Free tool

Exam time calculator

How long should your test be? Enter how many questions of each type, and get a fair time limit with a buffer for reading and checking.

Answering time–
Buffer (15%)–
Suggested limit–

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 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.

How much time per multiple-choice question?

About 1 minute per single-answer question and 1.5 minutes for select-all-that-apply, more if the question includes calculations or a long scenario.

Should I add extra time?

Add a buffer of about 10–20% for reading instructions and checking answers, and offer extra time to people who need adjustments.

Set the timer once. We enforce it fairly.

Examopotamia runs the clock on the server, so refreshing or switching devices never gives extra time.

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