Frequently Asked Questions

I completed the assessment. How do I get my results?

You should be able to obtain your results immediately after completing the assessment. Go to Gallup Access and log in using the user name and password you set up when you created your account. Once you are logged in your results should appear automatically on the home screen. You can download further reports by clicking on "CliftonStrengths", then "Reports". 

Which report should I read first?

Start with your CliftonStrengths Top 5 Report. This report will provide you with your unique descriptions of each of your themes, based on all 177 questions and your unique combination of all 34 themes. No one else has a Top 5 Report like yours!

After you are more familiar with these descriptions and how your themes apply in your life, move on to the CliftonStrengths for Students Report. This report provides student-specific insights and tips for applying your strengths towards academic success.

How likely is it to have the same top 5 CliftonStrengths as someone else?

The chances of having the exact same top 5 CliftonStrengths in the exact order as someone else is 1 in 33.39 million. The chances of having the same top 5 CliftonStrengths as someone else, but in a different order, is approximately 1 in 340,000.

Should I pursue a specific major, degree, or career based on my strengths?

Your top 5 CliftonStrengths will not indicate specific majors or career paths for you to pursue. For example, having the theme of “Analytical” does not mean that you should pursue a major in math or computer science. The best way to use the assessment to inform your choice of major and/or career is to determine ways to apply your strengths to your chosen major and/or career. Skills and knowledge gained through a specific major and/or career will also provide opportunities to transform your talents into strengths.

Will I be labeled, stereotyped, or “put in a box” based on my results?

No. The CliftonStrengths assessment is a tool to help you in your self-discovery. Your top 5 CliftonStrengths are intended to help raise your awareness about where you naturally excel or have the potential to excel. The intent behind this strengths-based approach is to help you learn and understand how to apply your specific talents to the choices you make in your academic, career and personal life.

Can I retake the assessment?

It is highly discouraged to take the assessment more than once in a 5-year period. At Western, we do not recommend retaking the assessment during your time here as a student. Taking CliftonStrengths more than once may decrease the accuracy of your results.

How does the assessment compare to other assessment tools?

You can find information about how the CliftonStrengths assessment compares to other assessment tools at the following links: