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| The three Part Study Plan |
Cracking the Code: The Ultimate Guide to Acing Nigerian Bank Aptitude Tests (GMAT vs. SHL)
To prepare for Nigerian bank aptitude tests, you must first identify the test provider (e.g., Workforce Group, Dragnet, or SHL). Most banks like Access Bank and First Bank use the SHL format (speed and accuracy), while Zenith and GTBank often include GMAT-style critical reasoning. The golden rule is to practice with timed past questions daily for at least two weeks before the exam date.
SHL vs. GMAT: What is the Difference?
If you don't know the difference, you are studying blind. Here is the breakdown for the Nigerian market:
SHL (The "Speed" Test):
Used By: Access Bank, First Bank, UBA, and many oil companies.
The Vibe: The questions are relatively easy, but the time is impossible. You might have 25 minutes to answer 30 questions.
Strategy: Don't get stuck. If you can't solve it in 45 seconds, guess and move on. Accuracy and speed matter equally.
GMAT (The "Logic" Test):
Used By: Zenith Bank, Investment Banks, and Consulting Firms (like KPMG).
The Vibe: These questions are harder and require deep critical thinking. You might see "Data Sufficiency" or complex "Critical Reasoning" paragraphs.
Strategy: You need to learn the rules of logic. Speed is less important than getting the logic right.
Bank-Specific Cheatsheet (2026 Edition)
GTBank (GTB): Known for their "Computer Based Test" (CBT) which includes Spatial Reasoning (shapes and patterns). You need to be good at visualizing objects rotating in 3D space.
Access Bank: Heavily relies on SHL. Focus on Numerical Reasoning (interpreting graphs and tables) and Verbal Reasoning.
Zenith Bank: Often mixes GMAT-style critical reasoning with general knowledge and current affairs. Read up on the Nigerian economy!.
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| GMAT vs. SHL: Where to Focus |
3 Steps to Guarantee a Pass
Get the "Dragnet" Past Questions: Dragnet is a major test provider in Nigeria. If you master Dragnet questions, you can pass almost any bank test.
Practice Under Pressure: Never practice without a timer. If the real test gives you 1 minute per question, practice with 45 seconds per question to build a "buffer".
Learn the "Elimination Method": In GMAT/SHL questions, two options are usually obviously wrong. Learn to spot them immediately so you only have to guess between the remaining three. This increases your probability of success from 20% to 33%.
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| A determined young Nigerian graduate studying at a desk late at night |
Final Verdict
Aptitude tests are not designed to test your intelligence; they are designed to test your composure. The candidate who stays calm and manages their time will always beat the candidate who is smart but panics.
Download our Free "Bank Test Starter Pack" (PDF) in the Resources section!