Registration for the 2026 paper-based cognitive ability test has begun via Qiyas
The Education and Training Evaluation Commission in Saudi Arabia has officially announced the opening of registration for the paper-based cognitive ability test, starting tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The commission clarified that the registration period will be extended to allow everyone ample opportunity to register, ending on Saturday, April 25, 2026, through its official online portal, in preparation for administering the tests on the scheduled dates.
Dates and procedures for holding paper-based exams
As part of the schedule established by the Authority to ensure the smooth and accurate execution of organizational processes, April 27th and 28th, 2026, have been set as the final dates for conducting the paper-based tests at the various approved centers. This announcement reflects the Authority's ongoing commitment to administering standardized tests and enhancing the efficiency of measurement and evaluation processes, thereby guaranteeing high-quality and fully reliable services for graduates and job seekers.
What is a cognitive ability test and why is it important?
The cognitive ability test is one of the most important standardized tools used by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and other government agencies in the Kingdom to differentiate between applicants for administrative positions (within the civil service system, excluding health and education positions). The test aims to measure an individual's cognitive abilities and potential for understanding relationships between things and events, as well as for making judgments and evaluating life situations.
This test does not rely directly on pure academic knowledge, but rather focuses on measuring four key abilities:
- Verbal ability: Understanding the meanings of words and using them effectively.
- Quantitative capability: Digital information processing.
- Reasoning ability: logical thinking to reach conclusions.
- Spatial ability: the visual perception of shapes and geometric relationships.
The strategic impact of standardized testing
These tests are of paramount importance nationally, as they contribute to strengthening the principles of fairness and transparency in government recruitment and ensuring the selection of the most suitable candidates for public sector jobs. This aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which focuses on developing human capital and enhancing the efficiency of government performance by attracting qualified personnel capable of keeping pace with the rapid developments in the work environment.
Registration method and instructions from the authority
The authority urged all those wishing to take the test to promptly complete the registration process through the e-services portal of the Qiyas platform (e-services.etec.gov.sa) within the specified timeframe. The authority emphasized that adhering to the deadlines is essential to securing a seat, and stressed the importance of carefully reviewing the instructions and requirements to ensure application acceptance and avoid any technical obstacles that might prevent taking the test.
