Aptitude Test Schedule for Public Service Commission (PSC) GRE 1/2025: What Shortlisted Candidates Need to Know

The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Uganda has released the shortlist for the Graduate Recruitment Exercise (GRE) 1/2025, and thousands of fresh graduates across the country are gearing up for the next critical step: the aptitude tests scheduled for September 2025. If you’re among the shortlisted candidates, congratulations on making it this far! Now, it’s time to prepare strategically to secure your spot as a graduate trainee in Uganda’s public service. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the PSC GRE aptitude test schedule, what to expect, essential preparation tips, and last-minute advice to help you excel. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the PSC GRE 1/2025 Aptitude Test Schedule

The PSC announced the GRE 1/2025 shortlist, with aptitude tests set to take place in September 2025 at designated venues, including Makerere University and regional centers across Uganda. According to official communications, shortlisted candidates must check their details on the PSC e-recruitment portal (https://vacancies.psc.go.ug/ors) to confirm their test schedules, venues, and specific requirements. The aptitude tests are a mandatory phase for all shortlisted applicants vying for graduate trainee positions in various government ministries and agencies.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Shortlist Release: Already published, with candidates notified via the PSC portal and official notices.
• Appeals Deadline: September 12, 2025, was the last day to appeal if your name was missing or details were incorrect. If you missed this, focus on preparing for the test.
• Aptitude Test Dates: Scheduled throughout September 2025, with specific dates and times assigned to candidates based on their application details. Check your exam card on the PSC portal for your exact slot.
• Venues: Major testing centers include Makerere University (Kampala), Gulu University, Mbarara University, and other regional hubs to accommodate candidates nationwide.

Pro Tip: Log in to the PSC e-recruitment portal regularly to avoid missing updates. Print your exam card as soon as possible, as it includes your test date, time, venue, and candidate number.

What to Expect in the PSC GRE Aptitude Test

The PSC aptitude tests are designed to assess a range of skills critical for public service roles. These tests typically include:

1. Numerical Reasoning: Questions on basic arithmetic, percentages, ratios, data interpretation (e.g., graphs, tables), and financial calculations. Expect 20–30 questions to be completed in a tight time frame.
2. Verbal Reasoning: Tests your ability to understand written information, identify key points, and answer comprehension questions. This section often includes passages relevant to public service scenarios.
3. Logical Reasoning: Includes pattern recognition, sequence completion, and diagrammatic puzzles to evaluate problem-solving and critical thinking.
4. General Knowledge: May cover current affairs, Ugandan government structures, and basic public administration concepts.

Each section is timed, typically lasting 30–45 minutes, with a total test duration of about 2–3 hours. The tests are multiple-choice and conducted on paper or computer-based formats, depending on the venue. PSC emphasizes accuracy and speed, so time management is crucial.

Fun Fact: Past GRE candidates have noted that numerical reasoning often includes questions on Uganda’s budget allocations or public sector statistics, so brushing up on recent government reports can give you an edge!

Essential Preparation Tips for the PSC GRE Aptitude Test

To maximize your chances of passing, follow these actionable preparation strategies tailored to the PSC GRE 1/2025 aptitude tests:

1. Understand the Test Format

Familiarize yourself with the structure by practicing with sample aptitude tests. Resources like Job Test Prep or SHL practice tests mirror PSC’s format, focusing on numerical, verbal, and logical reasoning. Search for “PSC Uganda aptitude test samples” online or check jobnotices.ug for free practice questions tailored to the GRE.

Action Step: Dedicate 1–2 hours daily to practicing sample questions. Focus on areas where you’re weakest, such as fractions for numerical reasoning or reading comprehension for verbal sections.

2. Brush Up on Numerical Skills

Numerical reasoning is often the toughest section for candidates. Practice:

• Percentages and Ratios: Common in budget-related questions (e.g., “If a ministry’s budget is UGX 500M and 20% is allocated to salaries, calculate the amount.”).
• Data Interpretation: Study tables, bar charts, and pie charts, as these are frequent in PSC tests.
• Basic Arithmetic: Ensure you’re comfortable with quick calculations without a calculator, as they’re often not allowed.

