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Demystifying the 11+

The 11+ Common Pre-Test refers to the set of online, multiple-choice tests set for the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB). They are taken when a pupil is in Year 6 or 7, at a computer, and are adaptive, getting harder as students show that they have mastered a topic. This two-and-a-half hour exam includes Maths, English Non-Verbal and Verbal reasoning, and is for entrance into independent schools such as St Edward’s School and Radley College.

For more information see the ISEB website here.

The 11+ Entrance Test is different for each school, so it is best to visit their individual websites to check for specific entrance requirements. Usually, they will include Maths, English, Non-Verbal and Verbal reasoning. Having sat the test, successful candidates are then invited for an interview. This is the case for schools such as St Helen and St Katharine School, Magdalen College School and Oxford High School.

Oxford Tutors is running an 11+ and ISEB Common Pre-Test Preparation Course in north Oxford during October half term. We have highly experienced teachers who are well-versed in preparing children for these exams, who can assess your child and give them individual guidance on how to improve their performance through practice and gain confidence.

If you would like more information please click here or call +44 (0)1223 298720. We would be happy to help!

— Laura Nall, 11+ Specialist, laura@oxfordtutors.com

A few 11+ taster questions to whet your appetite:

Verbal reasoning

Give TWO words of FIVE or more letters that can be made out of the letters in the word SUBJUNCTIVE. You can use a letter as often as it appears in the word and may use the letters in any order (e.g. CUBES).

Maths

Here are some patterns made from tiles:

  • How many grey tiles are there in the 8th pattern?

  • There is a pattern number with 40 white tiles. Which pattern number is it?

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