Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) Assessment Tests & Recruitment Process Online Preparation – 2025

What Is SBB?

The national railway of Switzerland, Swiss Federal Railways is headquartered in Bern. Usually known by its initials SBB CFF FFS, or simply as SBB. It is recognized in Europe as one of the most reliable railways on the continent. SBB transports both freight and passengers on its 100% electrified rail system, moving 180,000 tons of freight and 1,160,000 people daily.

There are almost 35,000 employees keeping SBB moving. In addition to train crew, management, and specialist positions, there are graduate programs, internships, and apprenticeships available for those just starting careers.

What Is SBB’s Hiring Process?

The hiring process starts out the same way for every position. Search the open positions on the website until you find one that suits your skills and experience. The SBB website has tips for building and improving your resume. Take a look to make sure yours is formatted in the preferred manner. Make sure you do not miss the deadline for any jobs that interest you. Do not try to submit an application through email. Generally, only applications submitted through the website will be accepted.

The next step is to complete a pre-recorded virtual interview or attend a virtual meeting. The type of virtual interview you will be given depends on the position you have applied for. Train crew applicants will be sent a link to a pre-recorded interview. Specialist and managerial position candidates will be asked to participate in a virtual meeting. The train crew will be required to complete a health assessment to make sure they are in the proper condition to handle the demands of the job.

After the virtual interviews are completed, some candidates will be sent a link to take online assessments. The tests you are given are based on the job you are in the running for.

If you are on the right track, you will be invited to attend an in-person meeting. This will include your manager and members of the team. This is your chance to get to know who you will be working with and decide if you feel a good fit.

Managerial candidates will be asked to attend an assessment day. The assessment day consists of team and individual exercises, and job simulations.

Swiss Federal Railways’ Aptitude & Personality Tests

There are a few psychometric tests that are common in the railway industry. These are a few of the tests you are most likely to encounter if your desired position requires an online assessment. The SBB assessment will only take an hour to complete.

• Verbal Reasoning Aptitude Test – If there are language requirements for your desired position, they will be included in the job posting. German, French, and English are the languages you are most likely to need to show proficiency in. If strong language skills are required, be prepared to complete a language test. You will need to demonstrate a set level of fluency to successfully pass the test.
• SJT Test – The Situational Judgment Test is a multiple-choice assessment that evaluates your decision-making abilities. The test is made up of various work-related scenarios. There are multiple solutions, and you need to select the option that will be most effective.
• Numerical Aptitude Test – If you need to demonstrate proficiency with numbers, you may be given this test. It is a multiple-choice test that uses word problems to test your ability to solve various mathematical problems.
• Inductive Reasoning Assessment – This tests your ability to recognize patterns and find the missing piece. You will be presented with shapes that change based on a sequence. You need to determine what the sequence is and select the correct answer.

How to Prepare for SBB’s Assessment Tests?

Each job posting lists the steps in the hiring process, so you will know in advance if you have any assessments to take. If the position highlights language abilities. Make sure you practice speaking and writing the languages in which you need to demonstrate a strong ability. Watching shows in these languages and reading articles in them will help maintain your fluency. Numerical reasoning can be improved by practicing word problems, and by using flashcards to improve the speed at which you can solve problems. Finally, abstract reasoning can be improved using puzzle games and apps designed to improve your cognitive function.  The tests are only a small part of the hiring process, but they can make or break your chances of success.