Exam & Assessment Glossary

Understand important exam, testing and assessment terminology with simple explanations. Explore concepts, learn new terms and build your knowledge.

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A

Achievement test

A test that measures what a student has already learned in a subject.

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Aptitude test

A test that estimates how well someone is likely to perform in a skill or field.

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C

Computer-based test

An exam taken on a computer instead of on paper.

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Criterion-referenced test

A test that compares a student against a fixed standard, not against other students.

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Cut-off

The minimum score a candidate needs to qualify for the next stage of an exam.

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M

Mock test

A practice exam that copies the format, timing and marking of a real test.

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N

Negative marking

A scoring rule that takes marks away for each wrong answer.

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Norm-referenced test

A test that ranks a student against the performance of other test takers.

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O

Objective test

A test with fixed correct answers that can be marked without personal judgement.

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OMR sheet

A printed answer sheet where candidates fill in bubbles that a machine reads.

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Open book test

An exam where students may use their notes or books while answering.

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Oral test

An exam where students answer questions by speaking.

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P

Percentile

The percentage of test takers who scored at or below a given score.

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R

Raw score

The marks a student earns on a test before any scaling or normalisation.

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T

Test series

A planned set of mock tests that students take over a preparation period.

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