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The Complete ISEB Pre-Tests Preparation Hub
Everything a family needs to understand and prepare for the ISEB Common Pre-Tests — the adaptive format, all four sections in depth, SAS scoring, access arrangements and a calm preparation plan. Independently researched from ISEB's own published materials and school admissions pages.
4
adaptive sections in one sitting2h 15
total testing time100
the average SAS score1
sitting per academic yearWhat are the ISEB Common Pre-Tests?
The Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB, established 1903) runs the Common Pre-Tests: four online, adaptive, multiple-choice assessments taken in Year 6 or Year 7 for entry into Year 7 (11+) or deferred entry into Year 9 (13+) at many of the UK's leading independent senior schools. First introduced in 2010, the tests were rebuilt with CENTURY Tech and relaunched in September 2022 — a single sitting, once per academic year, shared with every school the child applies to.
Adaptive and on-screen
Four online, multiple-choice sections where each question is chosen to match the child’s ability. No paper version exists.
One sitting, every school
Parents register once for a free Applicant ID; a single sitting is shared with every senior school the child applies to.
Once per academic year
The Pre-Tests can only be sat once by a pupil in any academic year — which is what makes the single sitting feel high-stakes.
Rebuilt with CENTURY in 2022
Since September 2022 the tests are built and delivered with CENTURY Tech. They no longer behave like the old GL-run papers.
No skipping, no going back
There is no skip or back button; every answer is final. The format rewards calm, steady accuracy over rushing.
Scores go to schools, not parents
Results are Standardised Age Scores (mean 100) with stanines and percentiles — and it is widely reported that only schools see them.
Explore the Hub
Rehearse the Pre-Test Experience Calmly
Forward-only, difficulty-ramping ISEB-style mocks with a free walkthrough — unlimited sittings in every plan, with a 7-day free trial.