Abstract Reasoning for Students: Preparation for University and Graduate Assessments

Students—whether applying to university, graduate programmes, or internships—often face abstract reasoning tests. These assessments are used for admissions, placement, and recruitment. This guide explains where students encounter abstract reasoning, why it matters, and how to prepare effectively.

Where Students Face Abstract Reasoning

University admissions – Some universities use aptitude tests (e.g. for selective programmes, scholarships, or international admissions). Abstract reasoning may be part of the assessment.

Graduate programmes – Most large employers use aptitude tests for graduate recruitment. Consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain), finance (investment banks, Big 4), tech (FAANG, startups), and engineering firms all use abstract reasoning. It's standard in graduate schemes.

Internships – Same tests as graduate programmes. Summer internships, placement years, and work experience often require passing aptitude tests. Prepare early.

Masters and MBA – Some business schools and postgraduate programmes use reasoning tests for admissions. GMAT, GRE, and similar may include abstract-style questions. Dedicated abstract reasoning tests are also used by some schools.

School entrance exams – Selective schools, grammar schools, and gifted programmes may use reasoning tests. Abstract reasoning is common in 11+, 13+, and similar exams.

Placement and scholarship – Competitive placements, scholarships, and awards may require aptitude tests. Abstract reasoning is often included.

Why Employers and Institutions Use These Tests

Predict performance – Abstract reasoning correlates with problem-solving ability, learning speed, and adaptability. Employers use it to predict job performance.

Fair comparison – Standardised tests allow comparison across candidates from different universities and backgrounds. Reduces bias from CV screening alone.

Efficiency – Tests filter large applicant pools quickly. Thousands of applications become hundreds of test-takers. Only strong performers proceed.

Skills assessment – Abstract reasoning measures logical thinking and pattern recognition—skills valued in many roles. It's not just a filter; it's a skills check.

How to Prepare as a Student

Start early – Don't wait until the week before. 2–4 weeks of regular practice is ideal. More for high-stakes (e.g. consulting, top graduate schemes).

Use a study plan – Phase 1: learn rule types and formats. Phase 2: pattern practice. Phase 3: strategy and speed. Phase 4: full test simulation. Structure your preparation.

Practice under time – Tests are timed. Untimed practice teaches rules; timed practice teaches speed. Do both. Build up to test pace (45–60 seconds per question).

Use quality materials – Practice with questions similar to your target test. SHL-style if you're taking SHL. Check which test provider your employer or institution uses.

Track progress – Note accuracy, time per question, and weak areas. Improve systematically. Don't just do random practice.

Balance with other prep – If you're also preparing for numerical, verbal, or case interviews, allocate time. Abstract reasoning is often 20–30% of the assessment. Don't neglect it, but don't over-focus either.

Common Student Mistakes

Leaving it to the last minute – "I'll practice the night before." Abstract reasoning improves with repeated practice. Cramming doesn't work well.

Only doing untimed practice – You need to perform under time. Add timed sessions. Build speed.

Ignoring the test format – Different tests have different formats. SHL, Korn Ferry, AON—each has nuances. Practice the format you'll face.

Skipping because "I'm good at logic" – Abstract reasoning is a specific skill. Practice improves recognition speed. Don't assume general intelligence is enough.

Neglecting other sections – If the assessment has numerical, verbal, and abstract, prepare all. Weak performance in one section can hurt your overall result.

Not simulating test conditions – Quiet room, no phone, no interruptions. Simulate the real test. Build habits.

Tips for Student Preparation

Join a society or group – Many universities have consulting, finance, or career societies that offer practice sessions and materials. Use them.

Use free resources – Assessment-Training.com offers free practice. Employer websites often have sample questions. Use what's available.

Apply to multiple programmes – More applications = more practice. Each test is practice for the next. Don't put all eggs in one basket.

Learn from mistakes – After each practice set, review errors. Why did you get it wrong? Wrong rule? Time pressure? Careless error? Address the cause.

Stay calm – Test anxiety hurts performance. Practice reduces anxiety. You've done the work. Trust the process.

Practice with abstract reasoning questions and the abstract reasoning test.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should students start preparing?

2–4 weeks before the first test. If applying to multiple programmes, start when applications open. Early practice helps for all subsequent tests.

Do students need to pay for preparation?

Not necessarily. Free resources exist. Paid materials can offer more questions and better simulation. Assess your budget and needs. Quality free practice is better than low-quality paid.

What if I'm applying to different industries with different tests?

Abstract reasoning is similar across providers. SHL, Korn Ferry, AON—all use matrix, series, odd one out. Core skills transfer. Practice the common formats. Check specific provider nuances if you know which test you'll take.