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The 8 Best Career Aptitude Tests to Find the Right Career Path

Editorial Team
Editorial Team
best career tests

Navigating the path to the ideal career can often feel like traversing a labyrinth, especially without a guiding compass. This is where the best career aptitude tests come into play, serving as reliable tools that can help illuminate the road ahead. These online tests, carefully crafted by career and psychology experts, can help you align your intrinsic passions, natural skills, and values with prospective careers, ultimately guiding you towards an occupation that feels less like work and more like fulfillment.

From uncovering hidden talents to offering a new perspective on your professional possibilities, these best career tests not only start the engine of your journey of self-discovery but ensure you’re on the right track, too. Unveil the best version of your professional self with these highly recommended tests, guaranteed to take you one step closer to your dream career.

Set Yourself Up for Long-Term Professional Success and Fulfillment—Take a Career Test!

What is a Career Aptitude Test?

A career aptitude test is a test that helps you figure out which jobs you are most likely to enjoy and succeed in. Some aptitude tests are done in person or with a career counselor, but there are many available online as detailed surveys or questionnaires. 

The questions will cover a wide range of topics and are meant to highlight key traits, values, strengths, and interests you have, some of which you may not even know about. The results you receive after completing the test will vary depending on your assessment. For instance, some aptitude tests will tell you more about your work strengths and preferences, while others might provide you with a detailed list of careers. 

The 8 Best Career Aptitude Tests Available Online

Below, we review eight of the best career aptitude tests available online. Each assessment has a different mission. 

JobTest.org

JobTest.org

While many aptitude tests only evaluate one or two work-related factors, like personality traits or preferences, JobTest.org is one of the most holistic aptitude tests available. JobTest.org uses an innovative AI/ML algorithm that takes into account your career personality type, your current job, salary, job satisfaction, what you are looking for in your ideal career, and what you are missing from your current job. All of this information and the answers to your questions are considered in your final report. The assessment takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. 

Test-takers have praised this career test for its accuracy and customization. This assessment also offers users step-by-step guidelines on how to land their dream occupation, whether that involves pursuing an MBA or finding the next step in their career. While you need to pay for the premium version to access your full report, JobTest.org also offers a full money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with your results. 

Pros

  • Highly personalized and accurate results
  • Holistic assessment
  • Innovative advanced machine learning algorithm
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Relatively quick
  • Provides users with actionable steps

Cons

  • Assessment can only be taken once

Bottom Line: JobTest.org is one of the most comprehensive career aptitude tests on the market. It uses an innovative AI/ML algorithm to give people very accurate and personalized results. Users will discover their professional strengths and weaknesses, as well as their income potential, career personality, and next steps toward landing their dream job. 

My Next Move

My Next Move

Sponsored by the US Department of Labor, My Next Move is a free job quiz. This assessment consists of 60 questions, mostly about work-related activities. As you go through the quiz, you will be asked how you feel about these activities and answer on a sliding scale. This lets the algorithm figure out what kinds of jobs you might be interested in and point you in the right direction to land those jobs. 

The results section shows which Holland Code categories align most with your interests. The Holland Code classifies jobs into job categories, interest clusters, or work personality environments. You will be prompted to choose one of five "Job Zones." After selecting your desired job zone, the site will inform you of your "best fit" career and a few "great fit" careers. 

Pros

  • Based on Holland Code
  • Free
  • Exact professions provided

Cons

  • Time-consuming
  • Focuses more on work interests rather than skills

Bottom Line: Sponsored by the US Department of Labor, My Next Move is a free job quiz that assesses your interests and current job experience to populate a customized list of careers to explore. 

Clifton Strengths

Clifton Strengths

Clifton Strengths helps you figure out which of 34 different strengths are your top five. This assessment aims to help users understand what they are good at, what they enjoy, and how to identify a job that aligns with both. You must answer 150 questions, each within 20 seconds. Various assessment packages are available between $19.99 and $49.99. 

After you take the quiz, you'll receive a personalized report with a list of your top five most essential talents, videos, and other resources to help you get ahead in your career. Keep in mind that this assessment does not provide users with specific career paths but helps individuals identify their talents and what they need in an occupation to thrive.

