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The ISEB Common Pre-Test explained

Independent29 September 2026 · 4 min read

Many independent schools use the ISEB Common Pre-Test as the first step of their entrance process.

What is it?

Who takes it and when?

Children usually sit it in Year 6 for entry in Year 7. Some schools use it earlier for 13+ entry. For this cycle, testing runs from 1 September 2026 to late May 2027. The school you apply to tells you when to book.

Where?

At an approved centre: often your child's current prep school, or a centre such as the British Council.

Only once

Your child sits it once a year. The results are shared with every senior school you have applied to that uses it.

How to prepare

Source: ISEB, Common Pre-Tests (information for families).

Want help preparing your child?

Live classes on Zoom from Year 4.

Send an enquirySee class timings

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