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Master CCAT in 2024 – Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test

Beat Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test With Prep Guides and Realistic Practice Tests
Bestseller
4.8
1837 Reviews|8876 Students|Last Updated: Oct 18, 2024

The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test, developed by Criteria Corp., stands as a benchmark for assessing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and advanced learning abilities. It’s not just another test; it’s a gateway to unlocking opportunities in middle to upper-level job positions, including sales executive, managerial roles, software developers, executive assistants, and software analysts.

The CCAT is renowned for its rigorous nature, with only a mere 1% of test-takers navigating every question. However, at PrepTerminal, we see this as an opportunity for growth. Our CCAT Prep Course is meticulously designed to transform the challenge of the CCAT into a stepping stone for your career advancement.

CCAT Mastery Primer

CCAT Mastery Primer

Bestseller
4.8
1837 Reviews|8876 Students
Last Updated: Oct 18, 2024

Course Content

Success Stories
4.8
1837 Reviews

Ryan Phillips
Jason Watson
David Lee
Ava Thompson
Emma Davis
Ryan Smith

Understanding CCAT

The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is made up of 50 questions and has a 15-minute time limit.

The test covers 3 subjects:

Verbal Reasoning

  • Vocabulary
  • Synonyms & Antonyms
  • Word Analogies
  • Error Checking

Math & Logic

  • Basic Math
  • Word Problems
  • Number Series
  • Data Interpretation

Spatial (Abstract) Reasoning

  • Next in Series
  • Odd One Out
  • Matrices

The questions in the verbal section of the CCAT test measures how well you can discern a word’s meaning, understand the relationship between different words, and identify the role of context in word choice. The CCAT tests math and logic section assesses your ability to understand proportions, use your algebra skills and manage word problems.

In the spatial reasoning questions you are required to flip or rotate shapes and identify patterns and outliers. Your ability to solve spatial reasoning questions will give your employers an understanding of how well you’ll be able to problem-solve and learn and make use of new information in the workplace.

Let’s look each section in detail to understand the type of questions you will encounter in the exam.

Verbal Reasoning

This section will equip you with the knowledge necessary to excel in the verbal reasoning section of the CCAT. You will get the essential knowledge, smart strategies, and practice necessary to not just handle these types of questions during the test, but also to apply what you learn in your career.

Verbal reasoning contains 4 subsections:

Vocabulary

The Vocabulary section of CCAT evaluates your understanding of words and the role of context in deciding their meaning.

Question: Fill in the Blanks

The old mansion, known for its __________ past, __________ in the moonlight, creating an aura of mystery.

Options:
  • A:

    Joyous, ignored

  • B:

    Mundane, ran

  • C:

    Forgotten, whispered

  • D:

    Storied, glimmered

  • E:

    Recent, yelled

Synonyms & Antonyms

The CCAT presents you with a range of multiple-choice questions. While the basic premise of synonyms/antonyms questions remains the same – choose the option that most closely matches or contrasts with the highlighted word, how each question goes about asking this can vary.

Question: What does the highlighted word mean in this sentence?

The “gregarious” child made friends easily at the new school.

Options:
  • A:

    Shy and reserved

  • B:

    Fond of company

  • C:

    Preferring to be alone

  • D:

    Unfriendly

  • E:

    Indifferent

Word Analogies

This portion of the test is designed to test your language fluency and analytical skills. These questions give you a series of words that are connected in a secret way. Your job is to use your language skills to figure out this connection and apply your observations to finish the series. 

Question: Which trio of words completes the analogy?

Paper : Pen : Ink ::

Options:
  • A:

    Pencil : Wood : Eraser

  • B:

    Canvas : Brush : Paint

  • C:

    Computer : Keyboard : Monitor

  • D:

    Teacher : Student : Book

  • E:

    Soldier : Jeep : Bullets

Error Checking

Error-checking questions give you data that looks very similar at first, but if you look closer, you might find small differences. Your task is to take a magnifying glass to the provided information and spot these differences.

