Free CCAT Practice Test Questions and Time-Saving Tips [2025]

Updated: April 2025

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The questions on this free CCAT practice test are a true representation of the questions you'll face on the actual Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT).

These CCAT Assessment Test sample questions were specifically chosen from our full CCAT test practice pack; they highly resemble the questions on the real Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test, offering an effective way to enhance your skills and excel in your pre-employment assessment.

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Tammar, Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) Expert at JobTestPrep
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CCAT Practice Test Questions (Solved With Answers)



Ace the CCAT: Free Practice Test with Expert Tips
Explore this video for CCAT sample questions and time-saving strategies.

What is the CCAT Test?

The CCAT (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test) measures a candidate’s cognitive abilities, including verbal reasoning, math and logic, and spatial reasoning.

By assessing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and learning capacity it helps predict a candidate’s likelihood of success in a given role.

The test requires answering 50 questions within 15 minutes, emphasizing the need for both speed and accuracy.

Scroll down to try our free practice questions and get expert tips to maximize your score.

CCAT Diagnostic Test: A Free Sample from Our Course

Take this quick, 5-minute CCAT Diagnostic Test to experience the real exam’s time pressure.

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CCAT Sample Numerical Reasoning Questions

The actual test (as well as this CCAT practice test) begins with three numerical questions. 

To answer correctly, you must possess a foundational understanding of mathematical principles such as basic algebra, arithmetic, and fractions. Here are just a few examples:

CCAT Sample Math Word Problem

1. Jack and Jill have 44 cookies together. Jack has three times more cookies than Jill. How many cookies does he have?

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If Jack has three times more cookies than Jill, you can build the following equation letting Jill be X and Jack be 3X:

3X + X = 44

4X = 44

Divide both sides of the equation by 4:
X = 11 - The number of cookies Jill has

3X = 3 x 11 = 33 - The number of cookies Jack has.

Important Things to Know

The test includes:

  • Numerical Reasoning: Assesses your ability to interpret and solve math-based problems.
  • Verbal Reasoning: Tests your understanding of written information and logical conclusions.
  • Abstract Reasoning: Challenges your pattern recognition and spatial reasoning skills.

The CCAT test measures the following skills and abilities:

  • Problem-Solving: Finding and analyzing issues, then figuring out effective solutions.
  • Critical Thinking: Thinking logically and evaluating information to make sound decisions.
  • Learning Capacity: Quickly picking up new knowledge and applying it in different situations.
  • Attention to Detail: Staying focused on small details and avoiding mistakes.
  • Analytical Skills: Breaking complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.

Yes, with only 15 minutes to tackle 50 questions, the CCAT checks how fast and accurately you can think under pressure.

Despite the questions looking simple, preparing in advance is essential. Practice helps you adapt to the time limit, improve your speed, and find the best ways to handle the format.


To prepare for the CCAT, start by practicing under timed conditions to get comfortable with the 15-minute limit for 50 questions.

  1. Take accurate test-like sample exams to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types, and focus on learning techniques that help you answer quickly and accurately.
  2. Use study guides and other practice resources to clarify key topics such as math, logic, and verbal reasoning. 
  3. Develop an effective time-management strategy to boost both speed and accuracy on test day.

CCAT Test Facts

Straightforward Basic Math Questions

2. Which of the following is the smallest value?

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Break the solution down into steps:

First, we can eliminate answers A and E because they have a non-zero digit in the tenths place, meaning their value is higher than 0.1.

Next, we will eliminate answer C, as it has a 9 in the hundredths place, while the other two have a 5. 

We are left with 0.05 and 0.054, which can be represented as 5/100 and 54/1000, respectively. If you are still unsure which is smaller, convert 5/100 to 50/1000 by multiplying both the numerator and the denominator by a factor of 10. Now that the denominator is identical, you can easily spot that 50 is smaller than 54.

From largest to smallest: 0.45>0.101>0.09>0.054>0.05

Tip of the day

Break the numerical section into subcategories and practice each one. Each question covers a different math field, so reviewing all areas will help maximize correct answers.

Wondering how scoring high on the CCAT can help you get the job you want? Check out the answer here.

3. 53 is 25% of what number?

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100% = 100*53/25 = 4*53 = 4*50 + 4*3 = 200 + 12 = 212

You can also find the answer by using a basic multiplication table method. If 53 is 25%, the whole number is four times 53. If we split the 53*4 to 50*4 + 3*4, we know that the number we are looking for has to end with 2 (3*4=12). The only option that ends with 2 is 212.


A Complete Online CCAT Preparation Course

Our CCAT PrepPack contains 6 simulations that follow the exact CCAT test format. Each test includes 50 questions that become progressively more challenging, mimicking the real exam experience.

