The final step of the Membership and Application Process is taking the Research Readiness
Aptitude Test (RRAT), upon whose successful completion the candidate becomes a Konnifel member.
The RRAT is divided into two primary sections:
Part 1
Assessment of Subject Matter Knowledge and Skills (Duration: 1 to 1.5
hours)
Part 2
HireVue Online Interview (Duration: 10–15 minutes)
The Research Readiness Aptitude Test (RRAT) is used as a metric for aspiring
researchers applying for research internships, assistantships, fellowships, and other research
positions through Konnifel. RRAT is mandatory for candidates applying for research internships under
professors, researchers, and scientists via Konnifel. Its purpose is to evaluate a candidate’s
readiness and aptitude for research, providing professors, researchers, and scientists with a
standardized data point to assess applicants.
- 01 Subject
Knowledge Evaluation
- Measures a candidate’s understanding acquired through their academic
coursework.
Designed for candidates at the Bachelor’s or Master’s level.
- 02 Fundamental
Skill Assessment
- This section tests the candidates on the basic research skills they gained
during their academic coursework.
- 03 Specific Skill
Proficiency Assessment
- Allows candidates to select stream-specific skills to demonstrate
proficiency.
Bachelor’s students: A candidate can choose 2 skills, which can also be
cross-disciplinary in nature.
Master’s students: A candidate can choose 4 skills, which can also be
cross-disciplinary in nature.
Please note this section is not applicable to candidates registered under
the Humanities streams.
- This is a 15-minute HireVue interview featuring six questions with a time
limit of 2 minutes and 30 seconds for each question.
- Candidates will also be assessed using the Sincerity Matrix during this
stage, a comprehensive framework developed by Konnifel. Assessing candidates
on various facets which make an effective and successful researcher,
particularly in ethics, teamwork, motivation, leadership, and personal
development.
- Kindly note that the interview needs to be completed within 10 days of
finishing Part 1.
Please fill in the below fields to get the syllabus of your desired subject
The RRAT is not only a test of knowledge, but an opportunity to demonstrate readiness and eagerness
for conducting research. Candidates should approach each section with confidence and a positive
mindset. This preparation guide is designed to help candidates successfully navigate the RRAT and
demonstrate their potential.
Preparation Tips for Part 1: Assessment of Subject Matter Knowledge and Skills
- Candidates should revise key concepts and core topics based on current or completed academic
coursework.
- Candidates should carefully choose skills that match their knowledge and interests for the
Specific Skill Proficiency Test.
- Candidates should allocate a specific amount of time for each question, so as to avoid getting
stuck on one question, and keeping adequate time for reviewing the answers.
- Candidates should refrain from attempting to switch between browser tabs during the examination,
as it may result in the termination of the assessment since the test has anti-cheating
mechanisms in place.
Preparation Tips for Part 2: HireVue Online Interview Round
- Candidates should take their time to understand each question, and stay calm and composed,
speaking clearly while maintaining proper body language.
- Candidates should ideally present crisp, precise answers, to showcase their ability to think
clearly. One should shed light on their passion for research, work ethics and eagerness to
learn. Candidates should answer honestly and thoughtfully, focusing on their genuine
interest in research.
General Guidelines
- Candidates must ensure a stable internet connection for RRAT.
- Candidates should pre-test their webcam, microphone, and system settings before the actual
session.
- Candidates should choose a quiet and well-lit room, which is free from distractions. One
should familiarize themselves with the platform by taking the practice test or using the
‘Practice Interview’ feature.
- Keep a notebook ready to solve the questions, in case of applied subjects.
- Maintain the sanctity of the examination by following all rules and regulations in place.
