The Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) is a group-administered aptitude test for grades K-12 used to estimate students’ reasoning and problem solving skills. Unlike assessment tests which measure what a student has already learned, aptitude tests are designed to measure intellectual ability, focusing on analytic and problem solving skills rather than specific knowledge.
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The OLSAT exam uses between 9 and 15 question types to test children in four main categories (verbal, nonverbal, figural reasoning, and quantitative reasoning). The number of questions on the OLSAT exam ranges from 40-72 depending on grade level. Question types on each test are determined by grade level and can be classified into the 4 content sections described above. With administration time, the OLSAT exam takes between 1-1¼ hours to complete.
For a more in-depth description of the OLSAT exam, utilize our Frequently Asked Questions page to answer any questions you may still have.
The best way to prepare for the OLSAT exam is by exposing your child to the exam format and the types of questions they will see on the day of the test. Mercer Publishing's OLSAT practice test books each contain two full-length practice exams with same number of questions and format as the actual exam, and come with answers and explanations. By using Mercer Publishing's practice tests, children are able to practice using the same types of questions and format they will see the day of the test. This helps to lesson test anxiety and will diagnose any problems children are having that require additional practice. We also have downloadable versions of our books which are available for Mac and PC users for instant access.
To see what typical questions look like, view our free OLSAT Sample Questions here.