How to Prepare for the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)
We want all of our coding bootcamp students to have the best possible learning experience. That’s why we designed an admissions process to ensure your interests and passions align with what we offer – and to ensure you start the program ready to succeed.
As part of our process, we require all applicants to take a non-technical admissions assessment called the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT), which tests your ability to problem-solve, use new information, and think critically, an important foundation for learning software development.
In this post, learn about the CCAT, including why we use it and how you can prepare for it.
What is the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)?
The CCAT is a proven, scientifically validated aptitude test that measures cognitive abilities. Research shows that cognitive aptitude is twice as predictive as job interviews, three times as predictive as experience, and four times as predictive as education level.
We’re far from the only ones to use it, too. The CCAT It’s been administered more than 5 million times in the U.S. alone and is trusted by companies, hiring managers, educators, and others.
Another benefit: It’s developed by a third party, so we get unbiased results that help us learn about applicants in a way that doesn’t depend on previous jobs, careers, or education. According to Criteria, “Examples of jobs for which the CCAT has high predictive validity include managerial positions, software engineers/developers and other technology workers, financial analysts, auditors, and many others.”
How the Aptitude Test Works
The CCAT consists of 50 verbal, math and logic, and spatial reasoning questions (see a couple of sample questions below). Test-takers have 15 minutes to complete as many questions as they can. While finishing all 50 questions is possible, most people do not complete all 50 questions. In fact, less than 1% do so!
As Criteria puts it: “At first glance, the CCAT is intimidating. But don’t panic! You don’t need to get all the questions right to shine…Keep in mind that most people don’t make it all the way through the test.”
After completing the test, we receive your score and determine if it falls within the suggested range provided by Criteria. As long as your score falls anywhere within that range, you pass.
A Few Test-Taking Tips, Directly from Criteria
- Visit the Criteria prep page for a roundup of great information and resources.
- Before you take the test, find a good, distraction-free spot with a good internet connection.
- Have paper on hand to work through questions in real time. (No calculators allowed!)
- If you don’t know an answer, don’t worry! There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so if you’re having trouble with a question, and/or if you realize you’ve spent more than one minute on a single question, it’s best to guess and move on.
- Relax as much as you can! Test-taking can be stressful, we know, but do your best to approach it with a relaxed attitude so you can perform well.
Sample CCAT questions:
Verbal:
Choose the word that’s most nearly opposite to the word in capital letters.
LENGTHEN
A. abdicate
B. truncate
C. elongate
D. stifle
E. resist
Math:
A group of 3 numbers has an average of 17. The first two numbers are 12 and 19. What is the third number?
A. 17
B. 19
C. 20
D. 23
E. 30
See more examples on the Criteria site.
How the CCAT Fits in Our Admissions Process
Here’s where the CCAT fits into our overall admissions process, no matter which coding bootcamp you’re interested in:
- First, you’ll take a mini aptitude test. No coding is required for these five multiple choice questions that kickstart the admissions process.
- Next, you’ll fill out an application, which includes questions about your interest in coding and future goals. Then, it’s time for the CCAT.
- If you pass the CCAT, you’ll have a call with someone on our team to discuss program options.
- You’re then ready to enroll! You’ll determine financial needs, place a deposit, and save your seat in your bootcamp of choice.