Candidates who apply for CSCS cards may have some questions about the test. How hard is the CSCS test? What is the pass rate of this test? And, how to successfully master the test? This article will give you further information on these questions.

1. What is the CSCS test?

The CSCS test, or CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, is a mandatory requirement for all card types application. The test aims to verify the adequate knowledge and skills to work safely and healthily on construction sites. 

With the time limit of 45 minutes, you need to answer 50 multiple-choice questions so as to pass the CSCS test. There will be 3 different tests appropriate for 3 trades and professions including:

  • CSCS test for operatives

– 12 behavioral case study questions 

– 38 core knowledge base questions

  • CSCS test for specialists

– 6 specialist questions 

– 32 core knowledge base questions

– 12 behavioral case study questions

  • CSCS test for managers and professionals 

– behavioral case studies

– 5 core knowledge sections 

– relevant specialist knowledge from Construction regulations, demolition, and highway works

>> Read more: CSCS test pass mark

2. Is the CSCS test hard?

The CTIB Health, Safety, and Environment test is regarded to be rather tough to get high score, and the pass rate is just more than 55%. However, as long as you study hard and take the necessary preparation steps, you won’t have trouble passing the CSCS test.

how hard is the cscs test

3. How to pass the CSCS test on the first go?

To succeed in the CSCS test, you are suggested to follow the following steps:

3.1. Plan your goal and learning schedule 

You first need to make clear your purpose for taking a CSCS test. Normally, CTIB Health, Safety, and Environment test is used as a standard requirement for CSCS card application. Therefore, it is essential for you to determine what type of CSCS card you’re looking for (CSCS blue card, CSCS red card, etc.), then you can acknowledge the type of CSCS test you need to take.

Once your goal is explicit, based on each individual’s learning style, you can find your own method to give the best result. While some prefer a tight schedule with deadlines, others have a tendency to flexibly adjust their learning time. This can be solved with the multiple user-friendly features on CSCS Test Online and mobile application where you can either practice at your own pace or ask for the learning schedule reminder function on the app. 

3.2. Search for CSCS materials

Apart from various CSCS revision books, you may look for pdf materials available on the Internet. On the other hand, DVDs can be another learning source you should invest in since these consist of verified questions and answers. 

search for cscs materials

3.3. Watch the setting out video

The setting out film explains several standard requirements and tips for responding to health and safety situations on-site. In other words, this video gives you what you should expect and notice on the construction sites and what the construction industry expects from you. It lasts for 11 minutes and it’s broken down into chunks. 

3.4. Revise for the test

Practicing for the test is a basic step that you need to pass through in order to confront the CSCS exam without any surprise. Besides the option of looking for soft materials, you can try our CSCS practice tests online both on our websites and mobile applications. 

Our website facilitates you with numerous questions and answers that can help you attempt to score high in the CSCS exam. 

4. How long does it take to prepare for the CSCS test?

It depends on the time you’re willing to spend learning and practicing for the test. If the exam date is coming close, you need to literally focus on practicing and doing lots of CSCS mock tests. This may take you about several weeks to review and prepare for the upcoming test.

In the case of learning for a longer period of time, you can practice one to three hours per day for the test, which can gradually consolidate your knowledge base and exam skills.

In general, many candidates find the CSCS test challenging, particularly if they are new to the construction industry or have limited knowledge of health and safety procedures. However, with proper preparation and a good understanding of the health and safety procedures in the construction industry, you can pass the CSCS test and get your CSCS card for better job opportunities.