Pros

  • Created based on research on leadership
  • Commonly used by career coaches

Cons

  • Not free
  • Does not provide users with specific career paths
  • Relatively time-consuming

Bottom Line: Clifton Strengths is designed to assist users in determining what type of work they would enjoy and excel at. Users can use this information to find well-suited career paths, but Clifton Strengths will not provide that information. 

Truity

Truity

Truity is a free personality profiler based on the Holland Codes and Big Five Theories. The site has several career tests, but the Career Personality Profiler is the most in-depth. This assessment is aimed at helping participants discover more about the job activities they enjoy and their "work personality." Participants will answer questions on a sliding scale based on how much or how little they relate to these statements. The assessment has 94 questions and takes 10–15 minutes to complete. 

Once you complete the assessment, the results will inform you about how open you are to new experiences, how much self-discipline you have, how much of an extrovert you are, and how you handle stressful situations. This information will help you determine what kind of work environment suits you best. You can receive some results for free, but to view your entire report, it will cost $19. 

Pros

  • Backed by Holland Codes system and Big Five
  • Various tests available
  • Relatively affordable

Cons

  • Results will be deleted after two weeks

Bottom Line: Using a combination of methodologies and models, Truity is a personality profiler that helps you discover the best work environment for you and how you work with others in a professional setting. 

CareerHunter

CareerHunter

CareerHunter is a 27-question career test that takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. This test helps you determine what you're good at based on work tasks you find interesting and exciting. CareerHunter uses a pool of 27 general areas of interest, like entertainment, science, engineering, and healthcare, to determine what kinds of jobs you might be interested in. 

The results of this test help you figure out which jobs are the most fun for you, and they help you find new passions you never knew you had. CareerHunter.io has several other quizzes on personality types and career goals. To access all quizzes and resources, individuals must pay a fee of $29.99. 

Pros

  • Fairly short assessment
  • One flat fee gives you access to multiple quizzes

Cons

  • Relatively expensive
  • More based on preference than skills

Bottom Line: CareerHunter is an aptitude test geared toward those beginning their career. This 27-question test can help you determine your work interests in the science, engineering, and entertainment industries. 

MAPP

MAPP

The Motivational Appraisal Personal Potential (MAPP) test is a career evaluation for those who want to start a new career or switch careers. This 22-minute test is based on intuition and is designed to be taken quickly. The content of the questions primarily surrounds your likes and dislikes. Many psychologists have tested and confirmed its accuracy. 

After you finish the test, the results section will tell you your top career areas, careers that match your test results, and why you want to work in that field. If you opt for the free test, you will be matched with five potential career options. For every other package, you must pay a fee. The $90 starter package provides you with 20 different career matches. The $150 executive package provides a 30-page report and matches you with 900 careers. 

Pros

  • Backed by psychologists
  • Uses the O*Net job list to identify jobs aligned with your interests

Cons

  • Costly
  • Primarily based on preferences rather than skill

Bottom Line: MAPP is a career test that will tell you about the best job fields, possible career paths, and what drives you in your job. Even though the free test gives you some information, you can get a lot more feedback through the paid packages, which can be expensive. 

My Plan Career Assessment

My Plan Career Assessment

My Plan Career Assessment is a career value assessment test that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. The primary purpose of this free aptitude test is to help you understand where your professional needs and motivations lie. The format of this test differs from most aptitude assessments. Geared toward visual learners, test-takers will each be given 20 cards. 

Each card will have a statement written on it, beginning with "In my ideal job, it is important that…" Test takers will be asked to rank these statements in order of importance. 

After you finish the assessment, you will get feedback in six areas: independence, achievement, recognition, relationships, working conditions, and support. This information will help you recognize what you must prioritize most during your job search. 

Pros

  • Free
  • Geared toward visual learners
  • Quick

Cons

  • Results provide relatively less valuable information
  • Unclear what psychology backs this assessment

Bottom Line: My Plan Career Assessment gives users a free, one-of-a-kind aptitude test that helps them figure out which workplace values are most important to them. This test focuses on independence, achievement, recognition, relationships, working conditions, and support as the most important work values.

