What Is The NZDF Aptitude Test?
As well as a rigorous interview and background checking process, the New Zealand Defence Force requires every interested applicant to take, and pass, a selection of NZDF aptitude tests.
There are seven different aptitude test sections, but you won't be asked to take all of them. Your tests will be selected depending on which careers you're interested in applying for.
The results of the aptitude tests determine whether you're eligible for a place in the NZDF, but also which particular roles and responsibilities you'd be best suited to. This means that putting the work in beforehand and doing your best on the test is really important if you want to increase the opportunities and jobs available to you.
How Is The NZDF Aptitude Tests formatted?
The aptitude tests are completed online, with a mix of multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks and short free-form answers. Candidates are given seven days to complete the assessments, and if you are successful you will be invited to an assessment day (commonly known as A-Day).
New Zealand Defence Force Aptitude Tests
NZDF Numerical Ability Test
The numerical ability test is designed to assess how comfortable you are working with numbers and basic mathematical principles.
You'll need to show you can work out the basic relationship between a series of numbers by filling in the blanks with the answer you believe to be correct.
Want to know more about the Numerical Ability Test? Check out our full page here.
NZDF Inductive Reasoning Test
The inductive reasoning is there to give NZDF employers a sense of your general mental ability.
Inductive reasoning tests are non-verbal. Instead of words or numbers, they require you to make sense of a seemingly random pattern or sequence by using logic to determine its governing rules.
Click here to find out more about the Inductive Reasoning Test.
NZDF Deductive Reasoning Test
Just like inductive reasoning tests, deductive reasoning tests use patterns and shapes to draw out how able you are to work with patterns and sequences.
The main difference between inductive and deductive reasoning is that the inductive test is about developing theories based on limited information, while the deductive reasoning part of the test is about putting the theory to the test.
For more information on the Deductive Reasoning Test, check out our full page.
NZDF Mechanical Comprehension
The mechanical comprehension test is designed to probe your understanding of general mechanical theories and principles — which is really important for many roles within the New Zealand Defence Force.
Most of the questions will consist of diagrams and illustrations with accompanying questions that put your knowledge of mechanical theories to the test.
Take a look at this full guide to learn more about the Mechanical Comprehension test.
Top Tips To Pass NZDF Aptitude Tests
1. Brush up on your knowledge
Before taking any past tests, it's a good idea to revisit all of the theories and principles you're likely to see come up on the aptitude test. Once you've got a better grasp on what you're being tested on, you'll be in a good position to take a mock test and see how you do.
2. Practice past tests
Taking past tests is the best way you can prepare yourself for A-Day. Not only will you familiarise yourself with the questions and the speed at which you'll need to work through them, you'll also improve your accuracy and confidence.
3. Think outside the box
Practising past tests can get dull. So if you find your attention waning, why not mix up your learning? You might find you take in a lot more if you look at mechanical principles in practice, try out your inductive reasoning skills on a game or bring mental maths and number work into your day-to-day activities.
4. Keep calm
Tests are stressful and there's nothing worse than feeling like your mind has gone blank or you don't know the answer to a particular problem. Make sure you read through every question thoroughly and take plenty of deep breaths if you feel yourself panicking. If you're unsure, make an educated guess rather than leave an answer blank.
5. Visualise the end goal
At the end of the day, the more work you put in the more you'll get out of the test. Not only in terms of your test score, but also the additional opportunities that may open up to you if you do well. Remember that the better you score across the board, the more career options you'll have.
