For many families applying to UK independent schools, the ISEB Common Pre-Test is one of the first academic hurdles in the admissions test process. Yet, many parents are unsure how the test is scored, what constitutes a good score, or if there is even a set pass mark. In this article, we break down the key information you need to know about ISEB Pre-Test scores and how they are used by senior schools.
How is the ISEB Pre-Test Scored?
In recent years, many independent senior schools have incorporated ‘Pre-tests’ as an initial entry assessment for Year 7 and 9 entry. Pre-tests commonly form the first stage of the admissions process, and schools use them to identify the students who are most suitable to proceed to the next stage.
Pre-tests can be administered in written form or on a computer, with the ISEB Common Pre-Test, CEM Test and the CAT4 being the most widely used.
The ISEB Common Pre-Test is a computerised, adaptive assessment used by a range of leading UK independent schools to assess children before the 13+ entrance exams and at a handful of schools as a pre-test to 11+ entry.
The test includes four components: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Here’s how the scoring works:
- On completion of the ISEB Pre-Test all candidates receive a Standardised Age Score (SAS) which is based on the number of questions answered correctly.
- This score is age-adjusted to ensure fair comparison across pupils of different ages. For example a child born in the summer will not be disadvantaged compared to an older child born at the start of the school year.
- The SAS is calculated based on the number of correct answers, taking into account the difficulty of questions.
- Schools can also view the time taken for each section, offering insight into a child’s working pace.
- Due to it’s adaptive nature, questions adjust in difficulty based on the student’s performance; the questions will get harder if the student continually answers correctly, and easier if they do not. This helps pinpoint their ability in each subject.
- The average SAS score among independent school candidates is typically 100 and most pupils (about two-thirds) score between 85 and 115. Around 16% of pupils score above 115, and fewer than 5% achieve a score higher than 130. This scale is based on the performance of a large group of pupils and helps schools compare candidates fairly.
It’s important to note that parents cannot access their child’s ISEB Pre-Test scores. Only the senior schools to which the results are submitted can view them. Even Prep Schools are not given access to their pupils’ results.
Is There a Pass Mark for the ISEB Pre-Test?
Many parents ask: “What’s the ISEB Pre-Test pass mark?” The answer is—it depends.
There is no official pass mark set by the ISEB. Instead:
- Each independent senior school interprets the results independently.
- This means different schools may look for different SAS benchmarks across subjects.
- Highly selective schools are likely to expect higher average scores, particularly in key areas such as English and Maths.
So while there's no universal pass score, it’s crucial to understand the academic expectations of your target schools.
What is a Good ISEB Pre-Test Score?
A “good” ISEB Pre-Test score will vary depending on the school. As a general guide:
- A score around the average (SAS 100) may be acceptable for a broad range of schools.
- For academically selective schools, an average SAS of 120 or above across sections is often expected.
- The more competitive the school, the higher the required standard is likely to be.
As with other standardised tests like the CAT4 or UKiset, understanding the school-specific admissions criteria is key.
ISEB Pre-Test Tuition with Keystone Tutors
Each year, Keystone Tutors supports hundreds of students preparing for the ISEB Pre-Test. Our tutors offer:
- Targeted support in English and Maths
- Guidance on Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Computerised test practice and feedback
Our ISEB Pre-Test tutors are available in person in London and we also offer online tuition worldwide.
To find out more or to request a tutor, please contact one of our Client Managers or complete our request a tutor form.