Which Companies Use the CCAT Test
Thinking about applying for a job that requires the CCAT test?
Learn which top companies use the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT), why they rely on it, and how you can prepare to stand out. From tech startups to private equity firms, the CCAT helps employers identify high-potential candidates quickly and fairly.
Many of the companies that use CCAT are looking for potential—not just experience. Show them your cognitive strength, and you might land your dream role.
The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is a popular pre-employment assessment used by top companies to evaluate a candidate’s problem-solving skills, learning ability, and critical thinking. As hiring becomes more competitive, businesses across industries are turning to the CCAT to streamline the talent screening process.
So, which companies use the CCAT—and what do they gain from it? Let’s dive in.
What Is the CCAT?
The CCAT is a 50-question, 15-minute test designed to measure cognitive aptitude. It covers:
Numerical reasoning
Verbal reasoning
Logical thinking
Pattern recognition
The test is fast-paced, and most candidates don’t finish all the questions—making accuracy and strategy crucial.
Companies That Use the CCAT Test
Many companies use the CCAT, especially in fields like tech, finance, consulting, and sales. Here are some well-known employers that use or have used the CCAT as part of their hiring process:
| Company Name | Industry | Why They Use the CCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Crossover | Remote Work/Tech | Filters high-performing candidates for global remote roles |
| Vista Equity Partners | Private Equity | Screens for top analytical talent for fast-paced finance environments |
| Trilogy | Software | Uses CCAT to assess candidates for developer and product roles |
| Think3 | SaaS/Tech | Identifies quick learners for fast-scaling software ventures |
| HotSchedules | Hospitality Software | Uses CCAT to evaluate future leadership potential |
| Aurea | Enterprise Software | Selects talent that can solve problems under pressure |
| Thomson Reuters | Media & Finance Tech | Screens candidates for research and analyst positions |
| UserZoom | UX Research Software | Identifies strong analytical thinkers for growth roles |
Why Do Companies Use the CCAT?
Employers rely on the CCAT because it helps them:
Predict job performance more accurately than resumes
Reduce hiring bias by focusing on ability, not background
Hire faster by narrowing down top candidates early
Match talent to high-cognitive-demand roles
Studies show cognitive aptitude is a top predictor of workplace success, making CCAT a powerful hiring tool.
Roles That Often Require the CCAT
The CCAT is typically required for roles that involve analytical thinking, such as:
Software developers
Financial analysts
Product managers
Consultants
Technical support
Sales and business development
CCAT Test Tips and Time Management
The CCAT test is a fast-paced 15-minute assessment with 50 questions, and most candidates don’t finish. Smart time management is essential. Start by skipping any question that seems too time-consuming—don’t get stuck. Aim to answer the questions you’re confident about first, especially in the numerical and logical sections.
Practice under real test conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. Use a timer, and get used to the pressure. Focus on improving mental math, reading comprehension, and pattern recognition to tackle questions more quickly.
Stay calm. Every correct answer counts equally, so it’s better to answer more easy questions than waste time on harder ones. Guess strategically—there’s no penalty for wrong answers.
Divide your time: around 5 minutes per section (verbal, math, logic), but adjust as needed. Practicing this rhythm beforehand will help you stay on track and boost your performance on test day.
FAQ
The test lasts 15 minutes and includes 50 multiple-choice questions. Most people do not finish all questions.
The test covers verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, logical thinking, and pattern recognition.
A score above 31 is considered above average. Top-tier roles may expect a score in the 35–40+ range.
Practice with timed sample tests, strengthen basic math and logic skills, and focus on time management strategies.
