What Are SHL Tests and How Do You Prepare for Them?
SHL tests are widely used pre-employment assessments that measure a candidate’s cognitive ability, behavioral traits, and job-specific skills. Employers use SHL to identify top talent for roles in finance, technology, sales, and more. Test types include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, inductive logic, personality assessments, and situational judgment tests (SJT). On this page, you’ll find a complete guide to SHL test formats, sample questions, and proven strategies to help you practice and improve your score.
How long are SHL tests?
The SHL test consists of 30 – 50 questions and typically lasts 20 – 25 minutes, depending on the job you interview for.
How do I pass the SHL assessment test?
Passing an SHL assessment test requires preparation and a strong understanding of the skills and abilities being assessed. Here are some tips to help you pass the test:
- Practice ahead of time.
- Familiarize yourself with the types of questions you will likely encounter on the test.
- Avoid distractions and stay focused on the task.
- Make sure you understand the instructions for each question
- Practice enough to boost your confidence
What is the Structure of the SHL Test
The structure of SHL tests can vary depending on the type of test being administered and the specific skills being assessed. Generally, the tests are designed to be completed online and are timed. They may include a combination of multiple-choice questions, numerical and verbal reasoning questions, and situational judgment scenarios. Some tests may also include written responses or simulations.
Here is an example of the structure of an SHL numerical reasoning test:
- A timed test, typically lasting 20-30 minutes
- Approximately 20-25 multiple-choice questions
- Questions may involve interpreting data from tables and graphs, performing calculations, and problem-solving
- The questions become increasingly difficult as the test progresses
It’s important to note that the structure of SHL tests can vary greatly depending on the organization and the specific role being assessed, so it’s always a good idea to review any information the organization provides beforehand.
What Kind of Questions are on the Test?
SHL tests typically include a variety of different question types that are designed to assess a range of skills and abilities. The types of questions you will encounter on an SHL test will depend on the specific test you are taking and the skills being assessed for a particular role.
- Numerical reasoning: Questions that assess your ability to work with numbers and make decisions based on numerical information. These questions might involve interpreting data from tables and graphs, performing calculations, and problem solving.
- Verbal reasoning: Questions that assess your ability to understand and analyze written information. These questions might involve reading passages of text and answering questions based on the information provided.
- Inductive reasoning: Questions that assess your ability to identify patterns and make logical inferences based on limited information. These questions might involve finding the next item in a sequence, identifying relationships between different objects, or solving logic puzzles.
- Situational judgment: Questions that assess your ability to make decisions in real-world scenarios. These questions might present you with a workplace scenario and ask you to choose the best course of action.
- Personality questionnaires: Questions that assess your personality traits and preferences. These questions might ask you to rate your agreement with various statements or describe your typical behavior in certain situations.
Online SHL Assessment Practice Test
Practice SHL Tests Questions and Explanation
Practicing can help you become familiar with the types of questions you may encounter and improve your test-taking skills.
Take an SHL Assessment
SHL Personality Practice
Be honest: SHL tests often include questions that assess personality traits, so it’s important to be honest and answer them as accurately as possible.
Some Sample Questions for Each of the SHL Test Topics
- Numerical Reasoning Test:
Question: The price of a book was $20 last month. This month the price has increased by 25%. What is the current price of the book?
a) $22.50 b) $24.50 c) $25.00 d) $26.00
Answer: b) $24.50
- Verbal Reasoning Test:
Question: Read the following paragraph and answer the question: “In the year 2022, Company XYZ witnessed a significant increase in its profits, driven by successful product launches and cost-cutting measures. The company’s CEO attributed the success to the dedication and hard work of the employees.”
Question: What was the primary reason for Company XYZ’s increased profits in 2022?
a) Cost-cutting measures b) Product launches c) Dedication of employees d) Successful CEO
Answer: b) Product launches
- Inductive Reasoning Test:
Question: Which of the following figures completes the series?
a) Option A b) Option B c) Option C d) Option D
Answer: c) Option C
- Deductive Reasoning Test:
Question: All cats are mammals. Fluffy is a cat. Based on these statements, which of the following conclusions is true?
a) Fluffy is not a mammal. b) Fluffy is a dog. c) Fluffy is a mammal. d) All mammals are cats.
Answer: c) Fluffy is a mammal.
- Situational Judgment Test (SJT):
Question: You are working on a team project, and one of your team members is consistently not meeting deadlines and contributing minimally to the group effort. What would you do in this situation?
a) Confront the team member in front of the whole team. b) Report the team member to the supervisor immediately. c) Have a private conversation with the team member to understand their challenges and offer help. d) Ignore the team member’s behavior and take on their responsibilities.
Answer: c) Have a private conversation with the team member to understand their challenges and offer help.
- Personality Questionnaire:
Question: Indicate your level of agreement or disagreement with the following statement: “I prefer working in a structured and organized environment.”
a) Strongly Agree b) Agree c) Neutral d) Disagree e) Strongly Disagree
SHL Test – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SHL test used for?
SHL tests are used by employers to assess a candidate’s cognitive ability, personality, and job-specific skills during the hiring process. They help predict how well a candidate will perform in a given role.
What types of questions are on an SHL test?
The test may include:
- Numerical reasoning (graphs, percentages, ratios)
- Verbal reasoning (reading comprehension, logic)
- Inductive/abstract reasoning (pattern recognition)
- Situational judgment (behavioral responses)
- Personality questionnaires
How long does an SHL test take?
Most SHL tests take 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the type. Timed tests like numerical or verbal reasoning are usually 20–30 minutes long.
Can I use a calculator during an SHL numerical reasoning test?
Yes, basic calculators are usually allowed unless otherwise stated. Always read the instructions before starting.
Are SHL tests hard?
They can be challenging due to strict time limits and unfamiliar formats. Practicing with SHL-style questions is key to improving accuracy and speed.
How can I prepare for an SHL test?
- Take practice tests under timed conditions
- Review basic math, grammar, and logic skills
- Familiarize yourself with the test format
- Use SHL-specific prep platforms
What is a good score on an SHL test?
Scores are often compared to a norm group. Performing in the top 20–30% typically improves your chances of advancing in the hiring process.
Can I retake the SHL test if I fail?
Generally, no—you cannot retake the SHL test for the same job application. However, if you apply for a different position or the employer invites you to retest, you may get another opportunity.
Is the SHL test multiple choice?
Yes, most SHL assessments, including verbal, numerical, and logical reasoning tests, are multiple choice. Some tests, like coding or simulation-based exams, may include interactive components.
Do employers see my raw SHL test scores?
Employers usually receive a score report showing your performance relative to a norm group or ideal profile. They may not see your exact number of correct answers but rather a percentile or category (e.g., above average, average, below average).
