CSJT Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The Civil Service Judgment Test (CSJT) is an essential online assessment used by the UK government to evaluate candidates applying for Civil Service positions. This situational judgment test measures your decision-making abilities, behavioral competencies, and alignment with Civil Service values through realistic workplace scenarios.
Our free CSJT practice tests help you prepare for this important assessment by familiarizing you with the question format and developing effective strategies for evaluating workplace situations. With no time limit and immediate feedback, you can practice at your own pace and improve your chances of success.
Pro Tip: The CSJT uses a four-point effectiveness scale where you rate each action independently. Focus on understanding Civil Service behaviors and choosing responses that demonstrate good judgment, collaboration, and professionalism. Your scores can be reused for 6 months across multiple applications at the same grade level.
Free CSJT Practice Tests
Prepare for your Civil Service Judgment Test with our comprehensive free practice tests. Each assessment targets specific competency areas tested in the actual CSJT, helping you develop effective strategies for evaluating workplace scenarios.
CSJT Study Flashcards
Click each card to reveal key CSJT concepts and test-taking strategies
CSJT Exam Study Guide
Master the Civil Service Judgment Test with our comprehensive study guide covering test basics, format, registration, results, and preparation strategies for UK Civil Service positions.
| What is the CSJT? | The Civil Service Judgment Test is an online situational judgment test that assesses decision-making and behavioral competencies for UK Civil Service positions. |
| Who takes the Civil Service Judgment Test? | Candidates applying for UK Civil Service positions must take the CSJT to demonstrate their alignment with required behaviors for their target role. |
| What does CSJT stand for? | CSJT stands for Civil Service Judgment Test, a behavioral assessment tool used in the UK public sector recruitment process. |
| How long is the CSJT valid? | CSJT scores are typically valid for six months and can be used for multiple applications at the same grade level during this period. |
| How is the CSJT structured? | The test contains two sections: a self-assessment personality questionnaire and a behavioral assessment with workplace scenarios presented via text or video. |
| What are the two sections of the CSJT? | Section one evaluates aspiration and engagement through self-assessment, while section two assesses behavioral competencies through situational judgment scenarios. |
| How many questions are on the CSJT? | The test includes multiple scenarios with four rating options each, totaling approximately 36 behavioral questions plus self-assessment items. |
| Is the CSJT timed? | The CSJT is not strictly timed, allowing candidates to complete both sections at their own pace within five days of submission. |
| How do I register for the CSJT? | Registration occurs automatically through your Civil Service Jobs application when you apply for positions requiring the assessment. |
| Is there a fee for the CSJT? | No, the CSJT is provided free of charge to all candidates applying for UK Civil Service positions. |
| When can I take the CSJT? | You can take the test within five days of submitting your job application through the Civil Service Jobs portal. |
| Where do I take the Civil Service Judgment Test? | The CSJT is taken online from any location with internet access through the Civil Service Jobs application center. |
| What is a passing score for the CSJT? | Passing scores vary by job level and are determined by comparing your performance to other applicants in your candidate group. |
| How is the CSJT scored? | Scores are calculated based on question difficulty and number answered, then converted to percentiles comparing you against representative civil servant groups. |
| When do I receive CSJT results? | Results and feedback are available immediately after test completion through your Civil Service Jobs application center. |
| Can I retake the CSJT? | Yes, you can retake the CSJT when applying for new positions, though scores are banked for six months at the same grade. |
| How do I prepare for the CSJT? | Practice with the official CSJT practice test, review Civil Service behaviors, and familiarize yourself with situational judgment question formats. |
| Are there CSJT practice tests available? | Yes, an official free practice test is available on GOV.UK to help you understand the test format and question types. |
| What behaviors does the CSJT assess? | The test evaluates nine Civil Service behaviors including leadership, decision-making, collaboration, communication, and delivering quality service at pace. |
| What are the CSJT levels? | Six test levels correspond to job grades from Administrative Officer to Director-General, each assessing behaviors relevant to that grade. |
CSJT Test Format and Structure
Understanding the CSJT structure helps you prepare effectively. The test evaluates your behavioral competencies through two main sections, assessing how you would handle realistic workplace scenarios.
Rate statements about your workplace aspirations, motivation, and engagement on a seven-point scale from Completely Disagree to Completely Agree.
- Topics: Work preferences, career goals, values alignment
- Questions: ~15 self-assessment statements
Watch video or read text scenarios depicting workplace situations, then rate each possible response using the four-point effectiveness scale.
- Topics: Situational judgment, workplace decisions, behavioral responses
- Questions: ~36 scenario-based questions
Rate each action independently as Counterproductive, Ineffective, Fairly Effective, or Effective based on its likely impact on the situation.
- Topics: Independent rating per action, not ranking
- Questions: 4 options per scenario
Different test versions correspond to Civil Service grades from Administrative Officer (Level 1) to Director-General (Level 6).
- Topics: Role-appropriate scenarios and expectations
- Questions: Varies by grade level
The CSJT assesses behaviors from the Civil Service Success Profiles framework relevant to your target role and grade.
- Topics: Not all behaviors tested for every role
- Questions: Role-specific selection
Complete both sections within 5 days of starting. Most candidates finish in approximately 2 hours total working at their own pace.
- Topics: Can save progress and return later
- Questions: Complete at your convenience
Focus on understanding the nine Civil Service behaviors and how they apply to workplace scenarios. Practice identifying the most effective responses rather than the most aggressive or passive options. Remember that the CSJT measures judgment, not speed—take time to consider each scenario carefully.
