Every candidate applying for such a scheme will need to pass a pre-screening assessment known as the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT). This article will walk you through what the EIAT test is, what to expect on the day of your elevator mechanics exam and how best to prepare.
What Is the EIAT Test?
The EIAT test is administered by the International Union of Elevator Construction (IUEC) and the National Elevator Industry as a screening assessment for entry onto the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP). The NEIEP takes applications from candidates wishing to join an elevator industry apprenticeship scheme, so if this is your chosen career path, you’ll be required to sit an EIAT test. In addition, you’ll also need to sit a tools recognition exam and attend an interview, in which you will also be scored. The EIAT test is the first stage of the recruitment process and must be passed before you can progress to interview.
What Is Being Assessed?
The EIAT test is designed to measure both your existing skills and knowledge and your ability to apply your understanding to a range of scenarios. You’ll be tested on your numerical, reading and mechanical aptitude, with each ability addressed in its own section of the test.
Numerical Skills
This part of the test is referred to as the math (or arithmetic computation) section. It is not a complex math exam but rather focuses on basic numeracy and general arithmetic, including subtraction, addition, division, multiplication, fractions and percentages. This section shows potential employers that you have a good level of numerical ability and can perform basic calculations both accurately and at speed.
Reading Skills
These are tested in the reading comprehension section of the EIAT test. Questions will measure your vocabulary and knowledge of definitions, synonyms and antonyms. Again, this is not a complex exam, but gives employers a good indication of your grasp of the English language, and thus your ability to communicate to the required standard. It’s not just about what you know, but how you put your knowledge into practice. Questions relating to things like gears, pulleys and force will show your ability to apply the correct concepts and principles to solve a given problem. As these skills are central to your role as an elevator mechanic, this section of the EIAT test is used to predict your future performance as an employee.
Question Formats and Type
Within each section of the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test, you’ll encounter several different question types. However, all will be multiple-choice. Below is an outline of what you can expect, with some example questions and answers.
Arithmetic Computation Section
In this section, you can expect to come across two main question types:
Basic arithmetic Fractions, decimals and percentages
Basic Arithmetic
This will be a mix of straight-forward calculations and sums that require you to understand the order of operations. a) 63,090 b) 62,090 c) 63,280 d) 63,140 a) 4/6 b) 4/9 c) 5/6 d) 4/3 a) progress, achieved b) skip, get c) progress, achieve d) move, achieve Which of the following is a suitable replacement for the word ’valuable’? a) beneficial b) precious c) profitable d) interesting a) Cog A b) Cog B c) Cog C d) All of the cogs will rotate at the same speed
The EIAT test is a paper-based exam, On application to the NEIEP, you’ll be given a specific test date and time at a designated assessment center. It’s important to note that test dates cannot be changed, and you must take a valid form of photo ID with you on the day to prove your identity. All three sections of the exam are multiple-choice, and each consists of between 30 to 35 questions. The EIAT is a timed assessment. You’ll have 25 minutes per section, giving a total test time of 75 minutes. Calculators are not permitted in the examination room.
Anyone achieving below the threshold will be required to start the recruitment process from scratch. If you achieve a score of 70% or above on the EIAT test, you’ll sit your tools recognition exam and attend your scored interview. The results from all three stages will be combined to give your overall performance score, which employers will use to assess your suitability. This score is valid for two years. Overall performance scores are split into four tiers:
96 – 100 points = tier one 90 – 95 points = tier two 80 – 89 points = tier three 70 – 79 points = tier four
As competition for elevator industry apprenticeships is fierce, the higher you rank the better your chances are of securing a place. Performing well on your EIAT test will help you stand out from your fellow applicants.
How to Pass the EIAT Test
Before your elevator mechanics exam, be sure to take plenty of practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and question types you’ll face on the day. This is an important part of your career journey, so preparation is vital. Also, try these top tips to help you achieve the highest score possible on your EIAT test: Questions in the math section are not complex, and the skills you need can be easily mastered with practice. The more you focus on your numerical ability the quicker you’ll become, which is important when taking a test under time constraints. With that in mind, it’s always better to take an educated guess on any questions you’re unsure of. Remember, this is a multiple-choice exam, so there’s always the chance you’ll pick the correct answer. This will help you decipher which words to choose from your multiple-choice options. Points can easily be missed in this section if you simply skim-read the questions. If you’re struggling to picture the effects of a physical principle, exaggerate the process in your head. So, for example, instead of working with two items that only slightly differ in size or weight, imagine them as extreme opposites. So, use the day before to run over your revision notes and remind yourself of everything you’ve learned. Each part of the test includes between 30 and 35 multiple-choice questions. Major employers in the elevator industry include OTIS, Schindler and WMATA, and all of these employers use the EIAT. If you pass, your scores from the three stages of the test will be combined, giving an overall performance score. This score is valid for two years, and employers will use it to decide whether you are suitable for the job role that you have applied for. The test is based on principles and processes, which can be forgotten easily when working under exam conditions. The day before the test, spend time going through your notes and revisiting everything that you have learned in the weeks leading up to the test. This will help you to feel more confident on the day of the EIAT. This notification will be sent to you within 15 days of the IUEC receiving your application and accompanying documents. Success in this exam is paramount as most employers will start recruitment with those who rank in the top tier of the scoring system. As mentioned, this is not an overly complex exam. Even if you’re not completely comfortable with the numerical and reading comprehension elements, some structured practice will go a long way in helping you achieve a high score. Remember, the pass mark is 70%, but to rank in tier one overall you should aim above the minimum requirement. In doing so, you’ll open doors to a dynamic and financially rewarding career.
