Eton College is one of the United Kingdom鈥檚 best known and most prestigious independent schools, founded in 1440 AD by King Henry VI, and famous for having educated many British politicians, scientists, and creative talents. As such, the process of securing a place is highly competitive. Entry at 13+ requires students to pass several stages, including the Eton List Test, the ISEB Common Pre-Test, and an interview.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the test format, interview process and preparation tips, including some first hand insights from Josh Pull, a Keystone Director and former Old Etonian.
What are the different entry points for Eton?
Eton have two entrance points:
- 13 Plus Entrance: Students start in Year 9, when they are typically 13 turning 14 years old. The assessment procedure for Year 9 entry starts 2 years early in Year 6.
- 16 Plus Entrance: Students start in year 12, the first year of Sixth Form, when they are typically 16 turning 17 years old. The assessment procedure for Year 12 entry takes place in October/November of the year prior to them joining the school.
Eton Admissions Tests
As an academically selective school Eton uses entrance exams to select which boys are suitable to gain a place. They use a 3 stage process, with boys being selected to move to the next stage based on their relative performance. The first two stages occur when the applicant is in year 6 after which conditional offers are made. Thereafter applicants will take the Common Entrance or Eton Scholarship in year 8.
Stage 1 is the ISEB Common Pre-Test, which is a computerised test, sat during October or November in year 6, consisting of English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Read more about the ISEB Common Pre-Tests
Stage 2 is Eton鈥檚 own test, also sat in year 6 and has two parts: an online test designed to assess a boy鈥檚 potential, and an interview.
Boys who are successful at Stage 1 come to Eton for assessment in the following age groups:
- Boys for whom significant financial aid is requested will be assessed in mid-January
- Boys with birthdays between September and the first half of December will be assessed in late January/early February
- Boys with birthdays between the second half of December and March will be assessed in late February/early March
- Boys with birthdays between April and August will be assessed in late April/early May
The assessment will consist of an individual interview and an online predictive test of academic ability and potential on a computer (minimal IT skills required).
Eton publish results for each of the above groups in March, May and July respectively, taking into account all aspects of each application.
If successful at Stage 2 a conditional offer is made and the final assessment stage takes place in Year 8 which depending on circumstances will be one of the Common Entrance, King鈥檚 Scholarship, or Eton鈥檚 own entrance examinations. Alternatively a boy may be placed on the waiting list and will be re-tested at the end of Year 7.
Eton Waiting List
Eton offers some boys a Waiting List Place and, if they accept, invites them to come back to Eton in the Summer term of UK School Year 7 for a further assessment. Each year they accept a number of boys on the Waiting List into the school; the number varies from year to year.
The Eton List Test: Structure & What to Expect
The Eton List Test is Eton's own test which is sat in Year 6 and is taken following the ISEB Common Pre-Test.
The Eton List Test is an adaptive online assessment that evaluates candidates' academic ability and problem-solving skills. The test is designed to be predictive of a boy鈥檚 academic potential.
Key Areas Assessed
The Eton List Test is probably the most renowned school specific computerised test. Rather than using an online computerised Pre-Test designed by the likes of the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM) of GL Assessment, Eton鈥檚 List Test has reportedly been developed in conjunction with Cambridge University鈥檚 Psychometric Centre which is a part of the Judge Business School.
Little is known about the exact composition of the Eton List Test but anecdotally it seemingly assesses similar areas to other pre-tests such as the ISEB Pre-Test. Recent candidates report tackling questions on the following:
- English: Corrective grammar exercises, cloze procedure, and an open-ended comprehension question requiring students to type a response.
- Maths: Especially challenging word problems, often requiring the assimilation of multiple pieces of information.
- Reasoning: Logic and lateral thinking questions testing spatial and non-verbal reasoning.
Eton List Test Example Questions
What types of questions might come up on the test?
Although there are similarities between the ISEB Pre-Test and the Eton List Test 鈥� namely that both are computerised tests assessing a candidate鈥檚 ability in English, Maths and Reasoning 鈥� Eton are deliberately guarded about the exact contents of their assessment. There are no past papers or official preparation resources, and the information provided by Eton is limited. However, based on the experiences of candidates who sat the assessment this year, here are some key aspects of the Eton List Test that differentiate it from the ISEB Pre-Test:
- Each individual question is timed. The shortest time allotted for a question is six seconds, while the longest is 75 seconds. If an answer is not submitted within this timeframe, the candidate is automatically moved on to the next question.
- The test is entirely computerised. No rough paper or pens are permitted, and so students must rely on their mental arithmetic abilities for the Maths section.
