High School Aptitude Testing

A lot. They’ll learn what kind of problem-solver they are, their mechanical aptitude, what foreign languages they’ll have an easier time learning, which musical instrument they have a natural aptitude in, and how they best learn. If that’s not impressive enough, they’ll receive a career exploration report that shows them the best job opportunities, the education requirements, and the average salaries of said jobs.

The aptitude test is called the Highlands Ability Battery (HAB). It’s widely known as “the golden standard of aptitude assessment.” It measures 13 Aptitudes, 3 Personal Style Traits, and 1 Skill.

The HAB measures aptitudes, not interests, personality, or skills. Aptitudes are natural talents, and cognitive strengths that we’re born with. Unlike interests or skills, aptitudes stay the same. They solidify between the ages of 14-15. They’re also very difficult to measure; that’s where we come in. Knowing your student’s natural abilities empowers them to know the professional tasks and environments they would thrive in. In short, you get empirical data that can lead them to their dream job.

Our aptitude testing shows students their foreign language aptitude, problem-solving aptitude, and learning aptitude. When an aptitude is high, it pushes to be used. In other words, it’s more difficult not to use that aptitude because it demands an outlet. For example, imagine if a student has a high classification or pattern recognition aptitude. That student must have an outlet to channel that ability. This means they need a fast-paced job (defense attorney, ER Doctor/Nurse, Engineer, etc). In other words, quick problem-solving must be at the foundation of their college major and career. Otherwise, they’ll be bored and unfulfilled. Likewise, if their classification aptitude is low, they’ll likely excel at careers prioritizing reflection over rapid decision-making. Careers which benefit from a low classification include radiology, divorce attorney, counselor, or CEO.

After your child completes the assessment, we’ll conduct a 1.5-2 hour debrief. In this debrief, one of our aptitude specialists will review all 19 of their abilities and show them how to find the jobs that match them. Our educators are thorough and personal in the debrief. That’s the perk of using us. If you ever have a question about your child’s abilities, you can always contact us if you need more guidance.

Aptitude tests aren’t like high school tests. So, remember this: a high score doesn’t equal a good score, just as a low score doesn’t equal a bad one. In other words, there are benefits to scoring low on each aptitude, just as there are perks to scoring high on each aptitude. For example, students who score high on observation will be more likely to spot visual changes in their environment (think architects, visual artists, and investigators). However, they’re also more likely to get distracted by visual stimuli. In many instances, having a low observation aptitude would be better. If your student scores low on many or all of the aptitudes, our aptitude specialist will walk them through their results and help them understand and capitalize on their abilities and strengths.

The Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation is an aptitude-testing research center for those who don’t know. They’ve been researching aptitudes for 100+ years. In the 90s, they sold the rights to the written version of their test to the Highlands Company. The Highlands Company then used it to create the Highlands Ability Battery (HAB). One of the main differences between the assessments is that students can take the assessment remotely. However, to take the Johnson O’Connor test, parents must drive their students to a Johnson O’Connor Research Center. This usually involves a weekend of travel. Plus, students have to take the test all at once. The HAB allows students to take the aptitude test in multiple sittings should they wish. However, the biggest difference is that students can access an aptitude testing specialist beyond their initial testing. Our aptitude testing specialists can guide your students further, especially for using aptitudes to guide students toward their college major. In other words, our aptitude specialists aren’t just trained to interpret aptitudes and use them for practical career advice.

The total cost is $500. This includes an introductory meeting and a 1.5-2 hour debrief. The cost also includes access to a personalized aptitude report and a detailed career report recommending occupations based on individual aptitudes. For group debriefs, we charge anywhere from $300-$350, depending on the number of students participating.

Aptitudes are important but are only one vital part of the equation. A student’s interests, personality, education, skills, and values all play a role in determining a student’s career. The primary benefit of an aptitude test lies in showing students which tasks come easily to a student. If students want to do something that doesn’t align with their aptitudes, that’s fine. Completing those tasks may take more time, energy, and effort, but that doesn’t mean a student “can’t” do them. At least with an aptitude test, students will know which tasks they naturally excel in and which they don’t. In short, aptitude assessments empower students to make those choices more intentionally.

It is recommended that students take the Aptitude Test between the ages of 14-15, as aptitudes tend to solidify around this time. Taking the test at this age will provide valuable insights to help guide their academic and career choices as they progress through high school and prepare for college.

Yes, the Aptitude Test can provide valuable insights into the types of careers that align with your child’s natural abilities. This information can help them choose a college major that complements their aptitudes, increasing the likelihood of long-term career success and satisfaction.

By understanding their natural abilities and strengths, students can better articulate their unique skill set during college applications and interviews. The Aptitude Test results can also guide students in selecting extracurricular activities and internships that align with their aptitudes, making their college applications more competitive.

Aptitudes tend to remain consistent once they have solidified around the ages of 14-15. However, if there have been significant life changes or if you believe your child’s abilities have evolved, you may consider retaking the test. It is important to consult with an aptitude specialist before deciding to retake the test, as they can help determine if it’s necessary and guide you through the process.

While the Aptitude Test itself doesn’t directly connect students to scholarships or programs, the insights gained from understanding their natural abilities can guide them in seeking out opportunities that align with their strengths. Students can then research scholarships and programs in their areas of interest and aptitude, increasing their chances of success in obtaining financial support.

The Aptitude Test focuses on the fundamental cognitive strengths and natural talents that individuals possess. These aptitudes are applicable across a wide range of careers, including emerging fields. As the job market evolves, the skills and knowledge required for specific jobs may change, but the underlying aptitudes remain relevant. The test results can be used to identify areas where your child can excel, regardless of the specific career they ultimately choose.

Aptitude tests provide valuable information about your child’s natural abilities, but it is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to developing a career plan. To create a comprehensive career roadmap, your child should consider their interests, values, and personal goals in addition to their aptitudes. Career counseling, mentoring, and job shadowing opportunities can also help your child explore different career paths and refine their plan over time.