About the GCT2 Test
The General Competency Test is a general cognitive aptitude test that assesses your reasoning and problem solving ability. This job prepared you for Public Service Commission jobs in Canada.
As of January 2, 2023, this test can also be used as an alternative to a university education requirement. When used for this purpose, the pass mark is 58 out of 90.
As of January 2023, the GCT Level 2 is used by Canada Post as their entrance test.
FREE Quiz
What is on the test
The is a multiple-choice test with 5 content areas:
Vocabulary. Knowledge of words and their meanings. Test-taker are asked to select the word that best fits a given definition or context, identify antonyms and synonyms, and complete analogies.
Spatial Relations. Ability to mentally manipulate objects in space. Questions include matching or rotating shapes, identifying the correct orientation of objects, and visualizing how an object would look if rotated or folded.
Number and Letter Series. Ability to recognize patterns and sequences in numbers and letters. Test-takers are asked to identify the next number or letter in a sequence, to recognize the rule that governs a sequence, and to complete a series.
Word Problems. Ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations.
Analytical Reasoning. Ability to draw logical conclusions from given information. Test-takers must identify relationships between items or groups of items, recognize the constraints that limit possible solutions, and solve complex problems by breaking them down into simpler components.
GCT2 Practice Questions
Quick Questions
How many questions are on the GCT2?
There are 90 questions on the test that must be completed in 2.5 hours. How to manage your time on a test
What is a passing Score?
The general passing score is 51/90 but this can vary, so check with the branch of government giving the test.
Can I retake the test?
If you fail the test you cannot re-take the test for 180 days. What to do if you fail
Can I use a calculator?
Calculators are permitted when taking the paper version. Restrictions apply check to make sure. For the computer based version, an on-screen calculator is provided.
What format are the questions?
This is a multiple choice test – How to answer multiple choice
How to Prepare for a Test
General Competency Test Level 2 – GCT2 Test Practice Study Course
General Competency Test (Level 2) Study Practice APP. Includes tutorials, quizzes, timed tests, practice questions, how to take a test, and self-assessments. Includes practice test questions for vocabulary, number series, letter series, numerical word problems and reasoning .
Includes hundreds of pages of Tutorials, Self-Assessments, 2 sets of practice test questions, multiple choice strategy, complete guide to taking a test, and hundreds of practice test questions for all content!
Test Prep & FREE GCT2 Quiz
Complete Test Preparation Inc. is not affiliated with the Canadian Public Serice, who are not involved in the production of, and do not endorse this page or products.
GCT2 FAQ
The GCT2 test provides a measure of an individual's cognitive abilities, which is used to assess their potential for success in different types of jobs.
The GCT2 has 5 sections, Vocabulary, Spatial Relations, Number and Letter Series, Word Problems and Analytical Reasoning. Taken together, these measure an individual's cognitive abilities, including verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, spatial reasoning, and perceptual speed.
The GCT2 is a proctored or supervised test. It can be taken in paper-and-pencil format or on a computer, depending on the testing center.
This is a multiple choice test - Help with multiple choice
There are total of 90 questions, which must be answered in 2.5 hours. How to manage your time on a test
There is no passing or failing score. The test is designed to measure an individual's cognitive abilities, and the scores are used to help determine the types of jobs that the individual is best suited for.
The score is calculated based on the number of correct answers in each section of the test. There is no penalty for wrong answers - therefore, if you are really unsure of an answer, making an educated guess is a good strategy!
How to Interpret your Score
Understand the different sections. The GCT2 test is divided into, verbal reasoning or vocabulary, numerical reasoning (Number and Letter Series, Word Problems), spatial reasoning, and perceptual speed. Understanding your scores in each section can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Practice questions here
Look at your overall score: Your overall score on the GCT2 test is a composite of your scores in each section. You will do better in some sections than others – what counts is the total score.
Consider the types of jobs that are appropriate for your score: The GCT2 test scores are used to help determine the types of jobs that you are best suited to. Your scores can be compared to the scores of individuals who are successful in different types of jobs to identify career paths that may be a good fit for you.
Consider additional factors: Your score should be considered in combination with other factors, such as your experience, education, and other qualifications. It’s important to take a holistic approach to career planning.
Seek professional guidance: A vocational counselor or other professional who is trained to interpret GCT2 test scores can provide guidance on how to interpret your scores and use them to inform your career planning.
Written by, Brian Stocker MA., Complete Test Preparation Inc.
Date Published: Monday, March 30th, 2020
Date Modified: Thursday, May 25th, 2023