123Test

123Test

Based on the Holland Code, 123Test is a free career test that helps individuals discover what career is best suited to their personality. This test has 15 questions that are based on scenarios. Each scenario is shown through text and images. In each scenario, individuals are given four options, and participants must select their favorite and least favorite outcome. 

Once you complete the test, you will be able to review your Holland Code work personality. 

Pros

  • Tailored to visual learners
  • Based on Holland Codes
  • Free

Cons

  • Not as extensive as other personality tests

Bottom Line: 123Test is a free career aptitude test that helps individuals discover what career is best suited to their personality. Once you complete the test, you will be able to view what your Holland Code work personality is, as well as suggested occupations.

Set Yourself Up for Long-Term Professional Success and Fulfillment—Take a Career Test!

Why Are Career Tests Important?

More often than not, people feel they need to find their career path independently, but that doesn't have to be the case. Here are some ways that career tests can be a valuable resource during your job search. 

Gain clarity

You may know yourself better than anyone else, but sometimes we all need a reminder of our strengths, weaknesses, preferences, and interests. Career tests can provide insights into the areas where you shine and point you toward career paths that align with your strengths and priorities. 

Be efficient

Rather than scrolling aimlessly through job boards and listings, free career tests can help you narrow down your search and hone in on the occupations that best suit your skills and interests. 

Eliminate stress

Making monumental decisions about your career path can be stressful and anxiety-inducing when you look at the big picture. Career tests can make this process seem less daunting by breaking it down into manageable steps. 

Discover new paths

Hundreds of occupations exist around the globe. Career tests can introduce you to new industries and occupations you may have never heard of. 

Receive guidance

Career tests often provide users with additional resources once they have completed their assessment, including action plans and occasionally career counselors they can meet with

Gain validation

It's hard not to second-guess yourself when making big decisions surrounding your career. Aptitude tests can give you the assurance you need to know you are making the right decision for yourself and your career

Self-discovery

No matter what stage of your career you might be at, it's always helpful to learn more about your working style, preferences, priorities, and skills. Career tests can provide you with the insight you need to make future decisions about your professional life

Increase self-confidence

If you haven't been excelling in your current job, that doesn't mean you aren't talented; it might just mean you aren't at the right company or in the proper role. Career tests can boost you up, reminding you how you would be a unique and special asset to many teams. 

Gain work satisfaction

Everyone has different priorities they want to get out of their career. Some people want to find a good work-life balance, while others strive to find a job with a high salary. Career tests can provide you with career paths that align with those priorities.

Find fulfillment

Career tests can improve your chances of finding happiness and fulfillment in your chosen professional path by offering direction and clarity.

The Benefits of Taking a Career Test

Taking an aptitude test is a smart career move for many reasons. Here are some ways you can benefit from taking a career test. 

Gain clarity

If you've felt lost about your career, aptitude tests are a great way to discover (or rediscover) your work strengths, weaknesses, priorities, and values. 

Discover new pathways

The perfect occupation for you is out there; you might not know what it is yet. Career tests can open the door to new pathways for you to explore. 

Hone in on one path

If you've been dabbling between multiple careers for a long time, career tests can help you narrow down your options. There are likely many jobs that you would enjoy, but there are only a couple that perfectly align with your priorities, skills, and preferences. 

Be practical

With the help of career assessments, you can map out a career path that fits your goals and set goals that you can reach. 

Gain insight into your work personality 

When it comes to finding a suitable occupation, you also need to think about factors such as your preferred work environment, pace, and communication style. An aptitude test can help you discover what those preferences might be in a professional setting.

Increase confidence 

If you've been second-guessing your career decisions, aptitude tests can give you the validation you need to move forward confidently. 

Make better choices 

When you look at a job description, it can be difficult to know whether it's the right fit for you. Career tests give you a way to compare different jobs and help you make better career decisions.

Create a step-by-step plan

When people think about their dream job or career, most individuals think about the big picture. "I want to be a doctor" or "I want to be a lawyer." Aptitude tests can provide a step-by-step plan to help you achieve those goals.

Improve communication

Ability tests can help you talk about your skills, interests, and values to hiring managers, people on your current team, or people you meet through networking. 

