Have you ever considered taking an aptitude test as part of the job seeking process? The results from these tests can help you learn more about your skills and passions so you can find a career that’s fulfilling to you.
Stay tuned as we explain aptitude tests, what you can learn from them, and where you can take one to help you further your job search.
What is an aptitude test?
An aptitude test systematically evaluates a person’s ability to perform certain tasks and react to a variety of unique situations through timed multiple-choice questions.
These tests are often used by employers or educators to help place employees and students in roles best suited for their unique skill sets, but they can also be used by job seekers to help narrow down their career options based on the results.
What can you learn from your results?
There are several different types of aptitude tests, all which can help you learn more about your personality, skills, and abilities for the workforce. Here are just a few examples of what an aptitude test can tell you.
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If you’re on the right career path. Some aptitude tests are industry-specific. If you’ve dreamed of being a computer programmer but are finding the job isn’t what you expected, it may be that you’re in the wrong field (maybe). An aptitude test can help you discover that a career in web design is more suited for your talents. You might feel like you don’t know what to do with your life (don’t worry, that’s common) or you might want to change careers but don’t know what to do; an aptitude test can point you toward a career path you might enjoy.
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If your social skills match expectations. Aptitude tests can also measure your ability to properly respond to unique settings and situations. Taking this type of test can help you determine if your social skills are meeting expectations of other professionals in your industry. For example, you may believe you’re empathetic to coworkers, but a test could show that you tend to avoid emotions in the workplace.
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If your current skills are average or exceptional. An aptitude test can show you where you need to improve your skills to make yourself more marketable to employers.
12 aptitude tests for job seekers
Ready to take a test or two? Here are a dozen aptitude tests for job seekers you can take today to help you find the perfect career for your unique traits and talents.
1. MyPlan.com - free
Learn what motivates with this aptitude test that can help job seekers consider industries or positions that may have felt out of reach before.
2. Keirsey Temperament Sorter - $29.95
Learn if you fall into a guardian, rational, idealist, or artisan temperament category with this personality assessment.
3. Big Five - free (basic test)
Identify your learning style with this personality assessment test that assigns you one main trait among five: openness, agreeableness, neuroticism, conscientiousness, and extraversion.
4. Myers-Briggs - $49.95 online, price can vary if test taken in person
Are you an INFP or ESFJ? This popular test uses four-letter “types” to identify basic preferences for four common dichotomies, including judging vs. perceiving and thinking vs. feeling.
5. 16 Personalities - free, with some paid options
This is a high-quality, free version of the Myers-Briggs test. It takes about 20 minutes and provides detailed career advice based on your results.
Read more: 13 Fun Jobs Someone Will Actually Pay You For
6. 123 Career Test - free
Find out if you’re looking in the right field with this test based on Holland Code personality types. You’ll find out which occupations and work environments are best suited for your unique traits.
7. My Next Move O*NET Interests Profile - free
This aptitude test is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and helps you find where your interests fit into certain career paths. You can then narrow down your results to find jobs you’re currently qualified for.
8. PathSource - free
For the job seeker on the go, this career assessment app lets you input personality characteristics and interests on your smartphone. You’ll then be provided with a list of potential career matches and thousands of interviews to help you get the most out of your job search.
Read more: The Dream Job Isn't a Myth, but It's Not as Dreamy as It Appears
9. Watson Glaser - up to $81.00
Often used by law firms, this critical thinking test helps participants understand how they comprehend and digest scenarios and information. It comes with a price tag but there are free practice tests available online.
10. MAPP Test - free to $150
Find what career speaks to your passion with this aptitude test. It’s a popular test because of how thorough the results can be. If you pay for the “executive package” your answers will help you sort through 900 careers.
11. Princeton Review Career Quiz - free
Would you rather? This aptitude test gives you two career options to choose from. After 24 questions, you’ll be matched with potential careers.
12. iSeek “Clusters” - free
If you only have a few minutes to spare, this is the test for you. Rate activities, subjects, and personal qualities you enjoy. Then see which career clusters you match with.
Read more: How Do I Find a Job That Makes Me Happy?
