Aptitude Test
The third CRE paper. No exemptions. Pure reasoning, forty-five minutes.
See the factsWhat this assessment actually is.
The Aptitude Test is the third paper of the CRE, set apart here because no candidate can exempt out of it. Forty-five minutes, multiple choice, pass or fail. It tests the reasoning a civil servant uses every working day: deduction from statements, verbal logic in English, numerical reasoning, data sufficiency, and the reading of tables and graphs. Several disciplined services draw on the same skills in their own written rounds.
How the paper is built.
Deductive Reasoning
- When
- Reasoning
- Form
- Conclusions from statements
- Grading
- Pass / Fail
Verbal Reasoning (English)
- When
- Reasoning
- Form
- Implication & inference
- Grading
- Pass / Fail
Numerical Reasoning
- When
- Reasoning
- Form
- Percentages, ratios, rates
- Grading
- Pass / Fail
Data Sufficiency
- When
- Reasoning
- Form
- Is the information enough?
- Grading
- Pass / Fail
Interpretation of Tables & Graphs
- When
- Reasoning
- Form
- Read the figure
- Grading
- Pass / Fail
Source: Civil Service Bureau — CRE Aptitude Test (sample questions)
What candidates overlook.
- Deductive Reasoning — draw conclusions from given statements.
- Verbal Reasoning (English) — read for what is implied, not only what is said.
- Numerical Reasoning — percentages, ratios, rates; arithmetic under time pressure.
- Data Sufficiency — decide whether the information given is enough, not whether you can solve it.
- Interpretation of Tables and Graphs — read the figure, then read the question.
Positions that face this gate.
Administrative Officer
The generalist policy elite. The interview that rewards orientation, not intent.
Executive Officer
Frontline managers of the civil service. The interview that tests operational judgment.
ICAC Officer (CACO / ACACO)
The integrity grade. The interview that rewards analytical honesty.
Immigration Officer
Disciplined service. The interview that tests judgment at the border.
Other Grades
Trade Officer, Statistician, Labour Officer and other professional grades.
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