Understanding the Differences Between ISEB Common Entrance Exams and ISEB Common Pre-Tests

The Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB) offers two different types of assessments: the Common Entrance (CE) exams and the ISEB Common Pre-Tests. Here's a comparison to help you understand the differences between them:

ISEB Common Entrance (CE) Exams

Purpose:

The CE exams are used for entry into independent senior schools at ages 11+ and 13+.

Timing:

CE exams are typically taken in the final year of prep school, either at the end of Year 6 for 11+ or Year 8 for 13+ entry.

Subjects:

At 11+, subjects typically include English, Mathematics, and Science.

At 13+, the range of subjects is broader and can include English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Religious Studies, French, and more.

Format:

The exams are paper-based and consist of a variety of question types, including multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay questions.

Assessment:

The CE exams are marked by the senior schools to which the student is applying. The results are used as part of the admission process.

Level:

The CE exams are curriculum-based and are designed to test knowledge and skills that students have acquired during their prep school education.

ISEB Common Pre-Tests

Purpose:

The ISEB Pre-Tests are used as an initial screening tool for entry into independent senior schools, usually taken in Year 6 or Year 7.

Timing:

The Pre-Tests are typically taken a year or two before the final CE exams, often in Year 6 or the beginning of Year 7.

Subjects:

The Pre-Tests cover Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Mathematics, and English.

Format:

The Pre-Tests are computer-based, adaptive tests that adjust the difficulty of questions based on the student’s responses.

Assessment:

The Pre-Tests are standardised tests marked by ISEB. The results provide schools with an indication of a student's potential and ability, and they are used to make decisions about admissions and scholarships.

Level:

The Pre-Tests are designed to assess reasoning and aptitude rather than curriculum knowledge. They focus on general cognitive abilities and skills that are important for future learning.

Key Differences

• Purpose: CE exams are final entrance exams, while Pre-Tests are preliminary assessments.

• Timing: CE exams are taken later (end of Year 6 or Year 8), whereas Pre-Tests are taken earlier (Year 6 or early Year 7).

• Format: CE exams are paper-based and curriculum-focused, while Pre-Tests are computer-based and adaptive.

• Subjects: CE exams cover a broader range of subjects, especially at 13+, while Pre-Tests focus on reasoning and core subjects.

• Assessment: CE exams are marked by senior schools, while Pre-Tests are standardised and marked by ISEB.

Understanding these differences can help students and parents prepare appropriately for each type of assessment.