With the rise of job applications through the internet, increasingly employers are looking towards online assessments to act as another metric to measure candidates.
What Are Online Assessments?
Depending on the role or company, you might face:
- Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs) – How would you respond in a tricky work situation?
- Numerical Reasoning – Can you interpret data under pressure?
- Verbal Reasoning – Can you quickly understand written information?
- Diagrammatic/Logical Reasoning – Can you spot patterns and think critically?
- Gamified Tests – Think mini-games designed to measure attention, memory, and personality traits.
Why Do Employers Use Them?
Because they’re:
- Fast – Quickly filter large applicant pools
- Objective – Score-based, reducing unconscious bias
- Gatekeepers – If you don’t hit the score, you may be auto-rejected before anyone even reads your application
You could be out before your CV ever gets opened.
What It Means For You
If you do well, these assessments can actually:
- Push you to the top of the pile
- Secure you an interview (even if your CV isn’t perfect)
In ultra-competitive roles, “average” isn’t enough - many employers only progress candidates in the top percentile of scorers.
“No Preparation Needed”?
Some companies say you don’t need to prep. But the reality?
Preparation = Advantage
Especially if:
- You’ve noticed you’re not getting past the test stage
- You haven’t taken one before
- You’re applying to a highly competitive role or company
Practical Ways to Prepare for Online Assessments
Research the Assessment Provider:
Many companies outsource their online assessments to third-party providers (e.g., Arctic Shores). If you can identify the assessment provider (try a quick search on Google, YouTube, or by asking others who have taken the test) it can give you valuable insight into the question style and what to expect.
Align Your Answers with Company Values
Carefully review the job description and familiarise yourself with the company’s core values. Tailor your responses, particularly in situational judgement questions, to reflect these values.
For example, if the company places a strong emphasis on integrity, ensure your answers demonstrate honesty and ethical decision-making.
Make Use of Practice Assessments
Use the online practice assessments to get really good at these tests. Practising online assessments can significantly improve your performance.
Here is a range of online resources designed to help you master these tests.
Note: Your university will often pay for practice tests so do make sure to check with careers service
Disclaimer:The provided descriptions may not be fully accurate at the time you visit.