In the pack you'll find:

  • Questions that follow the official test order, and difficulty.
  • Detailed explanations to strengthen your understanding and improve your performance.
  • The exact time limits and structure of the real CCAT exam.

Enroll in our guided practice plan, starting at $79, to ensure success on your CCAT exam.

“I am not a native English speaker. So English questions are relatively hard for me. I used to have a 37 marks 3 years ago. I recently studied this course for 5 days and faced CCAT and managed to score 40. Most questions in this course is relatively harder than CCAT but in a good way.”

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Tip of the day

The CCAT has 18 math questions, making it more math-intensive than most aptitude exams. Because this section heavily affects your score, it’s essential to refresh your basic math and practice with questions like the ones you found on this page.


CCAT Sample Spatial Reasoning Questions

There are four spatial “Next in Series” questions on the CCAT. Each one presents five figures that follow a specific pattern. Your goal is to identify which figure comes next in the series.

Use these two practice questions to get a feel for how it works.

1. Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?

CCAT Spatial Reasoning Sample

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The answer is C

The direction of the arrows moves 90 degrees counterclockwise.

The order of the colors of the arrows is: black, gray, and white.

Thus, the following arrow in the series must be gray and pointing downwards.

2. Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?

CCAT Abstract Reasoning Sample

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The answer is D

The above series has two characteristics that change: The inside shape and the outside shape.

The pattern of the outside shapes is - circle, square, and triangle.

The pattern of the inside shapes is - square, triangle, and circle.

Thus, following this pattern, the answer is a square with a triangle inside.

Tip of the day

Tips for “Next in Series” Questions:

  • Form a Hypothesis: Look at 2–3 frames to spot how objects change.
  • Verify It: Ensure the pattern holds for the entire sequence.
  • Eliminate Distractors: If the pattern fits, discard any clearly incorrect answers.
  • Check Answer Choices if Stuck: Sometimes, focusing on one element (like a single shape’s rotation) helps rule out wrong options quickly.

3. Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test Sample Question

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The circle in each figure is divided into eight eighths.

In each circle within the series, the shaded segmented sections move one-eighth (1/8) of the circle, counterclockwise.

Therefore, the next figure is the one appearing in answer option B.

3. Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test Example

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In this series, alternating vertical lines or vertical chains of circles are added to each figure, depending on the previous figure.

The middle circle in the vertical chain is always black. Since the last figure in the series contained an additional vertical chain of circles, the next figure should include an additional vertical line.

The figure appearing in answer-option A is the only one that fits.

Fully timed practice tests, sample questions and comprehensive answers for CCAT spatial questions are available on the full CCAT practice course.


CCAT Sample Verbal Reasoning Questions

The next batch of questions is taken from the 18 Verbal questions you'll get on the CCAT assessment:

Analogy Questions

1. STRINGS is to GUITAR as:

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STRINGS are the part of the GUITAR which makes the music.

Let’s try to apply it to all answer choices:

 A. WOOD is the part of the CELLO which makes the music.

 B. PIANO is the part of the KEYS which makes the music.

 C. BARS are the part of the XYLOPHONE which makes the music.

 D. VIOLIN is the part of the FLUTE which makes the music.

 E. SOUND is part of the MUSIC, which makes the music.

Of all answer choices, only C maintains the original relationship.

2. ABHOR is to DENOUNCE as ...

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To ABHOR means to regard something with disgust, and to DENOUNCE is to declare something wrong.

(WORD 2) is an action one may take when he feels (WORD 1). 

A person DENOUNCES something that he ABHORS; similarly, a person APOLOGIZES for something he REGRETS. These two pairs are particularly similar, as both actions (APOLOGIZING and DENOUNCING) are carried out through communication. Thus the answer is A.

Tip of the day

Tips for Analogy Questions:

  • Turn analogies into sentences: Even if they’re not written that way, this helps you spot the relationship.
  • Learn the 8 relationship types: Synonyms, antonyms, cause/effect, degree of intensity, category, descriptive connections, processes, and functions.
  • Pay attention to order: The right relationship in reverse is still wrong.

Sentence Completion Questions

3. Choose the word or words that, when inserted in the sentence to replace the blank or blanks, best fits the meaning of the sentence.

Since porcelain is an extremely hard and ___ substance, it is used in dentistry to create artificial teeth.

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Porcelain is extremely hard and is used to create artificial teeth. As a result, it should be a long-lasting, stable substance. Therefore, the option "durable" fits the blank best.

