Entrance Examinations
The admissions test is in two parts, which will last, in total, about 3 hours, including breaks during the tests.
Part 1: Online tests
- Mathematics – 20 minutes
- English – 30 minutes
- Non-verbal Reasoning – 10 minutes
- Verbal Reasoning – 10 minutes
- Puzzles and Problem Solving – 15 minutes
- Creative Comprehension – 20 minutes
Maths and English questions will cover the range of topics as set out in Key Stage 2 of the National Curriculum.
Most questions are multiple choice with only a few requiring a typed word or number.
The Maths, Non-Verbal and Verbal Reasoning are adaptive which means that questions get harder or easier depending on answers submitted. Candidates are therefore not able to go back and change their answers.
The English, Puzzles and Problem Solving and Creative Comprehension are non-adaptive which means all candidates have the same questions and are able to move backward and forward through the questions changing their answers should they wish.
During the online test there will be a clock on the screen showing how long the candidate has left for each section. If candidates are eligible for extra time (please see Access Arrangements in Entrance Examinations), the extra time will automatically be added to the clock.
We will provide paper and pencils for any working out during the assessment. Pencil cases are not required. Dictionaries, calculators, mobile devices may not be used.
There is a familiarisation test in the Practice Test section. These questions are intended to demonstrate the style of question, not the content given the adaptive nature of some of the tests.
Part 2: Creative Writing
Part 2 is a creative writing task which candidates will handwrite (or type if appropriate). A specimen paper can be found in the Practice Test section. It is a 20 minute test of which 5 minutes is planning and 15 minutes is writing.
Selection
The offer of a place at the College is made on the basis of
- the candidate’s performance in the appropriate examination
- an interview
- a reference from the Head of the candidate’s present school
and is subject to the College’s Standard Terms and Conditions.
The Interview
Candidates who show promise in the entrance examinations are invited to attend an interview in January. Our aim is to provide a friendly atmosphere for the interview during which the candidate will be allowed the opportunity to give further evidence of his academic strengths and some indication of interests and abilities with which he might make a contribution to the general life of the College.