Find work satisfaction

By discovering a career path more aligned with your interests and values, you are more likely to find pleasure and joy in your work. 

How to Choose a Career Test

When seeking to align your unique abilities with the right career, the best aptitude tests play an invaluable role. Like a compass guiding you through the wilderness of career choices, these tests provide personalized insights that cut through the noise, illuminating the path that suits your strengths and passions. Considering their affordability alongside the depth of guidance they offer, the best aptitude tests provide a significant return on investment.

They're not just financial choices, but strategic steps towards sculpting a fulfilling future. Make your selection wisely and witness your career aspirations taking shape with unparalleled clarity. Here are a few factors to keep in mind during your selection process:

Purpose

Every aptitude test has a different mission. Some tests aim to help you discover more about your work preferences, while others will help you develop a step-by-step plan to achieve your dream job. Before selecting a test, sit down and figure out what you want to get out of it. 

Format

Aptitude tests are available in many formats. Before selecting an aptitude test, consider what format you feel most comfortable using. Do you prefer a self-paced test or a timed test? Would you rather do something online from the comfort of your home or take a test in person at a career center?

Cost

While some aptitude tests are free, many come with a price tag attached. Consider how much you can afford to spend on this career assessment test. Thankfully, you typically only need to pay a one-time fee for these assessments, meaning you might be able to shell out a pretty penny for your desired test. 

Validity and reliability

Consider how dependable and valid the results of a career test are. It's important to pick a test that psychologists or career coaches have used and proven to be accurate through intensive research.

Credibility

Behind every career test is a company or brand that created it. How reliable is this company? Select a test created by a credible institution or individual that is approved by experts in the field is crucial. 

Customization

The more specific the test results are to you, the test-taker, the more valuable the feedback usually is. If you want a test that fits your needs and interests, it's important to choose a professional test that lets you make changes.

Tips for Taking a Career Test

The big day has arrived, and it's finally time for you to sit down and take your aptitude test. Here are some tips you should keep in mind to get the most out of your assessment. 

Don't skip over the details 

Before launching into your assessment, make sure to carefully read the instructions at the top of the page. There may be information on approaching each question and moving through the assessment. 

Pick a quiet spot

Aptitude tests are based on introspection and intuition. To ensure you are as in touch with your thought process as possible, take your test in a quiet environment free of distractions. 

Answer candidly

The last thing you want to do on a career test is try to be someone you are not. In the long run, you want a career that aligns with who you are, as this will lead to the most career satisfaction and fulfillment. To get yourself there, make sure to be as candid as possible on your career test. 

Follow your intuition

More often than not, your first instinct is usually the right one. Refrain from overthinking each question or overcomplicating anything. Go with your gut. 

Move at your own pace

Unless you are taking a timed exam, block out plenty of time to take your assessment. If specific questions take time to work through, then allow yourself all the time necessary. 

Refrain from overanalyzing the results

Did you receive some feedback that you didn't want to hear? Don't overthink it! You know yourself better than anyone else, including a test. Some parts of your report will be more helpful than others. Pay attention to the feedback you can use and ignore anything that doesn't fit with your preferences and goals. 

Use your feedback as a place to start

Now that you have received your results, you can devise an action plan. You can use the results as a reference to find potential work roles, industries, or career pathways that fit your interests and skills.

Final Thoughts

To really gain a comprehensive view of your career landscape, consider harnessing the power of the best career path tests. These invaluable resources cut through the uncertainty, offering personalized insights that are like tailor-made roadmaps to your professional success. By identifying your inherent strengths, passions, and potential, the best career path tests can help steer you towards a fulfilling career trajectory that not only complements your unique abilities but also aligns with your aspirations. When it comes to architecting your career journey, these tests provide the blueprint. They're more than a wise investment—they're your passport to a satisfying professional future.

Set Yourself Up for Long-Term Professional Success and Fulfillment—Take a Career Test!

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Editorial Team
Editorial Team
Our Editorial Team, made up of seasoned professionals, prioritizes accuracy and quality in every piece of content. With years of experience in journalism and publishing, we work diligently to deliver reliable and well-researched content to our readers.