- The test concludes with a short writing task. Some years, this has taken the form of a short argumentative essay, while in other years it has involved creative writing. The time allowed for this final task is usually between five and ten minutes.
Question Examples
1. Proofreading
Proofreading tasks on the Eton List Test will require candidates to identify errors within a text. Note that the text gradually rises up the screen (in a similar way to the introduction to a Star Wars movie), which limits the candidate鈥檚 ability to read back over the passage. To prepare for this style of question, the best method is to proofread passages under strict time conditions. For example, the question below should be attempted within a 90-second time limit.
Read the following passage and identify the six errors.
Dear Sir.
I would like to apply for the position of Summer Activity Worker at Little Ladybirds? Last year I was involve in a school project which organised reading groups for younger children. I organised weekly sessions for the participants and worked with the school to ensue that the project ran smoothly.
This experience highlights my ability to work well with other people. I am extremely reliable and always punctual. My teachers have praised my responsable nature.
I have enclosed my CV with this letter. I hope you will consider me for the position.
Yours sincerely,
Jacob Laurent
2. Odd Word Out
These questions require candidates to identify which word does not fit into the group. The 鈥済roup鈥� might be based on word class, meaning, pronunciation or even letter arrangement.
Identify the odd word out in each list of words below.
1. MELON MAGNET HELMET SAUSAGE EXCITEMENT
2. VEER PIER SEAR MERE WEAR
3. SMELLY PERFUME SCENT STENCH AROMA
4. BOW STERN PORT OAR STARBOARD
5. HERD CROWD CHILDREN FLEET MURDER
6. OAK LEAF ELM YEW WILLOW
7. FLOOR DUSTER CLOTH VACUUM MOP
8. PART KING PRAT RAPT TRAP
9. YELLOW CRUMB STRUCK STRIPY CHARGE
10. TO FOR NEAR THROUGH AND
3. CLOZE
CLOZE tasks require students to select the appropriate option to fill in a blank space. For the Eton List Test, the CLOZE questions may be embedded within a challenging prose extract.
Choose the option which best fills the gap.
On the pleasant banks of the Garonne, in the province of Gascony, there stood, in the year 1584, the __________ [STATUE / CH脗TEAU / STATUTE / HOVEL / SEA] of Monsieur St. Aubert. From its windows were seen the __________ [DULL / TURGID / GLORIOUS / CURIOUS / TIRESOME] landscapes of Guinness and Gascony stretching along the river, alive with luxuriant __________ [FLOWERS / GOLD / EMBLEMS / FAUNA / MARSHES] and vine, and plantations of olives. To the south, the view was bounded by the majestic Pyrenees, __________ [WHOSE / WHICH / WHO鈥橲 /THEY鈥橰E / THEIR] peaks, veiled in clouds, or exhibiting forms, seen, and lost again, as the partial __________ [TREES / MOUNTAINS / FLORA / VAPOURS / RIVERS] rolled along, were sometimes barren, and gleamed through the blue tinge of air, and sometimes frowned with forests of green pine, that swept downward to __________ [WHOSE / WHICH / WHO鈥橲 / THEY鈥橰E / THEIR] base.
4. Memory Matrix
The memory matrix requires candidates to observe the arrangement of squares on a board and then repeat the pattern from memory. An excellent website for practising this activity can be found here:.
5. Comprehension Recall
Be warned that some comprehension questions on the Eton List Test will be asked a short while after the text has disappeared. Without looking back at the proofreading exercise, can you remember:
1. the name of the organisation to which the writer was applying for a position?
2. the name of the writer of the letter?
6. Arithmetic
These questions are designed to test a candidate鈥檚 mental maths, and to assess their ability to handle worded problems under time pressure.
1. Istanbul is three hours ahead of London. Hong Kong is five hours ahead of Istanbul. Boston is five hours behind London. Liam lives in Boston and would like to set up a meeting at 10.30pm his time with Joyce, who lives in Hong Kong. What time will the meeting start for Joyce?
2. What is the cube root of 729?
3. If I flip a coin ten times, what is the probability that it lands on tails every time?
4. What is the total interior angle of a pentagon?
5. If a car has to complete a journey of 250 miles and is travelling at a speed of 40mph, how long will it take to complete the journey in minutes?
7. Writing Task
Unlike the ISEB Pre-Test, the Eton List Test generally concludes with a slightly longer written task. Below is a rough example of what might be asked. Aim to spend no longer than ten minutes on this task (including reading and planning).
The Oracles were important people in Ancient Greece. It was believed they possessed the power to speak on behalf of the gods, and that they could predict the future or answer difficult questions posed by those who visited them. Before receiving visitors, an Oracle would wash themselves in a nearby river, so that they were purified before opening themselves to the inspiration of the gods.
