Understanding the ISEB Pre-Test: A Simple Guide

The ISEB (Independent Schools Examinations Board) Pre-Test is an important assessment for students in the UK, typically taken in the Autumn Term of Year 6 and occasionally in Year 7. Designed to measure a student's potential and aptitude, it helps in the admissions process for many independent senior schools who use the results to decide which students to invite back for follow-up interviews and assessments (for a comprehensive list of schools who use the ISEB Pre-Test, please click here). In this article, we’ll break down the basics of the ISEB Pre-Test to help parents and students understand what it entails.

‍

What is the ISEB Pre-Test?

‍

The ISEB Pre-Test is an online, adaptive test that evaluates a student's abilities in English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. The standard test time is 2 hours and 15 minutes.

The Maths and English sections test students on their knowledge of topics taught in the Key Stage 2 national curriculum up to the end of Year 5. Students will be assessed on their ability to recall what they have learned and their ability to apply their knowledge to solve problems.

The test can be taken all in one go, but the majority of students will take the test over a number of days in order to reduce strain.

‍

Structure of the Test:

‍

The ISEB Pre-Test consists of four main sections:

‍Maths: Understanding of numerical concepts, including arithmetic, geometry and data handling. (40 minutes)

‍English: Comprehension, vocabulary, spelling and punctuation. There are two different scores awarded for the English section of the examination: comprehension and SPaG. (40 minutes)

‍Non-Verbal Reasoning: Analysing and solving problems using visual information, such as patterns and sequences. (30 minutes)

‍Verbal Reasoning: Reasoning using words, testing skills such as vocabulary, logic and pattern recognition. (25 minutes)

‍

The ISEB Pre-test can be challenging for students as it is the first time they will be faced with such gruelling testing. Many students choose to receive tutoring in all areas to ensure they have the best chance at succeeding. Remember, the ISEB can only be taken once per year, so it is important to be as prepared as possible!

‍

‍

Schools using the ISEB Common Pre-Test in 2023-2024

‍

Tutoring provides the following advantages:

Tailored lessons: Teaching methods are tailored to suit an individual student’s weaknesses and strengths, and their pace of learning. Any areas the student finds difficult can be addressed, and stronger areas reinforced with extra practice.

Practising the test format: It is especially important for students who have never undertaken such standardised testing before to practise. This will help to ensure they understand the format and the timing.

Study techniques: Tutors help to create independent revision plans which work alongside the lessons to help each student effectively manage their time.

Boosting confidence: Examinations can be particularly daunting, especially at such a young age. Regular sessions and constructive feedback help lead to a more positive experience during testing.

Access to resources: Tutors have access to a wide range of practice materials and resources that can aid in preparation.

‍