CCAT Practice Test

Online pre-employment assessments are becoming more common as companies strive to find the right employees. If you’re looking to get a job, one of the assessments you might have to take is the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT). 

What Is the CCAT? 

The CCAT is often used by well-known companies such as Vista, Marketo, Solera, Crossover, and more to measure critical thinking, cognition, problem-solving skills, and learning capabilities within job applicants.  

This exam is taken on the computer and administered by Criteria’s portal via HireSelect. The test is comprised of 50 questions for which you only have 15 minutes to complete. 

How is the CCAT Scored? 

The CCAT is scored by the number of correct answers you submitted. Unanswered or wrong questions are not counted against your score. After your raw score is calculated, it is converted into a percentile based on a sample of test-takers. This determines where your score falls compared to other test-takers.  

Generally, 28 is the passing score for your standard job pre-assessment, though higher-paying roles may ask for a score of 30. 

The 3 Categories in the CCAT 

There are three categories in the CCAT: Spatial Reasoning, Math and Logic, and Verbal Reasoning. Below we will review each of these categories so that you can familiarize yourself with the exam. 

Spatial Reasoning 

Also known as abstract reasoning, these questions assess how well you use reason to interpret abstract figures and form conclusions. Each shape or figure given must be rotated in your mind to find out what’s missing.  

There are 3 spatial reasoning test types: 

• Shape Sequence  3-5 shapes are shown that you must find the sequence for to identify the next shape. 
• Odd One Out 5 figures are displayed in which you have to identify which figure is unlike the others. 
• Matrix Completion A 3X3 matrix made up of figural elements is shown, but one is missing. You need to select the answer with the missing element. 

Math and Logic 

This question type examines how quickly you can extract logical information from numerical data and use that information to solve problems. Calculators are not permitted in this section, but you may use pencil and paper to brainstorm. There are 5 question types: 

• Direct Calculations Basic math operations are examined. 

• Math Word Problems Written text must be converted into a solvable math problem to be answered. 

• Table and Chart Problems You must analyze data from tables and charts to solve the problems. 

• Number and Letter Series Your job is to find the formula used in a series of numbers or letters and use that formula to find the missing symbol. 

• Critical Thinking Syllogisms are presented for you to evaluate whether or not they are true. 

Verbal Reasoning 

The verbal section assesses your vocabulary to determine your aptitude in communication, reading, and writing. There are 4 question types: 

• Sentence Completion As the most common verbal question type, you will need to fill in the blank within a sentence by choosing the correct word from the answers. 

• Word Analogies These analogies pair two words together with an unspoken relationship. Your job is to figure out that relationship and choose the answer that has the same relationship. 

• Antonyms This section asks you to find the word that means the opposite of the given word. 

• Attention to Detail These questions show you pairs of addresses, companies, names, and other information you might find on the job. You must be able to distinguish which pairs are the same and which are different. 

How to Prepare for the CCAT Exam 

You might be wondering, what can I do to prepare? Fortunately, there are a number of ways that you can successfully prepare for the CCAT.  

1. Take a pre-assessment CCAT exam to familiarize yourself with the layout and test questions.  

2. Practice time management. The CCAT questions are relatively straightforward, but having only 15 minutes to read and answer 50 questions is challenging. Review time-consuming questions from a practice test to find methods for solving them faster. 

3. Focus on what you do well to help you speed through easier questions and designate more time to questions that hold you up. 

4. Study the question types to know what is expected from you. Some of the instructions for questions on the CCAT can be confusing when you’re under pressure, so being well prepared for the kinds of questions on the test can save you time. 

5. Quality over quantity. Since most people do not answer every question, answer as many questions correctly as you can rather than rush to complete all 50.  

CCAT Practice Test – The best way to ace your CCAT exam is by taking a full-length, professional pre-assessment test. Our test preparation material covers everything you need to succeed on your test.  

CCAT Test Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the CCAT test measure? The CCAT measures a candidate’s ability to analyze information, solve problems, and think critically. It tests cognitive abilities in areas such as verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and spatial reasoning.
2. How long is the CCAT test? The CCAT test typically takes about 15 minutes to complete.
3. What is the format of the CCAT test? The CCAT test is a multiple-choice test that consists of 50 questions to be answered within a 15-minute time limit.
4. Is the CCAT test timed? Yes, the CCAT test is timed, and candidates are usually given 15 minutes to complete it.
5. How is the CCAT test scored? The CCAT test is scored based on the number of correct answers, and there is no penalty for incorrect answers. The score is then compared to the scores of other candidates to determine their relative cognitive abilities and potential.
6. Is there a passing score for the CCAT test? There is no specific passing score for the CCAT test as it is designed to assess a candidate’s potential relative to other candidates. The scores are usually used by employers to make hiring decisions and determine a candidate’s suitability for the role they are applying for.

How to Solve 50 Questions in 12 Minutes

The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is a popular pre-employment assessment tool used by many organizations to measure a candidate’s cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and learning potential. The test consists of 50 questions that must be answered in 15 minutes, which can be a daunting task for many test-takers. However, with the right approach, it is possible to solve all 50 questions in just 12 minutes. Here’s how:

1. Understand the format of the CCAT

The CCAT is a multiple-choice test consisting of 50 questions that cover various cognitive abilities. Each question has five answer choices, and you must select the option that best answers the question.

2. Practice beforehand

To perform well on the CCAT, you need to be familiar with the test format and types of questions. Practice with sample tests and time yourself to get used to the pressure of answering quickly.

3. Read the instructions carefully

Before starting the test, make sure you read the instructions carefully to understand how to answer the questions and how much time you have for each section.

4. Prioritize easy questions

As you begin the test, prioritize the questions that are easier and quicker to answer. Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions, as they will only eat up your time and prevent you from answering the easier ones.

5. Skip difficult questions

If you come across a question that is particularly difficult or time-consuming, skip it and move on to the next one. You can always come back to it later if you have time.

6. Manage your time

Since you only have 12 minutes to answer 50 questions, you need to manage your time effectively. Keep an eye on the clock and make sure you are on track to answer all the questions in the allotted time.

7. Don’t get stuck on one question

If you are struggling with a question, don’t get stuck on it for too long. Move on to the next question and come back to it later if you have time.

8. Eliminate wrong answer choices

If you are unsure of the answer to a question, eliminate the answer choices that are clearly incorrect. This will increase your chances of selecting the right answer.

9. Use logic and common sense

Many CCAT questions require you to use logic and common sense to arrive at the correct answer. Don’t overthink the questions or second-guess yourself.

10. Stay focused

Finally, stay focused and avoid distractions during the test. Concentrate on the questions at hand and do your best to answer them quickly and accurately.

By following these tips, you can improve your chances of solving all 50 questions in just 12 minutes and achieving a high score on the CCAT. Good luck!