Independent school entry

The ISEB Common Pre-Test, explained

Adaptive, computer-based, 2½ hours total. Used by 80+ UK independent schools as a first-stage sift. Score once, apply to many.

Format

Verbal Reasoning

~36 questions · 36 minutes · adaptive

Non-Verbal Reasoning

~32 questions · 32 minutes · adaptive

Maths

~50 questions · 50 minutes · adaptive

English

~25 questions · 25 minutes · adaptive

Questions get harder or easier based on how your child is performing — so they rarely see the same test twice. The final score reflects the difficulty level reached, not just raw correctness.

Schools using the ISEB Pretest

A sample of the ~80 schools using the ISEB Pretest for 11+ or 13+ entry.

St Paul's SchoolWestminster SchoolEton CollegeHarrow SchoolDulwich CollegeKing's College SchoolHighgate SchoolCity of London SchoolLatymer Upper SchoolMerchant Taylors' School

How to prepare

  • Get used to the screen.It's computer-based — practise with a mouse, not paper. Reading comprehension on screen is materially different.
  • Build speed, not perfection. Adaptive tests reward steady pace. If your child gets stuck, the test notices and adjusts; if they guess wildly, it also notices.
  • Vocabulary is the biggest differentiator in English. Daily reading of varied genres over 12+ months is hard to shortcut.
  • Non-verbal reasoning is highly trainable. 3–4 hours of focused practice over a few weeks can shift scores measurably.

FAQ

What is the ISEB Pretest?

The ISEB Common Pre-Test is a computer-based adaptive assessment used by 80+ UK independent schools as a first-stage filter for 11+, 13+ and senior school entry. Results are shared directly with the schools a child has applied to.

Which schools use it?

Most leading London day schools and many boarding schools. Examples: St Paul's, Westminster, Eton, Harrow, Dulwich, Highgate, King's Wimbledon, Merchant Taylors', City of London.

When is it taken?

For 13+ entry, usually in Year 6 (autumn or spring). For 11+ entry, in Year 5 summer term. Each child can sit the test once per school year.

How is it scored?

Raw scores in each section, then age-standardised. Schools see percentile rankings rather than raw numbers. Typical shortlisting cut-offs for top schools are around the 70th–90th percentile.

Prep for ISEB Pretest with Elandi

Adaptive practice that mirrors the ISEB format. Timing under pressure, varied difficulty, instant review.

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