The first truly global standardized test for General Service staff selection was launched at UNHQ on 15 July 2014. The Global General Service Test (GGST) replaces the Administrative Support Assessment Test (ASAT) and will be progressively rolled out in all Offices Away from Headquarters (OAHs) from September 2014.
Why was the new test developed?
In 2010, the Staff Management Coordination Committee (SMCC) requested the harmonisation of the selection test used for General Service (GS) staff across the Secretariat. Consequently, after an extensive period of research and development, the Global General Services Test was built by a team of assessment specialists who extensively analysed a broad cross-section of GS positions.
What does the new GGST look like?
The new GGST is a supervised computer-based test consisting of three sections, Numerical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Situational Judgement, which simulate authentic workplace tasks and situations.
The first two sections assess the GS candidates’ verbal and numerical reasoning skills. For example, candidates will respond to typical work-related emails, memos, data tables, maps, calendars, and graphs as simulated requests from managers and between colleagues.
The third section assesses candidates’ understanding of appropriate workplace behaviour through situational judgment tasks. The questions present candidates with typical workplace situations and ask them to identity an appropriate course of action.
A GGST pilot participant said, “The new test is completely different from the ASAT. I can confirm that the content is much better, the exercises well chosen, and the topics relate to UN daily work.”
In what languages will the GGST be available?
The GGST is currently available in English, French and Spanish. As needed, it will also potentially be translated into other official UN languages.
Who will take the GGST?
All short-listed candidates for GS positions, from levels 1 to 7 for all job openings, including temporary, will receive individual invitations to take the GGST. There are, however, exceptions as to who is required to take the test:
- currently serving GS staff who passed the old ASAT;
- GS staff who separated from the Organization and had passed the old ASAT as long as the break is less than 24 months at the time of application;
- candidates who are on the old ASAT roster (for UNHQ this roster will be retired on 14 July 2015); and
- specialized GS functions (e.g. Security, Trades and Crafts, Nurses, etc.) who will remain exempt from the GGST but undertake existing job-appropriate tests.
Candidates who pass the test will be placed on the GGST roster. GGST rostered candidates who do not secure a GS position will remain on the roster for 24 months.
Where does it fit in the assessment process for recruitment?
Candidates who have applied to Job Openings and have been successfully screened and short-listed will be invited to sit for the GGST (If applicable).
Can I “study” for the GGST?
As the GGST is a general skills test, there is no need to prepare in advance. For the Numerical Reasoning section, candidates can brush up on their basic arithmetic skills (e.g. calculating percentages) and, for the Verbal Reasoning section they can practise reading in the language in which they will take the test. For the Situational Judgment section, candidates can familiarize themselves with the UN’s Core Values and Competencies.
Before the test, candidates will have the opportunity to attempt a number of sample questions, which provide automatic feedback and are not scored. This will give candidates an indication of what to expect in the evaluated portion of the test.
Need more information?
For more information on the GGST, please send your questions to ggst@un.org