Psychometric Tests
Psychometric testing is typically used by large employers as part of the recruitment process for graduate schemes, placements and internships. It can happen early in the recruitment process during initial screening, or later at an assessment centre. Tests usually consist of multiple-choice questions and are timed, so time management is very important. Tests are scored, and you must achieve a certain score to pass.
Why are Psychometric Tests Used?
Testing helps the employer to:
- Identify the applicants best suited to the role
- See if applicants are a good fit for the company culture
- Screen large numbers of applicants without having to interview everyone
There are two main types of testing: personality and aptitude. Personality tests generally assess how you think, your motivations, interests, and values. Aptitude tests assess your knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the job role. Depending on the role’s requirements, employers will decide which types of testing to use. Some employers use fun forms of psychometric testing called gamification, in which abilities and personality are assessed through interactive games.
What are the Different Types of Tests Used?
Tests you may encounter include the following:
- Numerical reasoning – your ability to interpret charts, graphs, data, statistics etc.
- Verbal reasoning – your ability to understand written information and communicate concepts. Spelling and grammar may also be assessed.
- Abstract or spatial reasoning – your ability to quickly assess patterns and shapes
- Situational Judgement Tests (SJT) – your ability to assess workplace scenarios and choose how you would act from given options
- Personality – behavioural questions to predict how you might act in the workplace (no wrong or right answers)
- Error testing – your ability to spot errors, for example in a data set or a paragraph of text
- Technical tests – often used in the STEM sector drawing on other psychometric tests to solve a technical problem
How Can I Prepare for a Psychometric Test?
The best way to prepare is to practice with free tests. Practice tests can help you:
- Understand types of questions asked and patterns used
- Familiarise you with test instructions and understand how tasks work
- Get you more comfortable with test anxiety and build confidence
- Increase your test speed
- Get into the habit of being yourself when answering personality questions and not trying to be someone else
Where Can I Access Free Tests?
To access free tests, more tips and information, use the following resources. Always read details on sites carefully as some sites have both free testing and tests to buy. Click on ‘free tests’ to avoid charges.
- Arctic Shores : A thorough overview of psychometric tests and how to prepare
- Prospects UK: Test information and list of sites offering free testing, sample questions and answers
- Practice Aptitude Tests: Practice psychometric tests, plus industry specific tests e.g., accounting, law, media, sales etc.
- SHL: Test examples with answers for all test types including calculation test, numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, personality questionnaire, situational judgement
- National Careers Service: Information around how to prepare and links to free practice tests
Disability and Psychometric Testing
Psychometric tests can present challenges for some disabled candidates. They are typically time-limited, text-heavy, and it can be difficult to demonstrate your full potential if you have processing difficulties. You should be able to request reasonable adjustments to reduce or even remove any potential barriers.
- Psychometric tests – A guide for disabled candidates: An overview of things to consider and adjustments that can be made.
- Can psychometric tests be inclusive? An article from Forbes explaining some of the barriers created by psychometric tests.
If you feel you will require adjustments to psychometric testing, we recommend the following resources:
- Disabled Student Information and Advice: Further information about reasonable adjustments and disability specific support
- MyPlus Student Club: Disability career guides and templates
You might find it helpful to attend our ‘How to talk to an employer about a disability’ workshop. Please look for workshop dates on our Events calendar. If you would like an appointment to discuss this, please visit our Access Appointments and Support section of our website or email careers@lincoln.ac.uk.