Yes, this happens very frequently because the occupational database and range of sections covered by tests vary widely. But there is no need to worry. In my view, you should consider all the options when you are debating it out with Parents & your Counselor. The one thing you should cross-check in the two reports is the list of observations about your motivators, aptitude, interests and personality type. In case there are some contradictions in that do bring it up in your discussion with your Counselor.

Another factor that leads to a variation in suggested career is the segments covered in the test. For example, during the Ideal Career Test you would have gone through Self-identification, Work Situations, Completing Sequences, Finding Codes, Solving Logical Scenarios, Evaluating Factors you Value in Life and Situational Exploration.  The other test might have had additional sections and that is completely acceptable. Since these tests have to subtly assess human elements, they cannot follow a rigid structure.

As you would have observed, these segments are a combination of closed ended and open ended prompts that force you to make tough choices. The open-ended prompts are especially tricky because you might not have experienced some situations and you are merely speculating.

To summarize, you can understand it in this simple way – think of these two tests as different people you met while traveling during two separate vacations. Now, try to write down how each of them would have made an impression of you based on the discussions you had with them. As you will realize, those two impressions might be very contrasting since your personality has many facets. Still, each of those impressions, although distinct, is true about you!

For further queries and related information, you can approach the Professional Experts at CareerGuide. Hope this will help you!