13 Plus and Common Entrance exam papers

What is the 13 Plus?

The 13 plus is a selective entrance examination process for children in year 8 who are applying for independent schools in the UK. The exams are designed to test a range of skills within three main subjects: verbal reasoning, maths and English. Sometimes, non-verbal reasoning and science will also be included. The format, length and style of these exams vary from school to school so it is important to practice and take as much advice as possible before beginning the process.

What is the 13 Plus exam process for my child?

Depending on school for which you are applying, the selection process will vary with some schools doing a one stage exam format and some doing a two stage format.

The first stage of the 13 plus is either a pretest (which is done on a computer) or a paper-based test. If the first stage is a computer pre-test, it will be either an ISEB (Independent Schools Examination Board), CAT4 test, CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) or UKISET (for overseas candidates) examination. These tests are normally sat in October and November. However, this can change, so it is best to check with the schools you are applying to when their assessments are. It is important to practice the correct format. 

Similarly to the first stage, the second stage can take on different forms depending on the school you are applying. Some second stages include a written Maths and English paper, as well as an interview; others do a ‘creative day’ where children will be asked to work as part of a group to problem solve, create or design something. 

It is important to check with the school how they structure the assessment so you can fully prepare. If we can help, please ask!

What else do schools consider when deciding whether to award my child a place?

In addition to the stage one and two assessment, all schools will ask for a recommendation and report from the Headteacher of your child’s current school. It is also common for your child’s highest CAT test score to be sent to the school. The CAT (Cognitive Ability) test is a four part assessment which tests Verbal, Non-Verbal, Quantitative and Spatial Reasoning. The highest score a student can achieve is 141. Top academic schools expect around 130.

What is the pass rate for 13 Plus entry?

The pass rate differs across the UK. Both in London and within commuting distance of London, the top rated senior schools often have many more applicants than places at 13 Plus, so competition is fierce and the pass mark is high. However, it is important to note that his is not the case for all the schools. Owl Tutors can help you to decide on the right school for your child, taking into account pass rates, sibling policies and catchment areas. 

How can 13 Plus practice papers help?

No matter how prepared or under prepared you feel, practice papers are an important part of preparation. Not only do they help familiarise your child with the questions they will be tested on in the real assessments, they also give you a good idea of whether you child can complete the tasks in the given time. Do not underestimate the pressure children feel when they are being timed – and the best way to overcome this is to practise!

Owl Tutors’ 13 Plus practice papers give you a comprehensive assessment of the topics covered in the various exams. It is best to start 13 Plus practice as a timed exercise from the beginning – children of this age have usually sat exams before and know what to expect. 

Good luck, and please let us know if we can help with:

• Choosing the right school for your child
• Tailored 13 Plus exam preparation
• Advice and support around the application process, including the interview
• Help for overseas parents navigating the world of the UK independent school system