Who does it? Why is it done? How does it work? How can I prepare?
These are all questions that have been asked of us regarding Pilot Selection and Pilot Aptitude testing, and so we hope this page will help clear away some clouds of doubt and misunderstanding.
So... let's tackle those basic questions again.
Q. Who tests?
A. Most airlines, some flying schools, the military services and some organisations who provide their services at a fee to aspiring pilots.
Q. Why?
A. To confirm that you have the ability and motivation to succeed in your chosen career path.
Q. How does it work?
A. You will be invited to sit a variety of tests that examine the particular facets of the mind and personality that your would-be employer is interested in.
Q. What do the tests entail?
A. Would it surprise you to know that aptitude tests should be designed to give everyone a fair crack of the whip? Well this is the case. Many tests are designed to test aptitudes that you have (whether you know it or not) and cannot be practiced for. However, it may be the case that practice, research and discussion will positively influence some of your scores come testing day.
Will practice and preparation work for you? MAYBE. There can be no guarantees! Some human minds just don't work in the way the flying employers need, whether it be thinking in four dimensions, or having a genuine feel for physics principles etc. Perhaps the realities of a flying career are something you have not thought of, and when exposed will reveal a lack of motivation beyond the surface appearance of the career.
However, if practice is what you decide to do, then do your research thoroughly, and use the internet, bookstores, libraries and CD-ROMs as sources of information. You may find it useful to discuss the tests being used with others who have sat the tests before you. If you feel that any particular area is going to cause you trouble, then pay particular attention here. For example, if it has been some time since you studied full-time and you expect a physics test, then borrow, purchase or find a basic revision textbook that will specifically refresh your memory. For general aptitude test practice, we recommend the Kogan Page books to be found within the Jetscreen Pilot Shop.
Furthermore, we can now offer you a free e-book concerning psychometric tests and assessment centres, just go to the 'Pilot Career Downloads' section to find it!
Good Luck!
GAPAN - Professional Pilot Aptitude Testing available for a fee.
EPST - Online Initial Pilot Testing System available free of charge.
SHL - Aptitude Testing used by major airlines.
Pilapt - Pilot Specific Aptitude Tests.
Pilapt-Prep - Pilapt Style Aptitude Tests available to buy for PCs.
Pilot Aptitude Training Systems - An Australian company specialising in preparing candidates for aptitude tests.
QANTAS Pilot Test - free, downloadable practice test from QANTAS.
Morrisby - An Aptitude Testing Company.
Personality Profile - free, Myers Briggs style personality sorter.
Saville Consulting - free, online aptitude preparation guides.
PSL - free, online numerical, logical and verbal reasoning practice tests.
Psychometric Success - large site, with information and many practice tests.
IQ - test your own Intelligence Quotient (IQ).
BBC Personality Test - indepth, free personality test.
MathCentre - HUGE resource for brushing up on, or improving, your maths!
Fun Personality Tests - free, online personality tests...just for fun!
Psychometric Test Links - Huge resource compiled by expert Mark Parkinson
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