Since porcelain is used in dentistry for creating artificial teeth and implanting them in peoples' mouths, it can not be hazardous or sly, as hazardous means 'dangerous, risky' and sly means 'showing a cunning and deceitful nature.

It could prove lucrative, which means 'cost-effective or fruitful (referring to financial profit)', but that is not a trait of the substance itself.

Influential, which means 'dominant, important, of great influence' is irrelevant.

4. When inserted in the sentence to replace the blank or blanks, choose the word or words that best fits the sentence's meaning.

Electronic information and automated systems are essential to ____ all major federal operations.

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The sentence refers to electronic information that is fundamental to (something) all major federal operations. The sentence's general idea implies that electronic information is essential to practically / nearly / almost all primary federal operations. Therefore, the only word accurately reflecting that meaning in the sentence's context is "virtually".

Tip of the day

Many of the CCAT verbal questions rely heavily on English vocabulary, which is tough to improve quickly. However, with practice, you can still answer many questions correctly by using context clues and reasoning skills—even if you’re unsure of some words’ meanings.

After these verbal questions, you'll see four Abstract Reasoning questions once again:

5. Which of the following does not belong?

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test Abstract Reasoning

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Answer option (C) has three black circles inside of the square, while the rest of the answer options have only two black circles inside their squares.

Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

6. Which of the following does not belong?

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test Spatial Reasoning Sample

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Answer option (C) has two white squares and one black square, while the rest of the answer options have two black squares and one white square.

Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

7. Which of the following does not belong?

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test Abstract Reasoning Sample

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The shape in answer option (D) is a circle and, therefore, does not have angles, unlike the figures shown in the other answer options.

Therefore, option D is the correct answer.

Need more practice? Take an abstract reasoning practice test.


Master Time Management to Maximize Your Test Score

Learn techniques that cut your solving time and improve your accuracy with our CCAT PrepPack:

  • Get detailed answers and proven strategies to solve questions faster.
  • Discover time-saving tips for tackling math, verbal, and logical problems efficiently.
  • Train with 6 full practice tests, designed to progressively challenge and sharpen your timing and accuracy.

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Additional Sample Questions

Here are some questions you may find in the more difficult second half of the test:

Math Word Problem

1. Solve the word problem:

In a popular music station, songs are played uninterrupted (i.e., no commercial breaks).
The popular music broadcast "Hits All Around Us" lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes, in which two-song lengths are played – songs that last 3 minutes and songs that last 6 minutes. How many songs will be played during the broadcast?

*Songs are fully played during the broadcast.

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Two hours and 15 minutes are 135 minutes in total.

The most songs that can be played are 45 (45 songs X 3 minutes each = 135 minutes).

The least songs that can be played are 23 (22 songs X 6 minutes each + 1 song X 3 minutes = 132 + 3 = 135)

Math Number Series Question

1. What would be the next number in the following series?

0.25 ... 0.5 ... 2.5 ... 5 ... 7... ?

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The logical rule behind this series is an alternating arithmetic function – multiplication followed by addition.

The first number is multiplied by 2 to get the second number. Then 2 is added to the second number to get the third number, and so on: x2, +2, x2, +2 ...

Therefore, the last number in the series, 7, should be multiplied by 2: 7 x 2 = 14

Tip of the day

As you progress through the test, the questions become more complex.

This is the part where proper preparation can make a difference. Getting an early acquaintance with all possible question types and learning time-saving solving techniques will help you ace the last questions of the test.

Here are some more types of questions you might come across on the CCAT tests:

CCAT Attention to Detail Question

18. How many of the five items in the left-hand column are exactly the same as the corresponding entry in the right-hand column?

Sharon V. Solaris Sharon V. Solaris
Celesta L. Kroner Celesta L Kroner
Savanna B. Swope Savanna B. Swoppe
Zachery H. Eickhoff Zachery H. Erickhoff
Megan N. Heinz Megan N. Heinz

 A. 1

 B. 2

 C. 3

 D. 4

 E. 5

Answer:

Here are the discrepancies between the two versions:

Sharon V. SolarisSharon V. Solaris
Celesta L. KronerCelesta L Kroner
Savanna B. SwopeSavanna B. Swoppe
Zachery H. EickhoffZachery H. Erickhoff
Megan N. HeinzMegan N. Heinz

There are three errors, which means the answer is (B) - 2. 

Letter Series Question

1. What would be the next group of letters in the following series?

zone … ynnd … xmnc … wlnb ?

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The pattern in this question is that all the letters move one letter backward in the alphabet except the letter "n" which stays constant.  Therefore the answer is vkna.


Syllogism Question (Logical Reasoning)

1. Assume the first two statements are true.

All athletes are hard workers.

