13+ Common Entrance

What is the 13+ Common Entrance? 

 The 13+ Common Entrance is a process used by independent schools to admit students moving into Year 9, usually involving exams and an interview. Set by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB), the 13+ is used by many leading independent schools (listed here).    

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What is tested in the 13+ entrance exams?

There are three compulsory papers - English, Maths, Science. Optional papers vary by school, but are likely to include modern and classical languages, geography, history and religious studies.

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When are the 13+ exams and when should preparation begin?

Pupils sit the exams in year 8, with timelines varying by school.

Preparation could begin as early as Year 5, because some schools make conditional offers of entry in Year 9 if a student performs well in the 11+, taken in Year 6. For those taking the 13+ with or without a conditional offer, it’s wise to start preparing a year to 18 months beforehand.

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What do schools look for?

While schools look for well-rounded students who can work with others, they are keen to see academic aptitude and a curiosity beyond the curriculum. Performance in the entrance papers is key. The 13+ is highly competitive and schools expect a standard much higher than the national average. Parents of students taking the 13+ should be aware of the level of ability required and the amount of preparation needed.  

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How we help

At LAA we know how important it is to have assured, experienced support to navigate a competitive exam process. Our tutors work together with parents and children to develop a programme of study tailored to the individual student, addressing challenge areas and developing strengths. They can provide insight into the specific demands of each school and their individual application procedures, working through subject material, practice papers and the pressure of timed testing. Tuition with LAA goes beyond time spent within the lesson. Our tutors provide support and feedback throughout the entire process.

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In Person Tuition in London for the 13+ Common Entrance

Our tutors can provide in-person tuition in central London. If you're outside of central London, please consider our online tutoring service, or contact us by phone or email to find out how we can help.

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Online Tuition for 13+ exams

LAA’s tutors are confident at delivering online tuition, via videoconferencing, interactive whiteboards and Ediface, our online e-learning platform. We’re set up to make sure our talented tutors can teach students across the world, providing them with first class support for the 13+ exams.