HPAT–Ireland has been designed to assess logical reasoning and problem solving skills as well as non-verbal reasoning and the ability to understand the thoughts, behaviour and/or intentions of people. The test has a strong focus on general skills and personal abilities that have been identified as important for a competent health professional. HPAT–Ireland is designed to complement academic achievement; it does not test academic knowledge and it does not require special understanding of any academic discipline.

The HPAT–Ireland test is offered once annually in February each year.