Read the passage below, and then write a response to the question.
Servant of the Delphian Apollo:
Go to the Castalian Spring,
Wash in its silvery eddies
And return cleansed to the temple.
Guard your lips from offence
To those who ask for oracles.
Let the God's answer come
Pure from all private fault.
Imagine you are the Oracle of Delphi. A young man visits you, asking for a prophecy. What prophecy would you deliver? You may write your response as a poem if you wish.
How do you prepare for the Eton List test?
In preparation for entry to Eton, it is important to navigate the school's highly academic and competitive landscape while showcasing a well-rounded profile.
- Strive for academic excellence by excelling in standardised tests and entrance exams, demonstrating a deep understanding of the curriculum.
- Take part in a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that highlight not only intellectual prowess but also a genuine passion for various subjects as well as showcasing leadership skills.
- Practise effective communication and interpersonal skills, as interviews are part of the admission process.
- Recognise the intensity of the competition for admission and set yourself apart through exceptional academic achievements, a strong work ethic, and active participation in intellectually stimulating projects or competitions
- Familiarise yourself with the school's traditions and values by seeking guidance from current or former Eton students, attending open days, and staying informed about any specific changes at the school.
Remember, Eton values not just excellent academic achievement but also personal qualities such as leadership, critical thinking, and a commitment to the broader community.
Are there any past papers for the Eton Entrance exam?
In short, no! However, for Stage 1: The ISEB Pre-Test whilst there are no practice tests available but there is a . Unfortunately, in the case of Stage 2, the Eton List Test, the school do not provide any sort of practice assessment or familiarisation test.
Instead, we recommend students continue to familiarise themselves with challenges of online testing by engaging 鈥榣ittle and often鈥� with the myriad of online 11 Plus preparation software available on the internet.
What is the acceptance rate for Eton?
Eton do not publish any admissions data to allow for an accurate answer to this question. However, anecdotally we know that both 13 Plus and 16 Plus entrances are extremely competitive.
At 13 Plus Eton has around 240 places and usually receives over 1,300 applications.
At 16 Plus Eton offers around 4 places each year and usually receives well over 75+ applications.
CAT4 Test Scores for Eton
UK independent Prep Schools also use the CAT4 tests as a data point (alongside qualitative and quantitative in-school data) to guide Senior School conversations with parents. This is because of its similarity to the existing Pre-Tests. There is not a definitive 鈥榞ood score鈥�, but it is fair to expect students considering Eton to be scoring well above average given the competitiveness of the admissions process. The CAT4 produces two scores, a National Percentage Rank or NPR and a Standard Age Score or SAS. SAS scores range from 69 to 141, and the average for each age group sits at 100, although this does range from 89-111.
Read more in our Guide to the CAT4 test.
The Eton Interview: What to Expect & How to Prepare
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, which focuses on assessing personality, interests, and suitability for Eton鈥檚 academic and extracurricular environment.
What questions do they ask at interview for Eton?
Eton鈥檚 interview is famously short, often no more than 15 minutes. Many students approach school entrance interviews with an amount of trepidation, concerned about saying the wrong thing and being asked obscure questions. Our experience is that the interview is fairly standard in that it ask students about their:
- Family (Tell me about your family 鈥�)
- Current School (What do you most enjoy about your current school?)
- Academic Interests (What is your favourite subject? What are your reading?)
- Extracurricular Interests (What do you get involved in outside of the classroom at school?)
They have also been known to ask 鈥榃hy Eton?鈥�, 鈥楬ow do you hope to contribute at Eton?鈥� and to assess boy鈥檚 keenness to board, especially if he is applying from a day school.
Successful candidates at interview readily engage with the questioning and provide well consider answers. Authenticity is also key; schools like Eton are especially alert to and weary of a polished answer. In addition, other common pitfalls include:
- Not listening carefully enough to the question asked
- Rushing into answer without thinking it through
- Saying things they think interviewers wish to hear
Because of the brevity of the interview it is really important to avoid the pitfalls above as there is little time to make a good impression.
Can you get a scholarship for Eton?
Yes, Eton offers scholarships for talented boys, however, these do not automatically come with any reduction of fees. Eton does offer (often significant) fee reductions via bursaries which are means-tested based on the family situation. At 13 Plus the most well-known scholarship is the King鈥檚 Scholarship which started in 1440 and is designed for academically very able boys. The examinations are challenging and boys sit 8 academic exam papers which include English, Maths, Science, Humanities and Languages. Additionally, there are Music scholarships for talented musicians to audition for. At 16+ the only scholarships available are for boys currently educated in the state system. These include the Orwell Award for all-round excellence and there is a Music and Drama award too.