Question: How many of the five items in the left-hand columns are different from the corresponding entry in the right-hand columns?
James A. Wilson AA22BB33 James A. Wilson AA22BB33
Emma G. Hernandez CC44DD55 Emma G. Hernandez CC44DD56
Lucas B. Clark EE66FF77 Lucas B. Clark EE66FF77
Amelia J. Miller GG88HH99 Amilia J. Miller GG88HH99
Mason R. Davis II00JJ11 Mason R. Davis II00JJ12
Options:
  • A:

    1

  • B:

    2

  • C:

    3

  • D:

    4

  • E:

    5

Math & Logic

Math & Logic empowers you to navigate mathematical challenges, decode complex data, and unlock insights that drive decisions. It is not just about calculations; it is about seeing patterns, making connections, and turning numbers into actionable knowledge.

Math & logic contains 4 subsections:

Basic Math

These questions evaluate your capacity to critically analyze numerical information. You must make informed decisions based on the data provided, considering various perspectives and potential consequences.

Question: An office orders 15.75 kg of coffee beans, which is ⅞ of the monthly requirement. What is the full monthly requirement of coffee beans for the office?
Options:
  • A:

    17.0 kg

  • B:

    17.5 kg

  • C:

    18.0 kg

  • D:

    18.5 kg

  • E:

    19.0 kg

Word Problems

Word problems challenge you to apply mathematical concepts to solve real-life problems. It is all about understanding the scenario, picking out the important details, and figuring out which math operations to use to crack the problem.

Question:

An employee is assigned to inspect 7 different files in a stack. Each inspection requires 30 minutes. After inspecting the first 3 files, and then again after the next 2, the employee takes a 20-minute break. How much time in total do they spend on this inspection?

Options:
  • A:

    4 hours and 10 minutes

  • B:

    4 hours and 25 minutes

  • C:

    3 hours and 45 minutes

  • D:

    3 hours and 20 minutes

  • E:

    5 hours and 30 minutes

Number Series

This portion of the test is designed to test your ability to identify & understand patterns. These questions will feature sequences that follow a complex pattern & you need to solve it to find the missing number.

Question: Determine the next number in the series:

3, 6, 7, 14, 15, ...?

Options:
  • A:

    28

  • B:

    29

  • C:

    30

  • D:

    31

  • E:

    32

Data Interpretation

Data Interpretation questions ask you to analyze and make conclusions from numerical data. This can be displayed in different forms, like tables, charts, and graphs. Your task is to extract important information, spot patterns, and trends, and make logical deductions based on the data presented.

Question: The graph below shows the monthly sales figures (in thousands of dollars) for a retail store over six months:

Data Interpretation Sample Question

What was the average monthly sales for six months?

Options:
  • A:

    $110,000

  • B:

    $135,000

  • C:

    $155,000

  • D:

    $175,000

  • E:

    $180,000

Spatial (Abstract) Reasoning

These questions require you to choose the visual element that best fits the logic of the question. Instead of using facts, specific details, or previous knowledge to solve complex problems, it takes you into the realm of imagination and creative thinking. 

Spatial/Abstract reasoning contains 3 subsections:

Next in Series

Next In Series questions evaluate your ability to recognize patterns, relationships, and sequences in a set of abstract figures. You are presented with a series of figures or shapes that follow a particular pattern, progressing sequentially from one image to the next. Your task is to discern the pattern and anticipate what the next item in the series should be.

Question: Which figure completes the series?

Options:
  • A:
  • B:
  • C:
  • D:
  • E:

Odd One Out

In Odd One Out questions, you are presented with a series of images that follow a particular pattern. With the outlier either following a different sequence from the rest or remaining static while the others evolve. Keep in mind that some questions might have multiple patterns at play simultaneously.

Question: In the following series, which image is the Odd One Out?

