The full test takes approximately 3 hours:
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Mechanical Comprehension is timed at 25 minutes
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All other sections are untimed
Assess your Strengths. Discover your Direction.
The Differential Aptitude Test (DAT) is a comprehensive online assessment designed to measure your abilities in key cognitive and mechanical skill areas. It is commonly used for program admission requirements and by individuals seeking to explore career options or academic readiness.
What is the Differential Aptitude Test (DAT)?
The Differential Aptitude Test (DAT) is a standardized assessment used to measure your ability to learn and succeed in various academic or technical settings. Unlike knowledge-based exams, the DAT evaluates your natural strengths and problem-solving abilities across multiple skill areas like reasoning, mechanical understanding, and spatial awareness.
At Keyano College, the DAT is typically used for admission to select programs and may also be helpful for adults exploring new career pathways.
What You’ll Learn
The DAT evaluates your strengths across six core skill areas:
- Mechanical Comprehension
- Abstract Reasoning
- Numerical Calculations
- Numerical Sequencing
- Space Relations
- Verbal Analogies
Where It Can Take You
Your results can help determine your suitability for various academic programs, career paths, or technical training. Recognized by many colleges and some industry employers, the DAT is a valuable tool for personal and professional development.
Admission Requirements
There are no academic prerequisites to write the DAT. However, you should only register if your intended program requires the test.
How to Register
You can register by:
- Phone: Call the Office of the Registrar at 780-791-4801
- In Person: Visit the Registrar’s Office at
8115 Franklin Avenue, Fort McMurray
After registering, you’ll receive a payment confirmation number, which is required to book your test online.
Out-of-Town Registration
If you're outside the Fort McMurray area:
- Contact Keyano to pay your DAT registration fee
- Arrange a college or university testing centre to supervise your exam
Note: Supervisors cannot be friends, relatives, or coworkers
- Complete and submit the Out-of-Town DAT Exam Form with your supervisor’s information
- Keyano will send instructions directly to your supervisor
- Write your exam during office hours (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
You are responsible for any additional fees charged by the off-site testing location.
Test Schedule
DAT sessions run Monday to Friday
Two daily time slots: 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Keyano College is closed on statutory holidays
Booking is required at least 3 business days in advance
Use the online booking system to reserve your exam time.
Need help? Contact: registrar@keyano.ca
DAT results are emailed to you within two business days after completing the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Only students applying to programs that list the DAT as a required prerequisite.
Can I take the DAT if I live outside Fort McMurray?
Yes. You can complete the DAT remotely. See Out-of-Town Registration below for details.
How to Apply
Although this program is not currently accepting applications for the 2024–2025 academic year, you can:
Email Human.Services@keyano.ca to express interest in future intakes
Prepare documentation in advance for future admission cycles