ADF Aptitude Test: Ultimate Guide (2025)
Master the Australian Defence Force Aptitude Test with our comprehensive guide and expert tips
General Ability Section
75 Questions in 30 Minutes
Mathematical Section
25 Questions in 20 Minutes
3 Attempts Allowed in Total
12 Months Between Each
The ADF Aptitude Test is a crucial part of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) army recruitment process and occurs as part of the Job Opportunities Assessment (JOA). This test is designed to assess a candidate's cognitive ability, problem-solving skills, and suitability for various military roles. The ADF Aptitude Test plays a significant role in determining the jobs you qualify for in the ADF.
The Australian Defence Force Aptitude Test is a psychometric test used to measure an applicant's numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning skills. The test is computer-based and you receive it after submitting your application via the Candidate HUB. It now happens prior to the ADF YOU Session (Your Opportunities Unlimited).
Applicants are generally only allowed to attempt the ADF Aptitude Test a maximum of three times, and there is a minimum 12 month waiting period between attempts. So make sure you give yourself the best chance of success at army recruitment by undertaking the proper preparation.
Additional specialist tests may include:
- Officer Entry Tests
- Aircrew and Aviation Aptitude Tests
- Specialist Occupation Tests
Types of Questions
1. General Ability Section
The General Ability Section consists of approximately 75 questions to be answered in 30 minutes. It assesses your problem-solving skills using:
- Arithmetic Questions: Problems involving percentages, ratios, word problems.
- Number Series: Finding patterns in sequences of numbers.
- Abstract Reasoning: Identifying patterns in shapes and diagrams.
- Word Analogies: Finding relationships between words.
- Word Meanings: Identifying which word doesn't belong in a list.
- Word Code: Working out a code to alphabet relationship from another example.
Example General Ability Question:
Clock is to time as thermometer is to...?
- a) Distance
- b) Temperature
- c) Speed
- d) Pressure
Answer: b) Temperature
2. Mathematical Section
The Mathematical Section consists of approximately 25 questions to be answered in 20 minutes. It assesses your general mathematical skills using questions involving:
- Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
- Fractions, decimals, and percentages increases or decreases.
- Ratios and proportions.
- Algebraic equations.
- Geometry and measurement.
Example Mathematical Question:
A train travels at a constant speed of 90 km/h. How far does it travel in 1 hour and 20 minutes?
- a) 100 km
- b) 115 km
- c) 120 km
- d) 135 km
Answer: c) 120 km
Preparation Strategy
Practice Tests
Taking ADF aptitude test practice exams is the best way to familiarize yourself with the question formats. Use resources such as:
- The free ADF aptitude practice tests available on our website.
- Familiarise yourself with the ADF's Official Guide to Aptitude Testing for information on the test and more example questions.
Strengthen Your Math and English Skills
- Review basic arithmetic, fractions, and percentages for numerical reasoning.
- Brush up on reading comprehension and vocabulary exercises for verbal reasoning.
- Practice abstract reasoning and pattern recognition puzzles.
Manage Your Time Effectively
The test is timed and you have around 25 seconds per question for the General Ability Section, and roughly 45 seconds per question for the Mathematical Section. This means the pressure is on!
So to have your best chance of success, make sure you:
- Stick to your time limit per question. Keep an eye on the clock and don't spend too much time on any one question.
- Don't panic if you don't know the answer, just take your best guess and move on. Come back if you have time left over at the end.
Recognising the Question Type
As soon as you read the question, you need to recognise the type of question being asked.
For example, candidates need to be able to identify a word analogy question vs a word meaning question immediately in order to understand what the question is asking and answer it in the alloted time.
This is a skill that comes with practice, practice, and more practice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ADF YOU Session?
The ADF YOU Session is an initial screening process that includes:
- Career Information Session
- Initial Medical Assessment
- Career Counselling
The purpose is to provide applications with clarity on the available career paths within the ADF and to align their aspirations with suitable roles.
What can I use during the ADF Aptitude Test?
You are not allowed to use any electronic devices into the test room, nor can you use a calculator or dictionary. Remember not to cheat!
Can I retake the ADF Aptitude Test?
Yes, but you can only attempt the test three times, with a minimum 12-month waiting period between attempts.
What is a good score on the ADF Aptitude Test?
There is no pass or fail score. Instead, your performance determines which ADF jobs you qualify for. High paying jobs such as Pilot, Commando, Acoustic Analyst or CIS Submariner, and Maritime Warfare Officer all require higher scores.
Key Takeaways and Tips
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