Options:
  • A:

    A

  • B:

    B

  • C:

    C

  • D:

    D

  • E:

    E

Matrices

Matrix questions are typically displayed as a 3X3 grid with multiple-choice options. In these grids, all but one piece is missing. Your main goal is to predict this absent piece in this grid. The twist? Patterns can be surprisingly complex, showing up in various forms. From basic turns to detailed color changes and alterations in shape.

Question: Which trio of words completes the analogy?

Options:
  • A:
  • B:
  • C:
  • D:
  • E:

Why Choose Our Course?

Given the average score of 24 out of 50 and the high completion rate of the test, the challenge is evident. But Prepterminal’s CCAT Prep Course‌ transforms this hurdle into a launchpad. It offers:

In-depth Lessons: Gain a thorough understanding of the CCAT, its components, and the strategic knowledge to conquer them.

Proven Test-Taking Strategies: Access effective techniques for navigating the test, avoiding pitfalls, and spotting and avoiding time-wasting traps. Ensuring candidates can approach even the toughest questions with confidence.

Interactive Quizzes: Put theory into practice with interactive quizzes that will take your preparation to the next level. These mimic real test conditions, reinforcing your knowledge and skills.

Rich Resource Library: Utilize a treasure trove of materials tailored for the CCAT, boosting your study efficiency. These materials are here to turbocharge your study time as the test day approaches.

Customized Learning: Each candidate is unique, and so is their learning style. Our course reflects that, as it can be accessed on a variety of devices at any time. You dictate the pace of your learning journey.

Time Management: Candidates are racing against time in the CCAT, so being efficient is the key to success in the test. Luckily, our detailed strategies and tips ensure that time is no barrier to good performance.

Ready to Transform Your Future?

Aim higher than the average 24 correct answers. Challenge yourself to join the elite 1%.
🔴 Enroll Now to embark on your journey to success!

1 Week

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): CCAT

The CCAT (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test) is challenging due to several factors. It consists of 50 questions that must be answered in 15 minutes, allowing only about 18 seconds per question, which creates intense time pressure. The questions cover various topics, including math, logic, verbal reasoning, and spatial reasoning, increasing in difficulty as the test progresses. The ban on calculators further complicates math questions under time constraints.

With only about 1% of test-takers completing all 50 questions, many struggle to keep pace. However, with adequate practice and preparation, many students have found the test manageable and successfully passed.

The definition of a good CCAT score varies depending on the job you’re applying for. Generally, scoring in the top 20% of candidates is considered strong, which typically means getting around 31 correct answers out of 50. The average CCAT score is 24, meaning you performed better than half of the test-takers. Achieving a score of 42 or higher places you in the top tier for any role that requires the CCAT.

Examples of good CCAT score ranges by job type:

  • Accounting: 20 (low) to 50 (high)
  • Analyst: 22 (low) to 50 (high)
  • Engineering: 22 (low) to 50 (high)
  • Project Manager: 21(low) to 50(high)

To be competitive, aim for a score that meets or exceeds the benchmark set by the employer for the role you’re targeting. Scoring above average is a positive indicator, but being in the top 20% greatly enhances your competitiveness.

Most candidates do not finish the CCAT due to its challenging format. Specifically, only about 1% of test-takers manage to complete all 50 questions within the 15-minute time limit. This indicates that it is common for individuals to leave some questions unanswered, and many focus on answering as many questions as possible rather than completing all of them. The test prioritizes accuracy over the number of questions answered, so it’s more beneficial to answer fewer questions correctly than to rush and answer all with lower accuracy.

The key differences between the CCAT (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test) and UCAT (Universal Cognitive Aptitude Test) lie in the number of questions, duration, and language accessibility. The CCAT features 50 questions to be answered in 15 minutes, focusing on a rapid assessment under tight time constraints. In comparison, the UCAT includes 40 questions with a 20-minute duration, offering more time per question and reducing pressure. Additionally, the CCAT is primarily administered in English, whereas the UCAT is designed to be language-independent and is available in more than 20 languages, making it more accessible for non-English speakers.

