How to Prepare for Graduate Job Aptitude Tests in Nigeria (2025)

In today’s competitive job market, especially in Nigeria, graduate job aptitude tests have become a standard requirement in most recruitment processes — from private companies to government parastatals. Whether you’re applying for a role at MTN, Access Bank, NNPC, or a federal government agency like FIRS or NDLEA, chances are you’ll face one or more aptitude tests during the screening process.

These tests are designed to assess candidates’ cognitive ability, problem-solving skills, numerical reasoning, and verbal aptitude. Many qualified Nigerian graduates fail not because they are incompetent but because they lack the right preparation.

This blog post will serve as your ultimate guide to preparing for graduate job aptitude tests in Nigeria in 2025 — with detailed steps, examples, and trusted resources.

What Are Graduate Job Aptitude Tests?

Graduate job aptitude tests are standardized assessments used by employers to evaluate candidates’ skills, potential, and suitability for specific roles. These tests often precede interviews and are typically conducted online or at designated test centers.

Common Test Categories in Nigeria:

• Numerical Reasoning (mathematics, percentages, ratios)
• Verbal Reasoning (comprehension, grammar, sentence correction)
• Logical Reasoning (pattern recognition, sequences)
• Abstract Reasoning (shapes, diagrams, analogies)
• Situational Judgment Tests (SJT) (ethics and workplace scenarios)
• General Knowledge & Current Affairs (especially in government recruitments)
• Technical Questions (for engineering, IT, etc.)

Why Are Aptitude Tests Important?

Most employers in Nigeria, including government agencies like EFCC, CBN, and the Civil Defence Corps, use aptitude tests to:

• Shortlist candidates fairly from a large pool
• Test mental alertness and job-related abilities
• Reduce bias in recruitment
• Save time and resources

Failure to prepare adequately means you’re not just risking a low score — you’re likely missing out on your dream job.

Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare for Graduate Job Aptitude Tests in Nigeria

Step 1: Understand the Employer’s Test Format

Not all tests are created equal. For example:

• PWC Nigeria uses SHL-style reasoning tests.
• CBN and FIRS often use CBTs with general knowledge and numerical questions.
• Chevron and Shell include technical sections for engineering roles.

How to Research:

• Visit forums like Nairaland or Glassdoor
• Ask past applicants
• Search for “[Company Name] Aptitude Test Format” on Google

Step 2: Gather Reliable Practice Materials

Some reputable sources for aptitude test preparation in Nigeria include:

• JobTestPrep – SHL, GMAT-style questions
• MyJobMag & Jobzilla – free practice questions
• Teststreams – Nigerian-specific test packs (paid)
• Pastquestionsforum.com.ng – past questions for NNPC, NDLEA, FRSC, etc.

Tip: Focus on Nigerian-specific materials. Practicing with British or American test packs may not align with local test formats.

Step 3: Master Numerical Reasoning

This is usually the most challenging for many Nigerian graduates, especially non-STEM majors.

Topics to Cover:

• Percentages and ratios
• Profit & loss
• Simple and compound interest
• Graph and chart interpretation
• Speed, time, and distance

Example Question:

If the price of a bag of rice increases by 12% from ₦25,000, what is the new price?

Solution:
12% of ₦25,000 = ₦3,000
New price = ₦25,000 + ₦3,000 = ₦28,000

Tip: Practice daily with a calculator but also learn mental math techniques for speed.

Step 4: Strengthen Verbal Reasoning Skills

Most tests include reading comprehension, grammar, and sentence correction questions.

How to Practice:

• Read Nigerian newspapers (The Guardian, Punch) daily
• Practice past questions
• Use apps like Grammarly for grammar checks

Example Question:

“He didn’t attend the meeting, ______ he had promised to come.”

A. therefore
B. although
C. because
D. but

Correct Answer: D. but

Step 5: Practice Logical and Abstract Reasoning

These sections test your ability to identify patterns, solve puzzles, and think critically.

What to Expect:

• Number sequences: 2, 4, 8, ___? (Answer: 16)
• Shape rotation and analogy puzzles
• Coding/decoding logic

Recommended App:

• Pocket Aptitude (Android)
• Inductive Reasoning Practice Test from SHL

Step 6: Prepare for Current Affairs and General Knowledge

This is common in NDLEA, FRSC, Immigration, Civil Defence, and other government recruitments.

Areas to Cover:

• Current events (Nigeria and international)
• Ministers and Governors in office
• Nigerian history and constitution
• Agencies and their functions

Useful Sources:

• Daily Trust, Vanguard, Punch
• Nigeria Civil Service Handbook
• National Orientation Agency (NOA) website

Step 7: Simulate Real Test Conditions

Practicing under test conditions will improve your timing and accuracy.

Tips:

• Set a timer: Most aptitude tests are time-bound (e.g., 60 questions in 45 minutes).
• Eliminate distractions: No phones, TV, or noise.
• Use practice platforms like TestStreams CBT Platform or Prep.ng

Step 8: Sharpen Computer Literacy and Typing Speed

Many online tests require navigating through multiple-choice software interfaces.

What to Do:

• Learn how to operate CBT interfaces used by JAMB or NECO
• Use free typing tools like Keybr.com to build typing speed
• Familiarize yourself with Excel and Microsoft Word basics

Step 9: Improve Your Test-Taking Strategy

Apart from knowing the content, you need smart strategies.

Test-Taking Techniques:

• Skip and return: Don’t dwell too long on hard questions
• Guess wisely: Eliminate two wrong options first
• Use rough paper: For calculations, diagrams
• Time management: Spend no more than 60 seconds per question

Step 10: Take Care of Yourself Before and During the Test

Mental sharpness and physical readiness are equally important.

Do the following:

• Sleep well the night before
• Eat a light, healthy meal
• Bring valid ID, writing materials, and test invitation
• Arrive 30 minutes early if onsite

Recommended Resources and Platforms

Here’s a curated list of relevant Nigerian preparation resources:

Real-World Examples of Recruitments That Use Aptitude Tests in Nigeria

Here are examples of popular employers in Nigeria that conduct aptitude tests:

Final Tips for 2025 Graduate Job Seekers

• Start preparing before applications open.
• Don’t ignore soft skills like communication — these matter after the test.
• Build your LinkedIn profile and CV concurrently.
• Stay updated with test invitations via your email and SMS.

Conclusion

Graduate job aptitude tests in Nigeria can be a daunting hurdle — but with focused, Nigerian-tailored preparation, you can pass with confidence and secure your dream job in 2025. The key lies in starting early, using the right resources, and practicing smart.

Stay consistent, remain confident, and don’t let one failed attempt define your future. Use this guide as your blueprint, and success will be much closer than you think.

For more guides and job updates, visit ScholarCareer.com.ng — your trusted resource for Nigerian educational and career success.

Author | Musa Mustapha

Musa Mustapha is the co-founder of ScholarCareer.com.ng. With 7+ years of experience, he’s passionate about helping students and young professionals find scholarships, internships, job opportunities, grow their careers, and reach their full potential.

View all posts by Musa Mustapha | Website