There is also the New Foundation Scholarship which is awarded to boys who are outstanding academically and who were educated in a primary state school.
What is the Eton Kings Scholarship?
Each year Eton award between 12-14 King鈥檚 Scholarships. The King鈥檚 Scholarship examinations are sat in late April/early May when a boy is in Year 8.
The King鈥檚 scholarship itself is one of the most academically challenging of those offered by UK independent schools. The papers are largely based on the Common Entrance syllabus but go well beyond it in the level of analytical response required.
Boys must sit the following exams:
- English
- Creative Writing
- Mathematics A
- Science
- General Paper I
And in addition, they then must opt to sit 3 further examinations from the following choices and at
- French
- Greek
- General II
- History-Geography-Divinity
- Latin
- Mathematics B.
There are a essentially 3 outcomes for those who decide to go for the scholarship:
1. Being Awarded a King鈥檚 Scholarship
2. Conditional Offer Holders: Those boys who hold a conditional offer (via the Year 6 Pre-Test admissions process) who deliver:
- A satisfactory performance but who are not awarded a King鈥檚 Scholarship are guaranteed entry in to Eton.
- An unsatisfactory performance in the King鈥檚 Scholarship may be asked to complete the 13+ Common Entrance in addition to the King鈥檚 Scholarship to guarantee their place at Eton.
3. Non-Offer Holders: Those boys who enter the King鈥檚 Scholarship without a conditional offer of a place at Eton who do not win a Scholarship will not be offer a place in the school.
Those boys who are awarded the King鈥檚 Scholarship will a place in College House (although boys who possess conditional offers can chose to sit for the King鈥�. Scholarship but prefer to enter another (Oppidan) house).
Is it hard to get into Eton college?
Eton College is a highly selective school and therefore the admissions process is designed to select academically able boys. Eton has around 240 places at 13+ and usually receive over 1,300 applications, so there is a lot of competition.
How hard is the Eton entrance exam?
The ISEB Common Pre-Tests and the Eton Test are both online adaptive tests. This means the questions get more difficult the better a candidate does which increases their Standardised Age Score (SAS). As Eton is highly selective, the successful candidates will have a SAS score well above average and will have faced the more difficult questions in the tests.
Eton Leavers Destinations
Most Etonians go on to higher education. Historically Eton have not published the university destinations of their leavers, but as of 2020 they have become more open; 41 students went on to Oxbridge and 39 boys received offers from US universities, including Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Princeton, Columbia, Brown and Dartmouth in 2021/22. The remainder won places at top UK universities including Bristol, Edinburgh, Exeter, Imperial and UCL. What is still less well known is if there are any trends in the courses Etonians typically go onto study. In 2020 5 students went on to study medicine.
Roughly a third of each year take a year out or GAP Year to travel, volunteer or work, whilst the majority head straight to university. Eton, like a number of other independent schools, have experienced an increase in the number of students considering overseas universities, especially in the US, and consequently have a well-established programme of support run by US university specialist to ensure interested boys are appropriately supported.
Josh Pull, Keystone Director and old Etonian gives his insights into the history behind the Eton list test:
"When I applied to Eton in the mid-1990s many students didn鈥檛 have to sit the Eton list test in year 6 (instead only taking Common Entrance or the Eton Scholarship in year 8). Some applicants, including myself, did have to sit the Eton list test before getting a conditional offer, subject to passing Common Entrance. It was always something of a mystery to me as to which children had to sit the list test and which did not, and it was something of a lottery depending on when you were born and how many other applicants there were born at the same time.
Nowadays of course all applicants have to sit the test to ensure the application process is the same for everyone and to help narrow down higher volumes of candidates as applications began to increase in the late 1990s/early 2000s.
The assessment itself, interestingly given that it鈥檚 over 25 years ago, bares quite a bit of similarity to the test today. It combined a paper-based reasoning-type assessment that (you guessed it) was designed to assess underlying potential rather than prior knowledge as well as a short interview.
I still remember the interview itself and recall building up a good rapport with the interviewer. It was much more light-hearted and conversational as opposed to a formal interview. I think that still remains the case today: the interviewers are really looking to get to know who you are as a personality as opposed to test you or catch you out (which of course is more than sufficiently covered in the computerised tests!).
Hard as it is, do try to relax for the interview and see it as a chance for an interesting discussion rather than a part of the assessment process to be feared."
Tuition for The Eton List test
Each year Keystone supports many students preparing for school entrance exams, including The Eton List Test.
For more details on how Keystone can help with preparation for school entrance, please call the office for a chat with one of our client managers, or contact us via our request a tutor form.
Read more about our Eton College Admissions Tutors.