Online tests

Online tests are used by some employers to help them select candidates. Sometimes called psychometric tests, they are often used early in the application process to determine which applicants progress to the next stage. Not all employers use tests but many do, and if you are asked to take one, it’s important to understand what they involve to ensure you are fully prepared. Read the following article to understand the different types of tests, what you can do to prepare, and to access our practice tests.

Employers use tests in recruitment to:

Different employers use different tests and the main types are:

Aptitude tests assess skills such as numerical or verbal reasoning, critical thinking, and logical or abstract reasoning. Depending which aptitude is being tested, the tests give you some text, numerical data or abstract symbols, followed by multiple choice questions based on this information. Your task is to select the correct options, under strict time conditions. You may be asked to take a series of different tests which assess different aptitudes.

Some employers use personality inventories to assess if you have certain personal qualities required for the job and organisation. They provide you with a series of statements and you need to select those that best describe you or how you typically behave. As it’s not easy to second guess what traits the employer is looking for, it’s best to answer each item honestly.

SJTs assess how you would respond to situations that are relevant to the job and employer you are applying for. Each question presents a realistic work situation with several possible actions you might take in response, and you need to decide what to do. When making your judgement, you will therefore need to take into account the role you are applying for and the values of the organisation.

Some employers’ tests take the form of simple video games rather than the traditional format of ‘static’ questions on a screen. Games-based exams can test aptitudes, behavioural traits, and situational judgement within a suite of tests. You navigate a series of on-screen tasks, following the instructions in each game. If you don’t play video games regularly don’t worry, as research shows that experienced gamers are not at an advantage.

Whatever tests you face, employers will normally provide you with the dates when you can sit them, with instructions and practice examples. However, before then, it’s best to do some preparation.

The trick to doing well is understanding how tests work and then to practise. If you’re new to tests or find them hard, don't be tempted to just go straight into doing timed practice tests. Start by reading about them and doing un-timed example questions which explain the answers, so you understand the questions you got wrong. Once you’re confident, then sit practice timed tests via Graduates First (details below).

For verbal reasoning tests, practise by reading well-argued articles on unfamiliar topics, especially if you are not used to analysing lots of written information

For numerical reasoning, revise how to do calculations such as percentages, ratios and fractions, and (re)familiarise yourself with using a calculator. There’s help with numeracy from MASH, the University’s Maths and Statistics Help.

If you are a disabled or dyslexic student you can disclose this to an employer ahead of the test date. They should then make reasonable adjustments to the process, e.g. providing you with additional time or making tests available in alternative formats.

Online tests are challenging, so concentrate and expect to work hard. However, don’t worry if you didn't answer every question. Not finishing doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll fail, as only a small percentage of candidates will complete all the answers.

Afterwards, you will be told if you can progress to the next selection stage. If the tests are alongside an interview, your test results will be considered together with the interview and any other exams, to decide whether to offer you the job.

Not passing a test does not mean you will be unsuccessful in the future. Other employers may use different tests or set different pass marks and it is common for applicants not to pass. Remember, further practice often leads to improvement.

Use the resources listed below to help, or contact us to discuss your results.

1. Read online articles with example questions such as the tutorials on the Assessment Day website.

2. Take practice tests. Through our partnership with Graduates First, you have free access to:

You will need to register using your University of Sheffield email address. Please read the Graduates First Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy before you do so.

If you are a graduate, use your old University of Sheffield email address and then email us at careers@sheffield.ac.uk with your name, registration number, department and graduation date and ask us to activate your account.

Graduates First provides exam preparation resources, including detailed step-by-step advice on top graduate employers’ recruitment stages.

Calculus Readiness Test Practice Test

The questions that follow are designed to make prospective students aware of the mathematics background required for those intending to take one of the SFU Calculus courses: MATH 150, 151, 154 or 157. The actual test will cover the same concepts as this practice test does, but the questions will be different. For more information about the expectations, read Calculus Readiness Test Assessment Topics.

If you do not achieve a passing score on the actual test, we recommend that you enroll in Math 100 course, Precalculus.

Treat the Practice Calculus Readiness Test as a learning experience: if your answer to a question is incorrect, make sure that you understand the concept the question is related to before attempting the actual test.

You should be aware of the following conditions when you attempt this practice test:

First Responders Visit Practice

The Capitals community ranges far and wide but sometimes it's important to recognize those that do so much for us right in our backyard.

At practice on Tuesday, the team hosted several members of Arlington County Police and Fire Departments, DC Fire and EMS Departments, Metropolitan Police Department and the Virginia Sheriff's Department.

They got a tour of the locker room, watched practice by the glass, mingled with all the players and took photos post practice, it's a very special experience for these first responders.

Lawrence Clark who is a Lieutenant with DC Fire and EMS said, "I really didn't know what to expect, but it was a great experience and it shows the community how the Capitals appreciate what we do and vice versa. It brings it all together."

There was another special guest in attendance at practice on Tuesday as well: Captain!

Socializing him with different kinds of people and in different situations is an important part of his training with America's Vet Dogs so it was good practice to have him around today.

Once Captain completes his training he will be given to a veteran or first responder with disabilities, so the guests today really connected with him.

One of the first responders that was present who is also a staple at Capitals practices is Bryan Morrison. He's a Sergeant with the Arlington County Police Department and is in charge of their K-9 Unit.

"He's [Captain] phenomenal, dogs are great, they have a lot of healing power and I'm sure he's going to do well," he said. "They bring out the best in people."

Additionally, the first responders are being honored at different home games this season.

Firefighters Night will be on Nov. 3 vs. Calgary and Law Enforcement Appreciation Night will be on Feb. 25 vs. Winnipeg.

Discounted tickets are being offered to members of each community and you can purchase those tickets by clicking here.

All tickets purchased through the special offer will receive a limited-edition Capitals challenge coin and a portion of the proceeds benefit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.