Understanding Independent School Pretests: ISEB, Quest, GL Adaptive and CEM Select

Independent schools across the UK now use a wide range of digital 11+ assessments as part of their admissions process. These tests are selected by schools, not parents, and often form only part of the overall assessment process.

Some schools use one main digital pre-test, while others mix multiple providers, combine them with internal English and maths papers, or only use selected components rather than the full test suite.

Understanding these differences helps families prepare effectively and ensures children are confident no matter what combination a school uses.

This guide explains the four most common digital 11+ pre-tests:

• ISEB Common Pre-Test

• Quest Assessment

• GL Adaptive Pre-Test

• CEM Select

Most Pretests are computer-based

What Are 11+ Pre-Tests?

11+ pre-tests are online, adaptive or semi-adaptive assessments designed to measure academic potential before later stages like:

• Written papers

• Interviews

• Group problem-solving activities

• School-specific reasoning tasks

Because every school has its own admissions approach, no two 11+ routes are identical.

1. ISEB Common Pre-Test

Overview

The ISEB Pre-Test is the most widely used online assessment for UK independent schools.

Assesses

• English (comprehension, grammar, vocabulary)

• Maths

• Verbal reasoning

• Non-verbal reasoning

Features

• Fully adaptive

• Multiple-choice format

• Approx. 2h 15m total

• One attempt per academic year

How Schools Use It

Some schools use the ISEB as a first-stage filter, while others combine it with in-house English and maths papers or interviews. Some schools may even use it only for specific applicant groups (e.g., overseas students).

Learn more about 11+ tuition strategies here.

2. Quest Assessment

Overview

Quest is a skills-based digital pre-test, combining curriculum knowledge with cognitive problem-solving tasks.

Assesses

• English

• Maths

• Verbal reasoning

• Non-verbal reasoning

• Puzzles and logic tasks

Features

• Partially adaptive

• Modern, varied question formats

• Strong focus on critical thinking

How Schools Use It

Schools may use Quest as a primary pre-test or only for specific sections.Often combined with:

• In-house English comprehension

• Creative writing tasks

• Maths problem-solving papers

• Interviews

3. GL Adaptive Pre-Test

Overview

GL Adaptive Pre-Test is an online, adaptive version of GL Assessment’s reasoning and curriculum papers.

Assesses

• English

• Maths

• Verbal reasoning

• Non-verbal reasoning

Features

• Fully adaptive

• Mixed interactive question types

• Curriculum-aligned maths content

How Schools Use It

Schools may:

• Use the full GL Adaptive test,

• Select only reasoning sections, or

• Combine it with internal English/maths papers and interviews.

4. CEM Select

Overview

CEM Select is a fast-paced, potential-based assessment with unique formats and high time pressure.

Assesses

• Verbal reasoning

• Non-verbal reasoning

• Numerical reasoning

• Reading comprehension

• Problem-solving skills

Features

• Fully adaptive

• Short, timed modules

• Drag-and-drop and interactive questions

• Emphasis on aptitude rather than curriculum

How Schools Use It

Some selective schools use CEM Select as the primary pre-test.Others combine it with:

• School-written English and maths papers

• Group interviews

• Creative writing or problem-solving activities

Schools Rarely Use Only One Test

✔ Most schools combine digital pre-tests with internal papers and interviews.

✔ Some use different tests for different applicants (boarding vs day, UK vs overseas).

✔ Schools may select only certain sections of a commercial provider’s suite.

Because of this, broad, flexible preparation is essential.

Comparison Table: At a Glance

Feature	ISEB Pre-Test	Quest Assessment	GL Adaptive	CEM Select
Adaptive	Yes	Partially	Yes	Yes
Core Curriculum (Eng/Maths)	Strong	Strong	Strong	Moderate
Reasoning	VR + NVR	VR + NVR + puzzles	VR + NVR	VR + NVR + numerical
Problem-Solving	Moderate	High	Moderate	High
Speed Required	Medium	Medium	Medium	High
Typical Use	First-stage filter depending upon school	Skills-based pre-test	Curriculum-aligned	Selective aptitude assessment

Preparing Your Child When Schools Mix Tests

For children applying to multiple schools with mixed test providers, preparation should include:

• Core English & maths

• Verbal and non-verbal reasoning

• Problem-solving and logic tasks

• Exposure to adaptive digital formats

• Practice for speed, accuracy, and timing

• Interview and communication skill development

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Final Thoughts

UK independent schools increasingly combine digital 11+ pre-tests, internal exams, and interviews to select the right candidates. Understanding the differences between ISEB, Quest, GL Adaptive and CEM Select—and knowing that schools rarely use a single test—allows parents to guide children with confidence.

With tailored preparation, children can approach any combination of tests calmly and successfully for ISEB, Quest, GL Adaptive and CEM Select.