Selecting online tests (vX)
Guidance for vacancy holders on selecting online tests in Civil Service Jobs vX.
Test Overview
The tests are available for the following Civil Service (standard) grades:
| Test | Group | AA/AO | EO | HEO/SEO | G6/G7 | Timed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Service Judgement Test | A | Yes | Yes | Yes | G7 only | No |
| Civil Service Numerical Test | A | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Civil Service Verbal Test | A | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Civil Service Management Judgement Test | B | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Civil Service Work Strengths Test | B | Combined AA/ AO/ EO | Combined AA/ AO/ EO | Combined HEO/ SEO/ G6/ G7 | Combined HEO/ SEO/ G6/ G7 | No |
| Casework Skills Test | C | AO only | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Customer Service Skills Test | C | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Choosing tests
All of the available tests are relevant for recruiters irrespective of the size of the recruitment or whether it is internal, external, level transfer, or promotion. The decision to use one or more of the tests is local and discretionary - their use is not mandated by Civil Service HR. A charge applies for use.
The primary purpose of each of the tests is to assist the selection of applicants who have the most potential to succeed by sifting out the least well-performing applicants. Using only one test is sometimes appropriate, but using tests in combination provides the biggest benefits in terms of quality hiring, control over the numbers of applications progressing to later recruitment stages, and in terms of ensuring the best possible diversity outcomes.
The tests measure:
Group A tests
Civil Service Judgement Test
The Civil Service Judgement Test provides a measure of behavioural potential (the potential to perform behaviours effectively in the role) and self-assessed potential to progress (career aspirations and work engagement). The test also provides interviewers with a report which can be used to structure and plan an interview, including suggested interview questions.
Civil Service Verbal Test
The Civil Service Verbal Test provides a measure of all-round verbal reasoning aptitude
Civil Service Numerical Test
The Civil Service Numerical Test assesses numerical reasoning aptitude.
Group B tests
Civil Service Management Judgement Test
The Civil Service Management Judgement Test measures how well an individual demonstrates judgement and decision making regarding the day to day management of others. Behaviours measured include collaborative, decisive, empathetic, confident, and agile.
Civil Service Work Strengths Test
The Civil Service Work Strengths Test uses the most commonly utilised strengths at particular grades in recruitment, measuring the things we do regularly, do well and that motivate us.
Group C tests
These tests provide an immersive experience, allowing applicants to get a realistic insight into the day to day activities in a role which requires particular skills and abilities. Each of the tests assesses ability, technical skills and behavioural judgement. The behavioural judgements measured across all of them are: analysis and problem solving, delivering a high-quality service, making decisions and delivering at pace.
Casework Skills Test
The Casework Skills Test measures the skills to carry out effective casework in the Civil Service. In addition to the behaviours measured, it assesses information processing and accuracy.
Customer Service Skills Test
The Customer Service Skills Test measures the skills to carry out effective customer service work in the Civil Service. In addition to the behaviours measured, it assesses customer handling and accuracy.
Updates to this page
Published 1 September 2020Last updated 18 August 2023 + show all updates
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Updated lead organisation: Government People Group
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Updated information on group c tests
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First published.