Are You Being Assessed?
A Guide for Candidates
Being asked to complete a psychometric assessment can feel overwhelming, especially when it forms part of a selection or recruitment process. Here's what to expect — and how to give yourself the best chance of performing at your best.
It is natural to experience feelings of nervousness or pressure in these situations, particularly if you have never taken an assessment before. That's completely understandable — and this page is here to help you feel more prepared.
What Is a Psychometric Assessment?
A psychometric assessment provides standardised information about a person's abilities, personality, preferences or behavioural tendencies. They support fair and informed decision-making by going beyond subjective impressions alone.
They are commonly used in recruitment, selection, team development and succession planning — and should always be overseen by an appropriately registered HPCSA psychology professional.
How Can I Prepare for a Psychometric Assessment?
When it comes to psychometric assessments, preparation does not mean "studying for the answers." Instead, it involves ensuring that you are physically and mentally ready to perform at your best.
Before the Assessment
Complete a Consent Form
Before completing the assessment, make sure you've read and completed a consent form, and that the process — and how results will be used and shared — has been explained to you.
Get Enough Sleep
Go to bed early the night before your assessment. Being well-rested makes a real difference to how you'll perform.
Plan Your Time
Whether you're completing the assessment online in your own environment, or under supervision, arrive early so you can settle in calmly and on time.
Special Requirements
If you normally wear glasses, a hearing aid, or take specific medications — have those with you. If you think you might need concessions (for example, if you are visually impaired or have a diagnosed neurodiversity), raise this with your practitioner before starting so they can advise on appropriate support (text-to-audio software, time allowances where possible, etc.).
Your Assessment Environment
If you're completing an assessment online in your own environment, check in advance that the space will have good light, that you're comfortable, free of disturbances, and have access to power and a stable internet connection.
Try Some Practice Items
Completing practice items can help ease your nerves and give you a better sense of what to expect from the assessment process. The practice tests are available a little further down this page.
Jump to Practice ItemsTry Some Practice Items
Sample assessments to help you get used to the format and timing. Each one opens in a new tab.
Note: Feedback is not provided on practice tests. They are for familiarisation only.
Verbal Ability
Numerical Ability
Abstract Ability
Personality
During the Assessment
Read Instructions Carefully
Don't rush through directions. If you're unsure, re-read the instructions or ask your psychology practitioner to re-explain.
Manage Your Pace
Some assessments are timed; others are not. Be aware of time without fixating on it.
Answer Honestly
For personality-, interest- and values-based assessments, there are no "right" or "wrong" answers.
Stay Focused on Your Own Responses
Do not compare yourself to others — it won't help you and it won't help them.
Ask for Clarification if Needed
If supervised, ask for clarification if you don't understand procedural instructions. Administrators can't assist with answers, but they can help you understand the process.
If You Feel Anxious, Pause
Pause briefly and take slow, steady breaths before continuing. A short pause to re-centre is often more useful than pushing through.
Please Do Not Use AI or Other Online Assistance
Unless the assessment explicitly says you may use it. Our systems can pick up infrequent or socially desirable responding, and in some cases, facial validation may apply.
After the Assessment
Results Are Interpreted Professionally
Your results will be interpreted by a qualified HPCSA psychology professional — not read in isolation.
Your Data Is Confidential
Results are treated confidentially and used only for the stated purpose.
You May Request Feedback
You may request feedback from the psychology practitioner who asked you to complete the assessment — depending on the organisation's policy.
A Gentle Reminder
Assessments are one component of a broader decision-making process. If you were unsuccessful for a role, it's not because you have a "wrong" personality or interest profile — it simply means the fit wasn't there for this particular opportunity.
Have a Question About Your Assessment?
If you're preparing for an assessment with us and need more information, or if you'd like to request accommodations, please get in touch.