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Typing test for a job application: what to expect and how to prepare

Many employers in the USA and Canada ask applicants to take a short typing test before an interview. It is usually quick, taken online, and used to screen out people who are far below the level the job needs. Knowing the format removes most of the stress.

Why employers test

Typing speed and accuracy are easy to measure and they predict how quickly someone can handle email, forms and records. A test also protects the employer from relying only on a line in a CV that cannot be checked.

Common formats

• Copy typing. You retype a passage of ordinary text, usually for one to five minutes. The result is words per minute and accuracy.
• Alphanumeric data entry. You copy names, codes, addresses and numbers into fields, often scored in keystrokes per hour.
• 10-key. You enter numbers on the numeric keypad. See the 10-key guide.
• Job-specific tests. Some roles use passages from the actual work, such as legal, medical or customer-service text.

Employers often send these through assessment platforms, with names such as Prove It or TestGorilla appearing in job-preparation material. You usually receive an email link and complete the test in your browser.

Scores employers usually look for

Requirements vary by job and employer, so read your advert first. As rough guidance, office and administrative adverts often ask for around 40 to 60 WPM. Data entry adverts often ask for 8,000 to 10,000 keystrokes per hour. Accuracy requirements of 95 percent or better are common, and 98 to 99 percent is typical where mistakes are costly. Canadian government clerk postings often state 40 WPM, which is covered in this guide, and US clerk posts are covered in the civil service clerk typist guide.

Before the test

• Read the instructions in the invitation email, including any time limit for starting the test.
• Use a full-size keyboard if you can, and the one you practise on.
• Close other tabs and programs, and use a stable internet connection.
• Practise for a week with the same time length, at the accuracy you need.
• Find a quiet place and sit with relaxed shoulders and wrists, as in the ergonomics guide.

During the test

• Read the passage start so you know the style, then begin at a steady pace instead of a sprint.
• Fix errors only if the test rules allow it and if it costs you less time than leaving them.
• Do not paste text or use shortcuts. Platforms can detect unusual input and it can disqualify you.
• If you notice a mistake, do not stop to regret it. Keep rhythm, because losing several seconds hurts more than one wrong word.

After the test

Some employers show your score straight away and some do not. If you fall short, ask politely whether a retake is allowed, because policies differ between employers. Then use your result to see whether speed or accuracy needs work, and practise for the gap.

An honest way to score your practice

When you practise for an employer test, treat your number as the average of your last five runs, not your best. Employers see one attempt on one day, usually with nerves, so your average minus a few WPM is closer to what they will see. If that average is still comfortably above the figure in the advert, and your accuracy meets the stated minimum, you are in good shape.

What to write about it on your application

If the application form asks for typing speed, give a net figure from a recent test with its accuracy. Do not guess. If there is no field, you can mention it in one line on your CV. If the employer will test you anyway, a modest honest number is better than a high one you cannot match in the test.

Frequently asked questions

How long is an employer typing test?

Most are short, from one to five minutes of typing. Data entry and job-specific assessments may have several parts and take longer in total.

What typing speed do employers want?

It depends on the job. Office roles often ask for about 40 to 60 words per minute and data entry roles often ask for 8,000 to 10,000 keystrokes per hour, usually with at least 95 percent accuracy.

Can I retake an employer typing test?

Sometimes. Policies differ, so check the instructions or ask the employer. Do not assume you can try again.

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