Guide
Multicheck, Basic-Check and other aptitude tests
What the tests measure, when you need one and how to prepare without going crazy.
Besides your school reports, many companies want to see the result of an aptitude test. The best known in German-speaking Switzerland are the Multicheck and the Basic-Check. Some industries and large companies have their own tests.
What the tests measure
The tests check school knowledge and skills that matter for a group of occupations. Typical are:
- Language: spelling, reading comprehension, often a foreign language too
- Maths: arithmetic, measurements and units, word problems
- Logical thinking and spatial imagination
- Concentration and accuracy
- Depending on the occupation: technical understanding or questions about business and office work
There are different versions for different groups of occupations. A test for technical occupations looks different from one for commercial occupations.
Do I need one?
Not every company asks for one. Before you sign up:
- Check the job ad to see whether a test is required, and which one.
- If it says nothing, ask the company.
- Take the test for the right group of occupations.
The tests usually cost something. Ask whether the company or your municipality pays for it. Some do.
Tip: A test result usually counts for several applications. You do not have to take it again for every company.
Preparation
- Do practice tasks. The test providers have examples on their websites.
- Go over the lower secondary school material in maths and German again.
- Practise mental arithmetic. In many tests, calculators are not allowed everywhere.
- Get enough sleep and eat something beforehand. Nobody calculates well when tired and hungry.
On the test day
- Be there early and bring an ID.
- Read the tasks carefully. Many mistakes happen because people read too fast.
- Do not get stuck on one task for too long.
The result
You get a report with your scores compared to others. It goes into your dossier. An average result is not a problem, because companies look at the whole dossier: school reports, taster reports and above all you.
If the result is clearly worse than your grades, you can often repeat the test after a waiting period. Ask the career guidance service whether it is worth it for you.