SEAG Scores: A Parent’s Guide
Navigating the post-primary transfer process in Northern Ireland can feel overwhelming, especially with the introduction of the new SEAG Entrance Assessment. Whether your child is preparing to sit the test or you are awaiting results, understanding how SEAG scores work is essential. At On Target Tuition and Resources Lisburn, we are here to help demystify the process and support you every step of the way.
What Is the SEAG Entrance Assessment?
The Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group (SEAG) is a private company responsible for managing the new transfer test in Northern Ireland, known as the SEAG Entrance Assessment. This test has replaced the previously separate AQE and GL tests.
SEAG provides a standardised testing format for grammar schools that use academic selection. GL Assessment, a leading UK-based provider of educational assessments, designs and marks the test, drawing from decades of experience.
Overview of the SEAG Test Format
The SEAG Entrance Assessment consists of two test days, each including:
- A Practice Test (10 questions – not scored)
- An English Test (28 questions: 22 multiple choice, 6 written answers)
- A Maths Test (28 questions: 22 multiple choice, 6 written answers)
All responses are recorded on a separate answer sheet, with five possible answers provided for each multiple-choice question.
Understanding the SEAG Scores ‘Statement of Outcome’
After sitting both test papers, your child will receive a Statement of Outcome, a single-page report showing five key performance indicators:
1. English Standardised Age Score (SAS)
- Based on 56 English questions
- Includes multiple choice and written responses
- Scored between 69 and 141
- Average score is 100
2. Maths Standardised Age Score (SAS)
- Based on 56 Maths questions
- Mix of multiple choice and written answers
- Scored between 69 and 141
- Average score is 100
3. Total Standardised Age Score (TSAS)
- English SAS + Maths SAS
- Range: 138 to 282
- Average TSAS is 200
4. Cohort Percentile Ranking (CPR)
- Compares your child’s result to the rest of the cohort
- Example: A CPR of 58% means your child did better than 58% of students
- Only shown for students in Bands 2–4
5. Score Banding
Students are placed into Bands 1–6 based on their CPR:
- Band 1 – CPR of 60% or higher
- Band 2 – 50%–59%
- Band 3 – 40%–49%
- Band 4 – 30%–39%
- Band 5 – 20%–29%
- Band 6 – Below 20%
How Are SEAG Scores Calculated?
SEAG scores are not raw percentages. Instead, the Standardised Age Score (SAS) is adjusted based on:
- Your child’s age at the time of the test
- Number of correct answers
- Difficulty level of the paper
This scoring ensures fairness so younger pupils aren’t disadvantaged. While exact calculations aren’t publicly available, GL Assessment confirms that all scores are standardised with age in mind.
How Do Grammar Schools Use SEAG Scores?
Each grammar school sets its own admissions criteria, approved by the Department of Education. These are typically released in December.
Schools may use:
- The Total Standardised Age Score (TSAS)
- The Score Band
For example, some schools may only accept pupils in Band 2 or higher, while others may set a specific TSAS threshold.
What If You’re Unhappy with the Results?
If your child falls into Bands 2–4, you’ll see their Cohort Percentile Ranking (CPR), which can be helpful if you’re considering a remark.
Steps to take:
- Review the CPR closely
- Speak to a tutor or teacher
- Look into your chosen schools’ admission history
While remark requests don’t guarantee a change, they can be useful in borderline cases.
Supporting Your Child with SEAG Preparation
At On Target Tuition and Resources Lisburn, we’re committed to making the SEAG journey more manageable. Our expert tutors provide:
- Engaging English and Maths tuition
- Practice in exam-style conditions
- Regular assessments and feedback
- Strategies to reduce stress and build confidence
Our programmes are designed to boost understanding, motivation, and performance.
At On Target Tuition and Resources Lisburn, we provide a comprehensive range of SEAG resources designed to support both parents and pupils throughout the transfer test journey. Our expertly developed materials include practice papers, revision booklets, and online SEAG quizzes that are tailored to the SEAG assessment format. All resources are aligned with the Northern Ireland curriculum and created by experienced teachers to build confidence, reinforce key skills, and improve performance in both SEAG English and Maths.
Final Thoughts
Understanding SEAG scores helps parents and children plan the next steps with clarity. Whether you’re targeting grammar school admission or aiming to identify areas for improvement, knowing what the scores mean is key.
Need help with SEAG prep or interpreting results?
Contact On Target Tuition and Resources Lisburn today. We’re here to support your family every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a good SEAG score?
A good SEAG score depends on the school’s criteria, but generally, a TSAS above 220 or a placement in Band 1–2 is considered strong.
2. Can younger children be disadvantaged in the test?
No. The test is age-standardised, meaning younger children are not penalised for their age.
3. Is it possible to get a remark on SEAG results?
Yes. Parents of children in Bands 2–4 can request a remark, especially if their CPR is close to the boundary for a higher band.
4. Do all grammar schools use SEAG scores the same way?
No. Each school sets its own admissions policy, which may prioritise either TSAS or Band scores.
5. When are SEAG results released?
SEAG results are usually released in late January, with admission criteria published in December prior.
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