Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT) and NEIEP Practice Tests

Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT) Preparation

Are you applying for a job as an elevator mechanic? We are to walk you through everything you need to know about the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test. Once you submit your application and you meet the minimum application requirements you will be given your testing information. It is extremely important that you prepare in advance for this test because if you don't get at least a 70% you will not pass on to the interview. Let's learn some more about the exam with FREE sample questions, answers, and explanations.

Take an EIAT Practice Test.

What Is on the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test?

All applicants who submit their application within a timely manner will be permitted to take an EIAT Test. The Elevator Aptitude test was designed to test your reading, math, and mechanical aptitude for employment in the elevator industry. The test is a 100 question multiple choice paper based exam. The tests covers these three primary areas:

Reading Comprehension

This section will require the candidate to display their English word understanding, sentence comprehension, grammar, spelling, and reading comprehension skills. You will be asked to complete sentences and questions related to your general vocabulary knowledge. This section will have between 25-35 questions and it will take 25 minutes to complete.

Mechanical Comprehension

This section will cover basic mechanical concepts related to the job. Questions will cover topics such as; gears, pulleys, levers, and forces. This section will have between 25-25 questions and take 25 minutes to complete. This section is considered the hardest on the test.

Arithmetic Computation

This section will require applicants to use basic math skills (or numerical reasoning) and may require understanding of common math formulas. Expect to tackle arithmetic, basic algebra, and fraction and decimal questions. This section will have between 25-35 questions and take 40 minutes to complete. Unfortunately, you CANNOT USE A CALCULATOR in this section.

Start practicing with this FREE EIAT Test Prep.

What Is the Tools Assessment?

In addition to the Elevator Aptitude Test you will need to complete a short tool assessment. For this test you should have knowledge of basic tools and their use, as well as basic measuring skills. The tools vary from Phillips screwdriver, lineman's pliers, diagonal cutters, crimpers, to tape measure. Ensure you practice reading measuring tape before the test. Take a look at this helpful free guide on how to read a measuring tape.

Brush up on your tool knowledge with this Elevator Union Practice tool assessment test.

EIAT Sample Questions, Answers, and Explanations

1. Numerical Reasoning Basic Math Sample Question

What is 2548 x 0.01?

  1. 25.48
  2. 2.548
  3. 254.8
  4. 0.2548
  5. 0.02548
Answer

A. 25.48

To solve 2548 x 0.01, multiply 2548 by 0.01. 

Multiplying by 0.01 is the same as moving the decimal point two places to the left:

2548 x 0.01 = 25.48

So, the correct answer is A. 25.48.

2. Numerical Reasoning Sample Fraction and Decimal Question

What is 1.2 - 3/10?

  1. 9/10
  2. 0.9
  3. 6/10
  4. 12/10
  5. 1.5 
Answer

B. 0.9

First, convert 3/10 to a decimal: 

3/10 = 0.3

Next, subtract 0.3 from 1.2:

1.2 - 0.3 = 0.9

So, the correct answer is B. 0.9

3. Mechanical Reasoning Sample Gears Sample Question

Which direction will the swings tilt?

Elevator Aptitude Test (EIAT) - Free Mechanical Reasoning Sample Gears Sample Question
  1. A – Up; B – Down
  2. A – Down; B – Up
  3. Both Up
  4. Both Down
Answer

To figure out the tilt direction of the swings, you need to analyze the rotation direction of each gear interacting with the swings, labeled as gears A and B in the picture above.

There are 8 gears between the red gear and gear A, so gear A rotates in the same direction as the red gear—counterclockwise. This causes the right arm of swing A to tilt downward (indicated by the blue arrow), making the opposite side tilt upward.

Likewise, there are 7 gears between the red gear and gear B, so gear B rotates in the opposite direction—clockwise. This results in the right arm of swing B tilting upward and the left side tilting downward.

Therefore, the correct answer is A.

4. Mechanical Reasoning Force and Torque Sample Question

Which bike rider has to pedal harder in order to go up the ramp?

Elevator Aptitude Test (EIAT) - Mechanical Reasoning Force and Torque Sample Question
  1. A
  2. B
  3. The same
Answer

This question asks which rider would need to pedal harder to climb the ramp.

Although the ramps are of different lengths, both have the same height. This means the shorter ramp will be steeper. As we know from experience, a steeper incline makes pedaling more difficult.

In Figure B, the ramp is shorter and steeper, making it harder to pedal up. Therefore, the correct answer is choice B.

5. Verbal Reasoning Sentence Completion Sample Question

"Despite the project's initial challenges, the team's __________ approach led to a __________ outcome."

  1. rigid … mediocre
  2. flexible … successful
  3. hesitant … disappointing
  4. disorganized … promising
Answer

B. flexible … successful

The sentence suggests that the team's approach was crucial in determining the project's outcome.

  • "Rigid" implies inflexibility, which is unlikely to lead to a positive result, so A is incorrect.
  • "Hesitant" implies uncertainty, which typically would not lead to a good outcome, so C is incorrect.
  • "Disorganized" would likely result in a less favorable outcome, so D is also incorrect.
  • "Flexible" suggests adaptability, which would help in overcoming challenges, leading to a "successful" outcome.

Thus, B is the best choice.

6. Verbal Reasoning Sample Grammar & Spelling Sample

The new software update is __________ a major improvement over the previous version, addressing __________ issues that users have reported.

  1. certainly, several
  2. ceratinly, severel
  3. certainly, several
  4. certanly, sevral
  5. None of these
Answer

A. certainly, several

In the sentence, the correct options should have proper spelling and grammar:

  • "Ceratinly" and "certanly" are misspellings of "certainly," so options B and D are incorrect.
  • "Severel" and "sevral" are misspellings of "several," so options B and D are incorrect.
  • "Certainly" is the correct spelling and usage for "A," and "several" is correctly spelled.

