# The ISEB Pre-Test.

Source: https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/guides/admissions/iseb-pre-test

The ISEB Pre-Test is a set of online tests in English, maths and verbal and non-verbal reasoning that some UK senior schools use early in their admissions process, usually for 13+ entry. This guide explains what it involves and when a student in Singapore would take it.

## Four areas.

| Area | What it measures |
|---|---|
| English | Reading comprehension |
| Mathematics | Number and problem solving |
| Verbal reasoning | Thinking with words |
| Non-verbal reasoning | Thinking with shapes and patterns |

The tests are online and adaptive: questions adjust to the student's answers. Check the [ISEB](https://www.iseb.co.uk/) for current details.

## Earlier than families expect.

Schools that use the Pre-Test usually ask for it in UK Year 6 or Year 7, around two years before 13+ entry (to be confirmed). Each school sets its own window, and results are shared with the schools a family has registered with.

In Singapore terms, this is often around Primary 5 or Primary 6, depending on your child's date of birth — see the [application timeline](https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/guides/admissions/application-timeline).

## Taking it overseas.

How students outside the UK sit the Pre-Test: (to be confirmed).

## How to prepare.

1. **Reading and vocabulary**: Wide reading in English helps both the English and verbal reasoning sections.
2. **UK maths topics**: Check the maths expected in the UK year group, which may differ from your child's current school.
3. **Reasoning practice**: Familiar question types, then timed practice.

## About the Pre-Test.

**Is the Pre-Test the same as Common Entrance?**

No. The Pre-Test comes earlier and is a set of online tests. Common Entrance at 13+ is a separate set of exams; some schools use their own exams instead.

**Can my child retake it?**

(to be confirmed)

- [ISEB — Independent Schools Examinations Board](https://www.iseb.co.uk/)

## Related

- [ISEB Pre-Test course](https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/courses/iseb-pre-test)
- [11+ and 13+](https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/courses/11-plus-13-plus)
- [What is UKiset?](https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/guides/admissions/ukiset)

## Plan your preparation.

Tell us your child's date of birth, school and the schools you are considering.

- [Book a consultation](https://www.eltschool.org/sg/en/trial)

Updated: 2026-10-28

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