Alice is not an athlete.

Alice is not a hard worker.

Is the final statement:

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You can deduce from the first statement that all athletes are hard workers, but you do not have any information about non-athletes.

Therefore, according to the second statement, you cannot conclude anything regarding Alice, which is not an athlete.

The final statement is uncertain.


Is the CCAT Test Hard?

Yes. The strict 15-minute time limit forces you to move quickly, with just 18 seconds per question. As you progress, the questions grow more complex, adding pressure and making each decision critical to success.

 

The JobTestPrep practice tests simulate the real exam's pacing and difficulty, helping you stay calm and confident as questions ramp up in complexity.

 

We offer:

  • In-depth solutions for each question, including strategies to solve them quickly and efficiently.
  • Expert tips on reducing the time spent solving Math, Verbal, Spatial, and Logical problems, as well as techniques for making smart, informed guesses.
  • 6 full-length CCAT practice tests with increasing difficulty, designed to enhance your speed, accuracy, and time management skills, helping you maximize correct answers under pressure.

 


The CCAT Question Order

The CCAT follows a fixed question order, helping you prepare for what’s ahead:

  • Numerical Reasoning (N): 16-17 questions (1/3 of the test) – includes number series and word problems.
  • Verbal Reasoning (V): 17 questions (1/3 of the test) – includes analogies and attention to detail.
  • Spatial Reasoning (S): 11 questions (1/5 of the test) – includes shape series and odd one out.
  • Logical Reasoning (L): 5-6 questions – tests critical thinking.

The test often shifts between types, so stay adaptable. Here is an example of what you can expect:

CCAT Questions Order

CCAT Scores and Time-management

Your raw CCAT score (the number of correct answers) is converted into a percentile that shows how you compare with other test takers. An average score is around 24, while scoring above 31 places you higher than 80% of test takers.

A major challenge on the CCAT is the strict time limit—50 questions in 15 minutes, giving you roughly 18 seconds per question. Questions also get harder as you go, which often stops people from completing more than 30 questions.

What to Do when Time Runs Out?

  1. Use Quick-Solving Strategies: Familiarize yourself with any shortcuts or techniques (like those on this page) that help you solve questions faster.
  2. Make Educated Guesses: If a question seems too difficult or time-consuming, spend about 10 seconds eliminating as many wrong answers as you can. Making an informed guess is better than leaving it blank.
  3. Save Time at the End: Reserve at least one minute to quickly review any unanswered items, ensuring no question is left unmarked.

Following these tips can help you manage your time effectively and boost your overall score.

Boost Your CCAT Score with a Customized Practice Plan

You’ve seen the types of questions — now it’s time to master them. With our step-by-step guided practice, you’ll target exactly what you need to improve and build the skills to succeed.

 

Here’s how our plan works:

Full-length CCAT simulation to assess your current score and focus areas.

Time-saving techniques for numerical, verbal, spatial, and logic questions.

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Track your improvement with full simulations.

Sharpen weak areas with focused practice.

 

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FAQs

Employers, mainly in North America, often pick the CCAT for hiring.  It helps in hiring by reducing costs and finding candidates who are good at thinking critically, solving problems, learning quickly, and applying new information.


Compared to other job-related tests, the CCAT is known to be challenging. It gets harder as you move to the 50th question. The math questions need quick thinking and strong analysis skills. People who've taken the CCAT and other tests like the Wonderlic and PI find the CCAT the most demanding.


An Average CCAT score is 24 out of 50 questions. If you achieve it places you in the middle, with 50% of people scoring the same or lower. See more on our scores page.


This is Criteria Corp's online platform where candidates take their tests. You can find out more about the CCAT On-Demand Assessment on our dedicated page.


The UCAT is a shorter test by Criteria Corp focusing on math, logic, and visual reasoning without the verbal section found in the CCAT. Click to see more info on the UCAT.


Yes, there's a longer CCAT version giving you 22 minutes instead of 15, which is about 50% more time. This is available for those who aren't native English speakers or have a medical condition that requires more time.


Several employers use the CCAT in their hiring process, including Pennymac Aptean, Cvent, Finastra, Granicus, PowerSchool, TIBCO, Vertafore, Xactly, Infoblox, Mitratech, Ping Identity, and Relias Learning. For specific details on each, check out our guide on the Vista Equity Partners Exam.


Continue Practicing for the CCAT Exam

Access more CCAT FAQs tests and other valuable CCAT prep materials so that you take the test while being as prepared as possible:

Ensure your success with our CCAT Test Tips and the CCAT Study Guide - PDF.

If you're looking for a dedicated preparation ,check out our Crossover and Criteria Vista preps.