Therefore, the correct choice is A.

Learn more with this NEIEP Study Guide.

Elevator Aptitude Test FAQs

What Do I Need to Be Eligible to Take the Elevator Test?

To apply for the NEIEP Apprenticeship, you must meet the following standards set by the NEIEP Apprenticeship Board:

  1. Age: You must be 18 years or older.
  2. Education: You must have at least a high school diploma or a state-approved GED equivalent.
  3. Work Authorization: You must be authorized to work in the USA.

Required Documentation:

  • High school diploma, GED test results, or equivalent verification.
  • DD-214 copy 4 (for veterans).
  • Negative drug screening test.

How Long After I Submit my Application Will I Take My EIAT Test?

Assuming you meet the eligibility criteria you should expect to get an exam date within 15 days of the IUEC receiving your completed application and other associated forms.

What are Some Other Names for the Elevator Aptitude Test?

There is lots of confusion around the name of the Elevator Test. That is because the name of the exam has been changed a number of times. Don't let this worry you, here are some of the different names for the exam:

  • Elevator Test
  • Elevator Industry Aptitude Test
  • Elevator Mechanic Apprenticeship Entrance Exam
  • Elevator Mechanics Exam
  • Elevator Apprenticeship Test
  • NEIEP Aptitude Test
  • NEIEP Application Test
  • Tech Elevator Aptitude Test
  • IUEC Aptitude test

They are all the same test and you should prepare for them the same way!

What Do I Need to Take with Me to the Elevator Union Aptitude Test?

Once you are scheduled to take the test the day and time cannot be changed. You will be required to present a picture ID in order to sit for the exam.

How Long Is the EIAT Test?

The test lasts 90 minutes. The reading section lasts 25 minutes, the mechanical section lasts 25 minutes, and the math section lasts 40 minutes.

What Happens If I Fail the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT)?

If you fail the EIAT, you won't pass on to the interview portion of the application process. You will immediately be removed from the pool of applicants. But, you may re-apply during the next recruitment period.

How Is the NEIEP Aptitude Test Scored?

A passing score on the EIAT is 70%. That is the minimum grade you need to get in order to continue with the process. It is important to note that it is not enough to simply pass the test, you must excel. This is because applicants are divided into four different tiers.

The Four-Tier Division

The ranking is based on the final score, which is the sum of your EIAT, tool test, and interview scores. Employers divide candidates into four tiers:

  • Tier 1: 96-100 points
  • Tier 2: 90-95 points
  • Tier 3: 80-89 points
  • Tier 4: 70-79 points

You want to aim for the top tier. The higher your score, the better your chances of being hired.

Reach that top tier, take a Practice Elevator Apprentice Exam now.

How Long Are My Elevator Industry Aptitude Test Scores Valid For?

Your rank from the elevator industry recruitment process is valid for two years. If you do not secure an apprenticeship within that period, you will need to retake the test and start the process over. This also means your tier will be locked in for two years.

When Will I Get My Elevator Test Results? 

The arrival time for EIAT test results varies. Once you receive your results, you will also get your rank according to your combined test and interview scores. The higher your rank, the sooner you can expect to land an apprenticeship. So the best way you can speed up your application process is by coming in prepared for the Elevator Aptitude Test and having a desirable tier.

What Are Some Test Tips for the NEIEP Aptitude Test?

  • There is NO penalty for answering a question incorrectly. This means it is beneficial to guess.
  • Passing is NOT enough. It is important to do well on the exam because you will receive a ranking based on your test score and interview score. Those in a higher tier will get a competitive apprenticeship much sooner.
  • Make sure to practice in advance because your score will be locked in for two years 
    In the math section, check if you can select the correct answer without solving the entire question.This will save you time and energy.
  • In the mechanical section, consider extreme scenarios if you are stuck on a question. For example, if you are asked if it 's more difficult to row with a long vs. short paddle, compare using a 10 foot vs. a 1-inch paddle. 
  • In the verbal section, pay attention to the word "and" before a blank; the missing word will be similar in meaning to the word before "and." 

When Do You Take the Tools Assessment?

Expect to take the Elevator Tools Test only after you pass the EIAT.

Learn more about the next step in the elevator industry interview with these NEIEP interview questions and answers.

Which Companies Use the EIAT Test?

Excelling on the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT) is essential for obtaining an apprenticeship in the elevator industry. You will need to take this test when applying to ANY elevator company. Employers in this industry collaborate closely with the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) to find strong candidates. During your interview, one of your two interviewers will be a representative from your prospective employer.

Major employers in the elevator industry include:

  • OTIS
  • Schindler
  • Thyssenkrupp
  • WMATA

Who Gives the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test?

The EIAT was developed by the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP) for the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC). NEIEP's mission is to improve the knowledge and skills of apprentices. This benefits workers, employers, and the entire elevator industry.

Do All IUEC Locals Take the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT)?

Yes, the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT) was designed to establish a uniform standard for all apprenticeship candidates. Therefore, all applicants for all IUEC locals take the same test.

What Happens After I Take the Elevator Test?

If you score 70% or higher on the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test, you will be scheduled for an interview. Some applicants may also need to take a tools test.

The interview, lasting about 15-20 minutes, will be done by two interviewers - one from the IUEC and the other from the employer. Topics covered might include:

  • Education and experience
  • Motivation
  • Safety
  • Work-related behavior

How Can I Prepare for the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test?

We recommend using this NEIP Elevator Industry Aptitude test practice pack. This study guide mimics the actual test and will give you the leg up you need to succeed. With competitive salary and benefits landing an elevator mechanic position will not be an easy task. 

Learn more about How to Become an Elevator Mechanic.

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