3. Sharpen Verbal Reasoning

Read Ugandan news articles (e.g., from Daily Monitor or New Vision) to improve comprehension speed. Practice summarizing passages in your own words and answering questions under time pressure. PSC tests often include passages about government policies or public service scenarios. Practice Hack: Set a timer for 2 minutes per passage and aim to answer 5 questions correctly. Gradually reduce the time to simulate test conditions.

4. Master Logical

Reasoning Logical tests assess your ability to spot patterns and solve puzzles. Practice sequence questions (e.g., number series like 2, 4, 8, 16, ?) and diagrammatic reasoning (e.g., flowcharts). Websites like Assessment Day offer free logical reasoning tests that align with PSC’s style.

Quick Tip: Look for patterns in shapes, numbers, or letters. Write down your thought process to avoid confusion during the test.

5. Stay Informed on Current Affairs

General knowledge questions may cover Uganda’s government structure, recent policies, or key public figures. Review:

• The structure of Uganda’s ministries and agencies (available on government websites).
• Recent national budgets or development plans (e.g., NDP III).
• Current events from 2024–2025 via trusted Ugandan news outlets.

Study Hack: Create flashcards with key facts (e.g., “Who is the current Minister of Public Service?”) and review them daily.

6. Simulate Test Conditions

Practice under timed conditions to build speed and confidence.

Set up a quiet space, use a stopwatch, and complete a full practice test (numerical, verbal, logical) in one sitting. Aim for 80% accuracy or higher. Tool Tip: Use a free timer app like Focus Booster to track your practice sessions.

Test Day Essentials: What to Bring and Do To avoid last-minute stress, prepare these items and follow these steps:

• Exam Card: Print it from the PSC portal. It’s your entry ticket and includes your candidate number and venue details.
• Valid ID: Bring a national ID, passport, or institutional ID (as specified by PSC).
• Stationery: Carry blue or black pens, pencils, an eraser, and a sharpener. Calculators are typically not allowed, so confirm with your exam instructions.
• Arrival Time: Arrive at least 30 minutes early (e.g., if your test is at 9:00 AM, be there by 8:30 AM). Venues like Makerere University can be busy, so plan for traffic.
• Dress Code: Opt for smart-casual attire to make a professional impression, as some centers may conduct brief interviews post-test.

Test Day Tip: Eat a light breakfast and stay hydrated to maintain focus. Avoid heavy meals that could make you sluggish.

Last-Minute Advice for September 2025 With the tests happening soon, prioritize these final steps:

• Review Weak Areas: Spend the last week focusing on your weakest section (e.g., numerical reasoning if math isn’t your strength).
• Rest Well: Get 7–8 hours of sleep the night before to stay sharp.
• Double-Check Logistics: Confirm your venue and time on the PSC portal. If you’re traveling to a regional center like Gulu or Mbarara, plan your journey early.
• Stay Calm: During the test, skip tough questions and return to them later to maximize your score within the time limit.

Why the PSC GRE Aptitude Test Matters Passing the aptitude test is your gateway to a prestigious graduate trainee role in Uganda’s public service. These positions offer stability, professional growth, and the chance to contribute to national development. With thousands of applicants competing, thorough preparation sets you apart.

The PSC uses these tests to identify candidates with strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills—qualities essential for roles in ministries like Finance, Health, or Education.

Next Steps After the Test: Once you complete the aptitude test, results are typically posted on the PSC portal within weeks. Successful candidates may proceed to oral interviews or additional assessments. Keep checking jobnotices.ug for updates on results, interview tips, and further GRE guidance.

Call-to-Action: Share your preparation tips or test day experiences in the comments below! Need more practice questions or personalized advice? Visit jobnotices.ug for free resources and join our community of aspiring graduate trainees.