TestPulseHow long should a multiple-choice test take?
Suggested time limits for single-choice questions, worked out the same way as the calculator (15% buffer included, rounded up to 5 minutes). Time and a half and double time are based on the typical column.
| Questions | Quick recall | Typical (some reading) | Time and a half | Double time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 15 min | 20 min | 30 min | 40 min |
| 20 | 25 min | 35 min | 53 min | 70 min |
| 25 | 30 min | 45 min | 68 min | 90 min (1 h 30 min) |
| 40 | 50 min | 65 min | 98 min (1 h 38 min) | 130 min (2 h 10 min) |
| 50 | 60 min | 85 min | 128 min (2 h 8 min) | 170 min (2 h 50 min) |
| 100 | 115 min (1 h 55 min) | 165 min (2 h 45 min) | 248 min (4 h 8 min) | 330 min (5 h 30 min) |
Questions with calculations, long scenarios or written answers need more time: use the calculator above. Whatever the number, take the test yourself once before you publish it.
Time and a half and double time
Extra time for access arrangements is added to the normal limit: time and a half is the limit × 1.5, 25% extra is × 1.25 and double time is × 2. A 30-minute quiz with time and a half lasts 45 minutes; a 60-minute exam with double time lasts 120 minutes.
How the estimate works
We allow about 0.5 minutes per true/false question, 1 minute per single-choice question, 1.5 minutes per select-all question and 2 minutes per short answer, then scale for the style of question and add 15% for reading instructions and checking. Round up to a friendly number, and try the test yourself before publishing. See also how to create an online test.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a multiple-choice test take?
Allow about 1 minute per multiple-choice question for quick recall and about 1.5 minutes when questions need some reading, including time to read instructions and check. A 25-question test then takes about 30–45 minutes, and a 50-question test about 60–85 minutes.
How long should a 100-question multiple-choice test take?
About 115 minutes (1 h 55 min) for quick-recall questions and about 165 minutes (2 h 45 min) when questions need some reading. For a test that long, consider a break or two shorter parts.
How do I calculate time and a half for a test?
Multiply the normal time limit by 1.5. A 40-minute test becomes 60 minutes and a 90-minute exam becomes 135 minutes (2 hours 15 minutes). For double time, multiply by 2. The extra time option in the calculator does this for you.
How many minutes per mark?
Many written exams work out at roughly 1 to 1.5 minutes per mark. To find the pace of a paper, divide its minutes by its total marks: 90 minutes for 80 marks is about 1 minute 7 seconds per mark.
How long should an online test be?
For hiring screens, 10–20 minutes. For classroom quizzes, 15–30 minutes. For end-of-course exams, up to an hour. Longer tests are more reliable but more people drop out.
Should I add extra time?
Add a buffer of about 10–20% for reading instructions and checking answers, and give extra time, such as time and a half, to people who need adjustments.