Criteria Corp (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test – CCAT)
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The CCAT is a 15-minute, 50-question pre-employment test used by companies to measure cognitive ability, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It includes verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning questions. Most candidates answer around 24–26 questions. There’s no penalty for guessing, and calculators are not allowed. Practicing with free CCAT sample tests can improve your score and boost your hiring chances.
The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is one of the most widely used pre-employment assessments in the United States. It evaluates how well a candidate can think critically, solve problems, and learn new skills—making it a top choice for employers hiring for mid- to high-level positions. On this page, you’ll learn what the CCAT measures, how the test is structured, and how to prepare with free CCAT practice tests.
What Is the CCAT?
The CCAT is a 15-minute multiple-choice test that includes 50 questions from three core areas:
Verbal reasoning
Numerical reasoning
Abstract/spatial reasoning
The test is designed to be challenging—most people do not finish all 50 questions. The main goal is not speed, but accuracy and strategic thinking under time pressure.
Why Do Employers Use the CCAT?
Companies use the CCAT to predict job performance. Research shows that cognitive aptitude tests like the CCAT are stronger indicators of future job success than resumes, interviews, or experience alone. It’s commonly used in industries like tech, sales, finance, and engineering to assess candidates for their potential, not just their background.
CCAT Test Format
Time limit: 15 minutes
Questions: 50 (multiple choice)
No calculators allowed
Average score: 24–26 correct answers
Score result: Raw score and percentile ranking
You’ll need to manage your time carefully, averaging about 18 seconds per question.
Types of Questions on the CCAT
| Section | Question Type |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Synonyms, antonyms, analogies, sentence completion |
| Numerical Reasoning | Word problems, arithmetic, number patterns |
| Abstract Reasoning | Visual patterns, shapes, matrices, spatial orientation |
These questions are designed to test your ability to learn, adapt, and think logically under pressure.
CCAT Scoring Explained
Your score is based on the number of correct answers (raw score) and compared to other test takers using a percentile rank. Most candidates answer between 20 and 30 questions correctly. A high score places you in the top percentile and improves your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
How to Prepare for the CCAT for Free
1. Take Timed Practice Tests
Practicing under realistic time constraints helps build speed and confidence. Use free CCAT sample tests to get used to the question format.
2. Focus on Weak Areas
If math is difficult, spend time improving mental arithmetic. If you struggle with spatial reasoning, solve visual puzzles and shape rotation questions.
3. Learn to Skip and Guess
There’s no penalty for wrong answers. If you’re stuck on a question for more than 20 seconds, make your best guess and move on.
4. Improve Your Vocabulary
The verbal section includes analogy and vocabulary questions. Reading high-level content or practicing with word games can improve your verbal reasoning score.
5. Practice Math Without a Calculator
You must rely on mental math and estimation. Brush up on multiplication, percentages, and basic algebra.
6. Track Your Progress
Keep a log of your scores and focus on improving gradually. Take at least 3–5 full practice tests before the real exam.
Free CCAT Practice Test – Start Now
Want to increase your CCAT score? Take a free full-length CCAT practice test right here on our site. No login or email required—just start practicing and improve your score today.
Hogan Test Results and Scoring Explained
Hogan Assessments don’t give you a “pass” or “fail.” Instead, the results provide a psychometric profile that employers use to evaluate your fit for a specific role or workplace culture. Each assessment has its own scoring model and interpretation method.
Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI) Scoring
Scale: Each personality trait is scored on a percentile scale from 0 to 100.
Interpretation: Scores reflect how your behaviors compare to a norm group (usually working adults).
Key Scales:
Adjustment (emotional stability)
Ambition (initiative and leadership)
Sociability (interpersonal skills)
Interpersonal Sensitivity (tact and empathy)
Prudence (self-discipline)
Inquisitive (curiosity and creative thinking)
Learning Approach (interest in self-development)
What to Know:
High scores are not always better—ideal results depend on the job. For example, high Prudence is good for accountants but may hinder creativity in designers.
Hogan Development Survey (HDS) Scoring
Scale: Percentile scores across 11 derailers or risk factors (e.g., Excitable, Cautious, Bold, Skeptical).
Purpose: Identifies how you may behave under pressure or stress.
Interpretation:
Low scores: Few risk behaviors, but may lack awareness or assertiveness.
Mid scores: Balanced behavior.
High scores: Potential for problematic behavior under stress (e.g., being overly controlling or withdrawn).
Insight:
Companies use HDS to predict potential leadership derailment or interpersonal challenges.
Motives, Values, Preferences Inventory (MVPI) Scoring
Scale: Ten core value dimensions scored from 0 to 100 percentile.
Purpose: Measures personal drivers, work values, and cultural fit.
Examples:
Recognition (need for visibility)
Power (desire to lead)
Hedonism (pursuit of enjoyment)
Altruism (desire to help others)
Commerce (interest in money and sales)
Tradition, Security, Science, Aesthetics, Affiliation
Employer Use:
MVPI helps companies find employees who match their organizational culture and values.
How Employers Use Hogan Scores
Job fit: Are your traits aligned with the role’s demands?
Culture fit: Will you thrive in the company’s environment?
Development: What are your leadership strengths and blind spots?
Risk mitigation: Could you show counterproductive behavior under stress?
Vista Equity & Crossover CCAT Test: How to Prepare and Pass the Cognitive Assessment
Vista Equity CCAT Test: What to Expect
If you’re applying for a position at Vista Equity Partners, you’ll likely be asked to complete the CCAT (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test) during the hiring process. This 15-minute test measures problem-solving skills, logic, math ability, and verbal reasoning—all critical skills for roles in finance and private equity. Vista uses the CCAT to identify candidates who can think quickly, learn fast, and handle complex data. With only 15 minutes to answer 50 questions, time management is essential. Practicing with full-length, timed CCAT sample tests can help you become more efficient and confident before test day.
Crossover CCAT Test: How to Prepare
Crossover for Work includes the CCAT as part of its rigorous vetting process for remote roles in software, sales, and leadership. The Crossover CCAT focuses on evaluating raw intelligence and learning speed over job experience. You’ll face questions in math, logic, and verbal reasoning—under intense time pressure. Crossover typically looks for top-percentile performance, so scoring above 35 can significantly improve your chances. Practice tests, mental math drills, and shape-based puzzles can help boost your performance.
FAQ
The test provides a raw score based on the number of correct answers and a percentile ranking that shows how your score compares to others.
Most candidates score between 24 and 26 correct answers. Only a small percentage of test takers finish all 50 questions.
Questions cover verbal reasoning (synonyms, analogies), numerical reasoning (math problems, number patterns), and abstract reasoning (shapes, visual sequences).
No. The test is designed to measure mental agility, so calculator use is not permitted.
No. You should guess if you don’t know the answer—there is no deduction for incorrect responses.
You’ll have about 18 seconds per question, so pacing and skipping tough questions quickly is key.
Take timed CCAT practice tests
Focus on improving weak areas like math or spatial reasoning
Practice mental math and verbal logic
Learn to skip and guess strategically
Simulate real test conditions for better accuracy
