CCAT Assessments

Prepare for your next CCAT test with tailor-made practice materials.

What are CCAT Tests?

Criteria cognitive aptitude tests (CCAT) are designed to test cognitive abilities and as a result, are popular pre-employment screening tests.

The test looks at how well you are able to exercise critical thinking and problem-solving skills through a series of different multiple-choice questions covering verbal reasoning, maths, logic and spatial reasoning.

Candidates must try and answer up to 50 questions in just 15 minutes. The time pressure element of the test increases the test's difficulty, so the best way to improve on both speed and accuracy is to practise as many past tests as possible.

What are the Different Types of CCAT Tests?

There are four different question styles in the CCAT: verbal reasoning, maths, logic and spatial reasoning.

Candidates need to demonstrate they're capable in each discipline so will need to practise in areas and subject matter as diverse as graphs and data, synonyms, antonyms and shape series.

Depending on where your innate skills lie, you may want to spend more time focusing on the areas you struggle with to ensure you don't get stuck on certain questions in the test.

There are no calculators allowed on the CCAT test.

CCAT verbal questions

The CCAT verbal questions are designed to see how well you can read, analyse and comprehend text.

On the test itself, you'll be given things to read and asked questions related to synonyms and antonyms, analogies, and even deductive reasoning.

A strong result in the verbal questions shows you could be a skilled communicator and have a confident grasp of the English language and its nuances.

It's important to note that in each section of the test, you're not expected to answer every question, But you will need to try and complete as many as possible to show you're able to find a good balance between speed and accuracy.

CCAT maths and logic questions

The CCAT maths and logic questions look at a candidate's numerical and problem-solving abilities.

Candidates should brush up on data analysis, graph reading, fractions, shape series, matrices and 'odd one out questions'. Although this covers a range of varied subjects, the key thing to demonstrate is an ability to problem solve, while also knowing when to move on to the next question if the challenge is too great.

Because finishing 50 questions in 15 minutes is so hard, there's no expectation that you need to do so. In fact, you're being evaluated on your ability to work through the test at pace while knowing which questions to make an educated guess on in order to move on to the next section.

CCAT spatial reasoning questions

Spatial reasoning questions evaluate how well a candidate can mentally manipulate two and three-dimensional shapes.

Candidates will need to use limited information to draw conclusions and work with shapes to answer complex non-verbal and non-numerical challenges.

As with all questions on the CCAT test, it's about balancing speed and accuracy with knowing when to make an educated guess and move on to the next question in order to make it through all 50 problems.

How Do I Prepare and Pass the CCAT Test?

Here are our recommendations for how you can prepare for the CCAT test:

Don't skip any questions

Although you won't be expected to accurately answer 50 questions in just 15 minutes, making an educated guess on any you're unsure of is one of the best ways you can help yourself to do well.

The questions are multiple-choice so you can try and eliminate any answers you know to be incorrect before guessing between what's left, or if you're really stuck for time you could even select an answer at random.

Either way, it's important to try and answer every question to give yourself the best chance of a high score.

Practice aptitude tests

Practising aptitude tests is the single best way you can prepare for the CCAT test.

Not only will it instil you with confidence as you'll be familiar with the style and format of the questions, but it'll also help you to improve both your speed and accuracy.

After you practise a test (ideally in exam-style conditions), you need to go back over your answers and find out where you did well, but also where you could make improvements. This will help you to focus and hone your revision in order to get the best results on the day of your real CCAT.

Read questions carefully

Reading each and every question as carefully as you can, will really help minimise any possible mistakes and ensure you have the best possible chance of scoring high marks.

It can be tempting to skim read when you're under such tight time pressure, but that could prove disastrous in the long run if you don't properly understand what's being asked of you.

The more you practise, the better you'll get at reading through the questions quickly but thoroughly.

Sample CCAT Assessments question Test your knowledge!

Score: /6

Which of the boxes comes next in the sequence?

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E

If a car travels 40 miles in an hour and reduces its speed by 5 miles per hour each subsequent hour, how far will it travel in 3 hours?

  • 110 miles
  • 120 miles
  • 130 miles
  • 100 miles

What comes next in the sequence: J1, L2, N4, P8?

  • R16
  • R10
  • S16
  • Q12

A clerk has organized files by labeling them with letters and numbers. If the pattern is A1, B2, C3, and so on, what would be the label for the 20th file?

  • T20
  • U19
  • S21
  • V18

Select the word that does NOT belong with the others:

  • Table
  • Chair
  • Sofa
  • Couch

According to the passage, what is the main reason for the divided public opinion on climate change?

Despite the extensive research on climate change, public opinion remains divided. The discrepancy largely stems from a distinct dichotomy in the portrayal of information by the media; while some outlets present empirical evidence and scientists’ warnings, others focus on industrial perspectives and economic priorities.

  • The economic impact of taking action against climate change
  • The varying portrayal of information in the media
  • The lack of research on the subject
  • Scientists' disagreement on climate change

Build your confidence today

Try one of our CCAT tests for FREE.

I knew I was going to be assessed for my suitability for specific post in the army. Military Aptitude Tests provided me with the confidence and foundational skills I needed.

Tom prepared for his next move within the army using Military Aptitude Tests.

testimonial

CCAT Assessments Tips

Understand the Test Format

Familiarize yourself with the types of questions you'll encounter on the CCAT exam. There are verbal reasoning, math, logic, and spatial reasoning questions.

Practice Time Management

Each CCAT test is timed, so practice working under time constraints to enhance your ability to answer questions quickly and accurately.

Hone Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking and problem-solving are key to succeeding on the CCAT. Engage in activities that challenge these skills.

Free Practice on Military Aptitude Tests

Remember, the best preparation is practice. You can take free practice tests of CCAT exams right here on Military Aptitude Tests to sharpen your skills before the real deal.

Review and Learn from Mistakes

After practicing, always review your answers, especially the incorrect ones. Understanding your mistakes is a crucial step in improving your performance.

Level up

Choose the package that works for you.

Pro

Pay Annually
Pay Monthly
  • 12 Aptitude packages
  • 20 Admissions packages
  • 65 Employer packages
  • 16 Publisher packages
  • Dashboard performance tracking
  • Full solutions and explanations
  • Tips, tricks, guides and resources

  • Access to free tests
  • Basic performance tracking
  • Full solutions and explanations
  • Tips and resources

CCAT Assessments FAQs

How are the results of the CCAT tests used by employers?

Employers use the results of CCAT tests to gauge a candidate's cognitive abilities, like problem solving, critical thinking, and aptitude in various areas. It's part of assessing if a job seeker will be a good fit for a role that requires such skills.

Are the CCAT tests hard?

The CCAT tests can indeed be challenging due to their time constraints and the variety of skills they assess. However, with adequate practice and familiarity with the test format, candidates can improve their chances of performing well.

What do I need to take CCAT tests?

To take CCAT tests, you typically need a quiet environment, a computer, and a stable internet connection. Most importantly, a clear mind and focused attitude will help you get through the test.

What types of tests are included in the CCAT tests?

CCAT tests include a mix of multiple choice questions related to verbal reasoning, math, logic, and spatial reasoning. These are designed to test various aspects of cognitive aptitude.

Where can I practice free CCAT test questions?

Practicing is the best way to prepare for CCAT tests, and Military Aptitude Tests offers a slew of practice tests for free. Take advantage of these resources to boost your confidence and proficiency before the official exam.