What is Common Entrance?

Common Entrance (sometimes called CE) is a set of standardised examinations used by many independent schools in the United Kingdom to assess and select pupils for entry at the ages of 11+ (Year 7) and 13+ (Year 9). Administered by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (the ISEB), these exams are designed to test pupils’ knowledge, understanding, and skills across a broad range of subjects, ensuring they are prepared for the academic challenges of their chosen senior school.

 

Purpose of Common Entrance

The primary aim of the Common Entrance exams is to provide a consistent and reliable assessment framework for independent schools. These exams allow schools to evaluate applicants on a level playing field, ensuring that pupils admitted are well-suited to their chosen school’s academic standards and ethos. Nowadays, Common Entrance is used as part of a wider admissions process, often combined with interviews, references from current schools, and additional assessments such as pre-tests or school-specific exams taken in Year 6.

 

Key Stages of Common Entrance

 

11+ Common Entrance

11+ Common Entrance exams are taken by pupils in Year 6, typically for entry into senior schools in Year 7. These exams assess core subjects:

• English – focusing on comprehension, creative writing, and grammar.

• Mathematics – covering key arithmetic, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.

• Science – testing foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, and physics.

These 11+ exams are tailored to ensure a smooth transition from primary or prep school to the senior school environment, with a focus on fundamental skills.

13+ Common Entrance

13+ Common Entrance exams are taken in Year 8, typically for entry into senior schools in Year 9. These are more rigorous and encompass a wider range of subjects, including:

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

• History

• Geography

• Religious Studies (TPR)

• Classical Civilisation

• Languages (e.g., French, Spanish, Latin or Greek)

The 13+ exams challenge pupils to demonstrate analytical thinking, problem-solving and detailed subject knowledge. This level of assessment ensures pupils are ready to meet the demands of senior school curricula.

 

Format of the Exams

Common Entrance exams are structured to encourage pupils to apply their knowledge creatively and confidently. Each subject is assessed through a combination of:

• Written Papers – These include essay-style questions, problem-solving exercises, and practical scenarios.

• Multiple-Choice Questions (in some cases)

• Short Answer Questions – Testing factual knowledge and comprehension.

The exact format and content varies depending on each individual paper.

 

Why is Common Entrance Important?

For pupils, Common Entrance provides:

• A structured framework to develop and demonstrate key academic skills.

• A chance to build confidence in exam settings, preparing them for future assessments.

• An opportunity to showcase their knowledge and potential to prospective schools.

For parents and schools, the exams offer:

• A reliable benchmark for evaluating academic readiness.

• Insights into a child’s strengths and areas for development.

• A transparent and fair selection process.

 

How to Prepare for Common Entrance

Preparation for Common Entrance requires careful planning and a well-rounded approach. Here are some key strategies:

1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the ISEB syllabus for each subject. This ensures that preparation is aligned with exam expectations.

2. Practice Papers: Completing past papers under timed conditions helps pupils build confidence and identify areas for improvement.

3. Targeted Revision: Focus on strengthening weaker areas while consolidating knowledge in stronger subjects. Revision should be structured and consistent.

4. Specialist Tutoring: Engaging a tutor with expertise in Common Entrance can provide personalised support, helping pupils master challenging topics and develop effective exam techniques.

5. Mock Exams: Practising under exam conditions can help pupils manage their time effectively and reduce anxiety on the day.

 

Why Choose Expert Support?

With over 20 years of experience in preparing pupils for 13+ Common Entrance exams, I provide tailored guidance to help each child achieve their full potential. Whether it’s mastering core subjects, building confidence in exam techniques or developing effective study habits, my approach is designed to meet the unique needs of each pupil.

 

If you would like to learn more about how I can support your child in their Common Entrance journey, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.