What is a Good CCAT Score? Understanding Your Test Results
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Have you just been told you’d need to take the CCAT (Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test) exam for your job application, and are now worried about how to score higher in it?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone! As someone who’s been through the CCAT wringer and come out the other side, I’m here to break it down for you in plain English.
My Personal CCAT Score Progressed like this: 27 → 41 → 45 → 48 (across four attempts)
Understanding the CCAT Score System
First things first, let’s talk numbers. The CCAT consists of 50 questions that you need to tackle. The CCAT uses multiple scoring methods to evaluate performance; your employer will share what ranking system they’re using:
Raw Score (0-50)
Simply the number of questions answered correctly
No penalty for wrong answers
Percentile Ranking (1-99)
Shows how you compare to other test-takers
99th percentile requires 45+ correct answers
Scaled Score (100-400)
Standardized scoring system
Allows comparison across different versions
Star Rating (0-6)
4 stars: 35+ correct answers (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
5 stars: 40+ correct answers (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
6 stars: 45+ correct answers (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
But hold your horses! A “good” score isn’t just about hitting the average. It depends on a few factors, which we’ll get into next.
What’s Considered a Good CCAT Score?
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: what’s a good CCAT score?
Score interpretation varies by industry and position, but here’s a general breakdown:
Score Range
Performance Level
Interpretation
Below 30
Below Average
May need additional preparation
30-35
Average to Above Average
Meets basic requirements for many positions
35-40
Well Above Average
Competitive for most positions
40-45
Exceptional
Highly competitive for demanding roles
45+
Top Percentile
99th percentile, exceptional performance
Factors Affecting Score Requirements:
Job position and level
Industry standards
Company-specific requirements
Role complexity
But remember, these are just guidelines. Some roles might require a higher CCAT score, while others might be more flexible.
The Best Way to Increase Your CCAT Score (personal experience)
Practice and simulation. That’s the single most important thing. I have taken SAT-I, SAT-II, GCSE OLevel & ALevel, IELTSs, etc. throughout my academic career and have been in the Top 1% throughout (8A* in OLevels, Best Across 5 state level distinction in ALevels).
Yet my first CCAT Score that I got in a practice test (from a PDF booklet I got for $80 from a very shady website .. so much so that I froze my card after using it there) was 27. I’m not kidding. I printed the test. Turned on the timer on my phone, took the test. And got slapped in the face. The last actual CCAT that I took for an employer, I had 48 out of 50.
My learning from this was that you can read as many “example questions” of CCAT Tests as you like, but until you actually sit down and take a complete timed test to see your “initial base score” that you need to improve. That first test’s results and analytics do 3 things for you:
Which “question types” (verbal/maths/logical) take you the most amount of time to solve
Which “question types” you got wrong the most
And it gives your brain a bit more “experience” with the race against time feeling, plus some preliminary strategies that would work specifically for you
To summarize, if you want to actually get a good CCAT Test Score, do this:
Strategic Preparation
Take practice tests under timed conditions
Focus on identifying and improving weak areas
Learn to manage the 15-minute time constraint effectively
I’ve created a platform where you can take multiple full-fledged timed CCAT tests. And when you do, it gives you analytics about which CCAT question categories you got the most wrong questions from, and where you spent the “most time” (since you need to save as much time as you can). Here’s an example:
Section-Specific Focus The CCAT tests three main areas:
Verbal reasoning
Mathematical & logical ability
Spatial reasoning
If you struggled with a particular section, focus your preparation efforts there. The platform that I shared above actually has topical CCAT practice tests as well, which means if you’re really good at the maths and logical reasoning questions, but get a lot of the verbal reasoning questions wrong – then you need to laser focus on preparing and improving your verbal reasoning skills.
Time management tips
With only 15 minutes for 50 questions, every second counts. Practice answering questions quickly and knowing when to move on if you’re stuck.
Here are a few reviews left by students who took these practice tests in the past:
If you’re preparing for CCAT to apply at Crossover for Work, you will find the below playlist rather helpful to answer more or less all the questions you might have about their hiring process:
💡Youtube Playlist: Step-by-Step Guide to Crossover’s hiring process
Applying to Crossover for a job | Sharing my experience
The Bottom Line
A “good” CCAT score is ultimately the one that gets you to the next stage of the hiring process. Focus on doing your best, preparing thoroughly, and showcasing your skills beyond just the test score. With the right preparation and mindset, you can tackle the CCAT with confidence!
FAQs about CCAT Test
Can I retake the CCAT if I’m not happy with my CCAT score?
Retake policies vary by employer. Some companies (like Crossover) allow retakes every 6 months.
How long is my CCAT score valid?
Typically up to 5 years, but this can vary by employer.
Is it possible to get a perfect score on the CCAT?
While theoretically possible, it’s extremely rare due to the strict time limit.
How much does the CCAT factor into hiring decisions?
It varies by employer. Some companies use it as a primary screening tool with mandatory minimum scores, while others consider it alongside other qualifications. For instance, Crossover has a “mandatory” score requirement that differs based on the role you are applying for – if you score lower than the requirement for the role, you cannot proceed to the next stage.
Are there any accommodations available for test-takers with disabilities?
Yes, many testing centers offer accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities. Contact the test administrator or employer for more information.
Final Thoughts
Remember that while a good CCAT score is important, it’s just one component of your overall job application. Focus on achieving the best score you can while also highlighting your other qualifications and experiences. With proper preparation and a strategic approach, you can achieve a competitive score that helps advance your career goals.
Free Resources
If you’re looking for a few free resources to get started, you can have a look at:
