If your child is set to take the Common Entrance exam next year, you may already be feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. This important assessment can shape the next stage of your child’s education, opening doors to some of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools. Understanding the process early on will help you and your child prepare with confidence.
What Is the Common Entrance Exam?
The Common Entrance exam, often referred to as CE, is used by many leading independent schools in the UK to assess pupils for admission. Depending on the school, children may sit the exam in Year 6 or Year 8. It is set by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) and covers a range of subjects.
For Year 6 entrants, the focus is usually on English, Mathematics, and Science. Year 8 candidates take these core subjects plus additional humanities and languages, such as History, Geography, French, and sometimes Latin. These papers don’t just test knowledge – they assess comprehension, analytical thinking, and the ability to apply learning under exam conditions crucial for the Common Entrance.
“Preparing for the Common Entrance is about building confidence as much as mastering the material.”
Schools use CE results alongside interviews, references, and school reports to make final admissions decisions. While the syllabus is standardised, each school sets its own pass mark, which can vary significantly depending on competitiveness.
The Common Entrance Timeline
If your child will be sitting the Common Entrance exam next year, knowing the timeline is essential. While the ISEB sets official exam periods, individual schools may adapt these to suit their own admissions schedules.
Most pupils targeting Year 8 entry will first take a pre-test in Year 6 or Year 7, followed by the full CE papers in June of Year 8. For Year 6 entry, exams are usually held in January or May. After marking, results are sent directly to the chosen schools.
Preparation often begins many months in advance. By the time your child reaches the final stages, they should have practised past papers, developed time management skills, and become familiar with the exam format of the Common Entrance.
“The earlier your child is familiar with the exam format, the calmer they will feel on the day.”
Supporting Your Child Through the Process
The Common Entrance exam is not just an academic hurdle – it is a significant emotional and psychological milestone for many pupils. For some children, the idea of sitting formal exams is exciting; for others, it can feel overwhelming. Understanding how your child approaches challenges will help you offer the right kind of support.
One of the most important things you can do is create a structured, calm, and consistent learning environment. Children thrive on routine, and having regular, scheduled revision sessions can make preparation feel like a natural part of life rather than an extra burden. This might involve designating a quiet study area and ensuring your child has the right materials, from past papers to revision guides focused on the Common Entrance exam.
Preparation is best approached as a steady journey rather than a last-minute sprint. Short, focused study sessions of 30–45 minutes with regular breaks tend to be more effective than long, unbroken hours of revision. This method helps information stick while keeping your child motivated.
“When revision becomes part of a manageable routine rather than an emergency response, children approach exams with greater confidence.”
Alongside subject knowledge, exam technique is critical. Many pupils lose marks because of timing issues or misunderstanding questions, not because they don’t know the material. Regular timed practice and reviewing errors can dramatically improve performance.
Emotional reassurance is equally important. Talk openly about the process, acknowledge any nerves, and focus praise on effort as well as achievement. Celebrating small milestones – such as improving on a practice paper – helps build resilience and a positive mindset, crucial for the journey through Common Entrance.
At Battersea House, we encourage a varied approach to preparation. Mixing traditional study with engaging activities, discussions, and real-world applications keeps learning enjoyable. For more on providing tailored support, you might find our article on SEND tutoring support insightful.
Why Online Tutoring Works for Common Entrance Preparation
Online tutoring is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the Common Entrance exam. It offers flexibility, access to specialist tutors, and tailored lesson plans to address your child’s exact needs.
Our tutors at Battersea House are experienced in the ISEB syllabus and in supporting pupils aiming for competitive independent schools. Whether your child needs targeted help in one subject or comprehensive preparation across the board, our online sessions are designed to build knowledge, sharpen exam technique, and develop confidence specifically for the Common Entrance requirements. You can read more about how online tutoring can make a difference in our post on online tutoring after private school.
FAQ
What is the pass mark for the Common Entrance?
This varies by school. Some expect 60–65%, while more competitive schools may require higher.
When should my child start preparing?
Ideally, targeted preparation should begin at least a year before the exam date.
Do all independent schools require the Common Entrance?
Not all do, but many selective schools still use it as a key part of their admissions process.