The Wonderlic Exam tests cognitive ability, problem-solving, and quick thinking. Developed by Eldon F. Wonderlic in 1939, it screens candidates for jobs, college admissions (e.g., nursing), or athletic evaluations (e.g., NFL Combine). The standard test has 50 questions on math, verbal skills, logic, and spatial reasoning, completed in 12 minutes—no calculator allowed. Variants like the Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) use 30 questions in 8 minutes for academic placement; the SLE Quicktest suits remote testing. Scores (1–50, average 20) predict job or academic success, with 36+ ideal for complex roles. Adaptive versions adjust difficulty. Employers and schools use results to gauge aptitude.
Requirements:
- Eligibility: Meet employer or school criteria (e.g., high school diploma for admissions). Nursing programs may require 20–27; no formal prerequisites otherwise.
- Hardware: For online proctored exams, use a desktop/laptop (Windows 10+ or macOS 10.13+; no mobiles/Chromebooks), webcam, microphone, speakers, and stable internet (10 Mbps+, wired preferred).
- Environment: Set up a quiet, well-lit space with a clear desk, free of notes or devices. Bring a government-issued ID for verification.
- Materials: No aids allowed during testing. Practice with sample questions from JobTestPrep or WonderlicTestPractice.com.
- Registration: Employers/schools register you via Wonderlic’s platform or LMS (e.g., Canvas). Fees ($25–$100) vary; confirm retake rules (e.g., one after 30 days).
Duration:
- Exam Length: The Wonderlic Exam lasts 12 minutes for 50 questions (SLE: 8 minutes, 30 questions). Proctored setups add 5–15 minutes for system checks, ID scans, and room scans. Log in 15 minutes early; 60+ minutes late risks rescheduling.
- Preparation: Study 1–4 weeks (10–30 hours), practicing 20–50 timed questions daily. High-stakes tests (e.g., NFL) need 4 weeks to gain 5–10 points.
Platforms:
- Testing: Wonderlic’s portal uses Chrome/Firefox. Schools may link via Canvas/Blackboard. In-person tests are paper-based.
- Proctoring: ProctorU or Respondus LockDown Browser locks screens. Disable VPNs/pop-ups; Mac users (Catalina 10.15+) grant permissions. Test systems 24 hours prior.
- Study: Use JobTestPrep, BoostPrep, or Beat the Wonderlic for mocks. Reddit’s r/Wonderlic offers tips.