CSJT Score Calculator
Estimate your CSJT performance based on correct answers. Remember, actual scoring compares you to other candidates.
CSJT Score Interpretation
Your CSJT score is determined by comparing your performance to other candidates. Understanding score ranges helps you evaluate your readiness.
| Score Range | Interpretation | Percentile | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90-100th Percentile | Exceptional | Top 10% | Strong candidate for most roles |
| 70-89th Percentile | Above Average | Top 30% | Competitive for target grade |
| 50-69th Percentile | Average | Top 50% | May pass for some roles |
| 30-49th Percentile | Below Average | Bottom 50% | Consider more preparation |
| 0-29th Percentile | Needs Improvement | Bottom 30% | Review behaviors, retake |
Your CSJT percentile compares your performance to other candidates. Higher percentiles indicate better judgment alignment with Civil Service expectations. Use your feedback report to identify areas for improvement and practice more scenarios before your next application.
How to Take the CSJT
The Civil Service Judgment Test is integrated into the UK Civil Service recruitment process. Follow these steps to successfully complete your assessment.
- Search Civil Service Jobs - Browse available positions on the official Civil Service Jobs portal and identify roles matching your skills and interests.
- Check CSJT Requirements - Review the job advertisement to confirm whether the CSJT is required and at what level for your target position.
- Submit Your Application - Complete and submit your job application through the Civil Service Jobs portal with all required information.
- Receive CSJT Invitation - You will receive an automatic invitation to take the CSJT via email after your application is submitted.
- Complete Section 1 - Finish the self-assessment questionnaire rating statements about your work preferences and motivations.
- Complete Section 2 - Watch or read workplace scenarios and rate each possible response using the four-point effectiveness scale.
- Review Results and Feedback - Access your results and detailed feedback immediately through your Civil Service Jobs application center.
CSJT Test Costs
The Civil Service Judgment Test is provided free of charge. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of investment.
The CSJT itself is completely free—there are no registration fees or test costs. Your primary investment is preparation time. Consider using free official practice materials and our comprehensive practice tests to maximize your chances of success.
CSJT Career Opportunities
Passing the CSJT opens doors to diverse career paths across UK government departments
CSJT Testing Contacts
For official information about the Civil Service Judgment Test and UK Civil Service recruitment, contact these authoritative resources.
Website: civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk
Services: Job applications, CSJT access, application tracking
Contact: Portal support available online
Website: gov.uk/civil-service
Services: Civil Service information, practice tests, guidance
Contact: Online resources available
Website: gov.uk/success-profiles
Services: Behavior frameworks, assessment guidance, preparation tips
Contact: Detailed guidance documents
Website: gov.uk/civil-service-hr
Services: Recruitment policies, accessibility support, general inquiries
Contact: Department contact available
Search for UK Civil Service positions on the official Civil Service Jobs portal. Filter by department, location, grade, and profession to find roles matching your skills and interests. Each job listing indicates whether the CSJT is required.
CSJT Test Day Checklist
Ready to Ace Your CSJT?
Start practicing now with our free CSJT practice tests and improve your chances of success in UK Civil Service recruitment.
Start Free CSJT Practice Test →CSJT Score Validity
Your CSJT scores have a validity period and can be reused for multiple applications during this time.
Your CSJT scores remain valid for 6 months and can be used for multiple applications at the same grade level. If you need to apply at a different grade or after your scores expire, simply retake the test with your new application.
CSJT Exam Questions and Answers
The CSJT evaluates whether candidates demonstrate the behavioral competencies and decision-making abilities necessary for success in UK Civil Service roles. It measures alignment with Civil Service values and assesses how candidates would respond to typical workplace scenarios they will encounter in public sector positions.
Six CSJT levels exist, corresponding to different Civil Service job grades. Level 1 is for Administrative Officer/Assistant positions, while Level 6 targets Director and Director-General roles. Each level assesses behaviors appropriate to the responsibilities and decision-making requirements of that grade.
The CSJT uses a four-point effectiveness scale: Counterproductive (makes situations worse), Ineffective (does not help), Fairly Effective (helps somewhat), and Effective (good solution). Candidates rate each possible action independently rather than ranking them.
Yes, your CSJT scores are banked for six months and can be reused for any Civil Service applications at the same grade level during this period. You will not need to retake the test when applying for different positions at the same grade.
If you do not meet the required standard, you can retake the CSJT when applying for other positions. Your score is compared to other applicants, and recruiters may adjust pass marks based on candidate pool strength. You will receive detailed feedback identifying areas for improvement.
Yes, the CSJT is taken entirely online from any location with internet access. You do not need to visit a testing center. The test is accessed through your Civil Service Jobs application center, allowing you to complete it at your convenience within the five-day window.
Most candidates complete the CSJT in under 30 minutes for the self-assessment section and 60-90 minutes for the behavioral scenarios, totaling approximately two hours. Since the test is not strictly timed, you can work at your own pace.
The nine behaviors are Seeing the Big Picture, Changing and Improving, Making Effective Decisions, Leadership, Communicating and Influencing, Working Together, Developing Self and Others, Managing a Quality Service, and Delivering at Pace.
Most UK Civil Service positions require the CSJT as part of the Success Profiles recruitment framework, though requirements vary by department and role. Some specialized positions may use alternative assessment methods. The job advertisement will clearly state whether the CSJT is required.
The self-assessment section presents statements about workplace aspirations, motivation, and engagement that you rate on a seven-point scale. This portion comprises 15% of your overall CSJT score and helps assessors understand your work preferences and ambitions.