The CCAT is scored based on the number of correct answers. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it’s advisable to answer as many questions as possible. Scores are often presented as a raw score (total number of correct answers) and a percentile rank, indicating how a candidate performed relative to others.

No, the CCAT does not test specific job skills or knowledge. Instead, it focuses on general cognitive abilities that are broadly applicable to various job roles. It is designed to measure aptitude and potential rather than specific skills.

Employers use CCAT results as one factor in a comprehensive evaluation process. While a high score might significantly enhance a candidate’s chances for cognitive-demanding roles, employers often weigh the test results alongside other factors such as interviews, experience, skills assessments, and cultural fit. In some cases, a lower score might be offset by exceptional performance in other areas.

To effectively gauge which sections of the CCAT—verbal, numerical, or abstract reasoning—are your strengths or weaknesses, it’s important to take practice tests that closely mimic the format of the actual exam. These tests can provide valuable insights into your performance across different question types.

For a more targeted preparation, consider taking our free practice test, which not only simulates the CCAT experience but also offers detailed feedback on your performance in each section. This will help you focus on areas that need improvement and build confidence before the real test.

*Note: CCAT, Criteria, and other trademarks are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of the trademark holders are affiliated with PrepTerminal or this website.
Michael Lerner

Created by: Michael Lerner

BSc, Psychometric Tutor, Prepterminal Test Expert

8876 students,
4.8
, 1837 Reviews

Hey, I’m Michael, PrepTerminal’s CCAT expert. I am here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about the CCAT. Feel free to contact me at [email protected].

Success Stories

Discover what 1837 students said about us:
Ryan Phillips

The detailed explanations were a lifesaver—they really helped me figure out where I was messing up. The support team was fantastic, too. The only small gripe I have is that the math section was a bit tough, but honestly, that’s more on me than the course.

Ryan Phillips

Jason Watson

I was hesitant to invest in a prep course, but this one was definitely worth it. The structured approach, combined with the interactive quizzes, helped me stay on track and improve consistently. The resource library was a goldmine of information, and it really helped me understand the test better.

Jason Watson

David Lee

I was worried about the time constraints of the CCAT, but the strategies provided in this course made a huge difference. The practice questions were challenging but realistic, and they helped me improve my speed and accuracy. I appreciated the flexible learning pace, as I could study whenever I had free time.

David Lee

Ava Thompson

The course was solid, but it was intense! There are so many practice questions that I couldn’t get through them all in just a week. If you can, I’d definitely recommend getting a longer subscription. The material was spot-on, though, and I felt super prepared for the test.

Ava Thompson

Emma Davis

The course was super thorough and hit all the key topics, especially the math and number series stuff. The matrices section was a challenge, but it definitely helped me get better. There’s a lot to cover, so make sure you give yourself enough time to go through everything.

Emma Davis

Ryan Smith

The course is focused and gets right to the point. The practice questions were just what I needed.

Ryan Smith

Harper Davis

I didn’t have much time to prepare for the exam, but this course quickly got me up to speed. Felt ready for the CCAT in no time.

Harper Davis

Sophia Reynolds

I saw a big jump in my test scores after finishing this course. The interactive quizzes and strategy tips really did the trick. I used to struggle with number series and word problems, but the focused practice questions helped me nail those.

Sophia Reynolds

Amanda Clark

What I loved about this course was the practical approach it took. Each module was focused and provided me with the exact tools I needed to tackle different sections of the CCAT.

Amanda Clark

Sam Lee

I was pretty stressed about the time crunch on the CCAT at first, but this course really helped me get a handle on it. The practice quizzes were awesome for getting me used to the exam’s pace. If I could suggest one thing, it’d be to add a few more interactive elements to break up the content a bit.

Sam Lee

CCAT Mastery Primer
Bestseller
4.8
| 1837 Reviews |8876 Students