or rank responses to a hypothetical situation. Our top tip is to align your answers with the organization’s values, consider ethical aspects, and be aware of industry trends. Focus on what benefits the business, clients, and team.
- Personality Questionnaires – these assess characteristics to identify candidates best suited for a role and help employers decide which team or department you might join if hired. There are no right or wrong answers, but your responses reveal if your personality fits the ideal candidate profile. These untimed assessments can’t be prepared for and feel less like an exam. Follow the instructions and respond naturally without second-guessing.
- Game-based Assessments – these use puzzles and simulations to evaluate skills like logic, problem-solving, and decision-making. Preparation is challenging due to the unpredictability of the tests. While scoring and time limits add enjoyment, consider what traits the organization is assessing. For instance, a high score from risk-taking may not be ideal if caution is preferred. Read instructions carefully, be yourself, and enjoy the process.
These tests are designed to be fair and not influenced by prior gaming experience. The same games may be used by different employers, but scoring systems are tailored to each role, so results can vary between applications.
- Virtual Reality (VR) – a growing number of employers use VR to create immersive, interactive assessment environments. Candidates may tackle simulated workplace scenarios such as preparing for a meeting using some provided items, or may consist of in imaginative challenges, such as breaking into a vault or Egyptian tomb!
- Immersive Assessments – these may combine elements from a variety of the tests listed above. You may be required to answer SJTs questions, undertake psychometric tests, or tackle written assessments. You may have to watch videos, listening to recorded messages, or respond to emails, all designed to more accurately replicate the workplace and assess your role suitability.
- Coding assessments - in fields related to software development, data science, or engineering, you may be required to take various types of coding tests. These assess your programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and how well you can apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, and could include coding challenges, bug fixing, system design or technical screening questions.
Whichever type of test you encounter follow this advice. Use a range of practice resources to become adept at different types of tests and scenarios. It is good practice to review the organization's values, read related business report, and practise extracting key information from paragraphs of text through speed reading. Treat the test like an exam, taking it in a quiet, distraction-free environment.