Entrance Exam essentials

Y11 and below: three core areas plus reasoning

• English: mainly reading comprehension and grammar; some schools add vocabulary and a creative writing task to assess structure, tone and flair.
• Mathematics: set at the level appropriate to age within the UK curriculum, covering core concepts and applied problems. For school‑specific requirements, speak to an AA consultant.
• Reasoning: split into verbal and non‑verbal.
  • Verbal reasoning: extracting information, drawing inferences, reaching conclusions.
  • Non‑verbal reasoning: logic using shapes, sequences and patterns.
• Science (school‑dependent): a minority of schools test Science for Year 11 or below. Content follows the UK curriculum; AA consultants can share guidance and sample questions.

Special case for Year 9 applicants

Some leading schools require Year 9 applications 2–3 years in advance (not the usual one year), and the assessments differ accordingly.

• ISEB Common Pre‑Test (online)
  • Where: not at the school; you’ll sit it at an ISEB‑approved centre (AA is one).
  • Duration and sections: around 2.5 hours covering English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non‑Verbal Reasoning.
  • Scoring: total of 142; results go straight to schools—neither candidates nor centres receive them.
  • Target range: many schools look for 120–130+ (always check the school’s benchmark).
• How to prepare for the ISEB
  • Self‑study: official syllabus, online question banks and subscription platforms. AA consultants can recommend high‑quality free and paid options by level.
  • Academic Asia tutoring: bespoke, targeted support and mocks from highly experienced tutors who understand what schools value and how they assess.
• Sixth Form applications: additional subject papers
  • Core elements: English, Maths, Reasoning and an interview.
  • A level subject papers: typically 3–4 exams in your intended A level subjects, usually sat on campus. These test subject foundations and extended thinking.
  • Timeline tip: apply and start preparation at least a year ahead to align with testing windows and school schedules.

Interview focus and question types

Most interviews run about 20 minutes and are often online. Expect three broad categories:

General questions

• Typical prompts: interests and co‑curriculars; why this school/why the UK; strongest and weakest subjects; involvement in sport or music.
• For older applicants: A level choices and the thinking behind them; future goals and subject fit.

Academic/subject questions

• What to cover: your strongest or favourite subject; be ready to go beyond the basics—content you’ve explored, how you study, any extension reading.
• On‑the‑spot tasks: you may be given a quick maths problem or a short passage (subject‑dependent) to analyse and discuss.

Critical thinking

• The tie‑breaker: where schools differentiate between candidates with similar grades.
• What’s assessed: creativity, curiosity, grasp of current affairs and social issues. There isn’t one “right” answer; interviewers care about your reasoning, analysis and clarity.

Three common formats with examples:

• Abstract questions: Is it better to be kind or to be right? How would you describe a colour to someone who has never seen one? When, if ever, is it acceptable to lie?
• Situational questions: If you saw a close friend cheating, what would you do? You’re lost in a foreign city with no phone or money—how do you cope? You’ve one week to organise a year‑end party—what’s your plan?
• Current affairs/social issues: What’s your view on artificial intelligence? Thoughts on the Russia–Ukraine war? Which world leader do you admire most, and why?

Smart prep: how parents can help 

Routine prep: sound natural, not scripted

• Build bullet‑point answer frameworks and an “evidence bank” of examples; speak in your own words, clearly and calmly.
• Practise varied phrasings and follow‑up questions to stay flexible under pressure.

Self‑introduction: imrpess in 30 seconds

• Lead with a highlight (strength/standout experience) + keep it concrete (no CV recitals) + link to the school (ethos/academic fit).
• Use it as a ready‑to‑go opener or a neat pivot into your strengths.

Academic and career planning: direction = advantage

• Map short‑, medium‑ and long‑term goals; spell out subjects, activities and relevant experiences.
• Reflect and refine: why this path, how you’ll test it, what’s next.
• Still exploring? That’s fine—show a structured process and proactive mindset.

Pre‑interview research: earn extra credit with genuine interest

• Attend Summer School; book a campus visit or join an Open Day/Open Morning.
• Understand facilities, course structure, teaching style and alumni networks; compare across schools.
• Prepare high‑quality questions on curriculum depth, academic support, boarding and pastoral care.
• Refer to first‑hand observations in the interview—it’s persuasive and helps you connect.

Critical thinking training: give it 6–12 months

• Read international news and long‑form pieces to broaden perspective.
• Debate regularly with teachers or peers; practise arguing and rebutting.
• Use a simple structure: define the issue → analyse from multiple angles → state your view → address counters → propose actionable steps.
• Do mock interviews focused on clear reasoning, evidence and crisp language.
   

Rome wasn’t built in a day: build habits and poise will come

Academic Asia’s Helix Programme, a child enrichment programme led by Director of Education Giles Delaney, spans philosophy, ethics, psychology, worldviews, anthropology and history. It focuses on nurturing critical, creative and logical thinking so students shine on abstract, situational and current‑affairs questions. Most candidates start 6–12 months out prior to interview—polishing current‑affairs knowledge, practising thinking frameworks, drilling question types and running multiple mocks—so they stay cool, clear and in control on the day.

Want a bespoke exam‑and‑interview plan for your child? Book a FREE one‑to‑one consultation with Academic Asia now!