The graduate standardisation examination (GSE) is a graduate assessment examination based on the United Kingdom First Graduate Assessment (UK FGA). It is similar to the study-abroad General Method Aptitude Test (GMAT) that is used for objectively assessing the capability of an individual.
GSE is an aptitude test that will eventually replace all job aptitude test in Nigeria. GSE will help employers to objectively assess the reasoning ability of prospective job seekers. It will also help graduates of institutions of higher learning to assess their capability.
Already some employers now ask job applicants for GSE score as a one of the requirement for being invited for further testing or interview. This means that in the future graduates without GSE score may have very few jobs to choose from.
But, how do you get a GSE score?
First, you have to register at www.gse.org.ng (GSE official website). During the registration, you enter your details (name, email, phone number, CV, and so on). Your GSE ID will be sent to you via email, so ensure you enter a valid email in the registration form. Registration is free.
The GSE ID must be kept safe, as this will be demanded by employers in addition to your GSE score. This will enable employers to check whether the score you claim you truly belongs to you. Each graduate is expected to register once and hence possess only one GSE ID. Avoid multiple registration, as that will disqualify you.
Although registration is free, you will have to pay N5,000 to seat for the aptitude test. Payment can be made with any InterSwitch compatible ATM card, UBA X-change card or eTranzact. For details of this payment options and Banks where payment can be made visit GSE website. All payments are made on the GSE website.
Once you pay the examination fee you can then schedule the time you want to seat for the test. You seat for the exam anytime you are ready, but you must schedule yourself for the exam. It is good advice to prepare adequately for the aptitude test before seating for it. This is because if you do not perform well in the exam you have to wait for at least six months before taking another test. So make sure you are ready before scheduling yourself for the test.
The aptitude test will usually take place in a venue close to you. During scheduling, you will also select the test venue. Choose a venue close to you. GSE test centres are spread through out the country. GSE normally use AFRIHUB centres in some universities. This is the case in Awka, Anambra State; Enugu, Enugu State; Port Harcourt, Rivers State; Benin, Edo State; Ota, Ogun State; Minna, Niger State; and FCT Abuja where AFRIHUB centres double as GSE centres. Off course, there is a centre in Lagos. For a list of all test centres, visit the GSE test center page.
This is a major advantage of GSE, graduate do not need to travel from all over Nigeria to Lagos to seat for aptitude test they can do that in a centre closer to home.
The aptitude test is divided into three sections namely:
- Numerical Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Abstract Reasoning
The exam will consist of a total 56 questions and will last 49 minutes although 2 hours will be allocated for the test.
Once you obtain your GSE score, you can use it to apply for job vacancies published by employers who subscribe to it and their quite a number of them now and many more will join in the future. You can also include your GSE score and ID in your CV. GSE score is valid for two years.
If you are a gradate of a University, Polytechnic, College of education or any other institution of higher learning and you intend working in Nigeria, you should seriously consider seating for the GSE exam. If your NYSC service year is ending, it is also a good time to seat for the aptitude test.
Here are some key points about GSE:
- GSE is similar to GMAT
- Registration is free
- Cost for the test is N5,000
- Test consists of three sections Numerical, Verbal and Abstract Reasoning
- GSE score is valid for two (2) years
- Exam an be taken by anyone irrespective of age and level of experience
- Exam centres are available nationwide
- Exams can be taken only at six (6) months interval (this may be necessary if you do not perform well)
- Payment can be made via InterSwitch ATM card, UBA X-change card or eTranzact
