Preparing your child for an international school admission assessment can feel overwhelming, particularly if you’re navigating a new education system, relocating to a different country, or unfamiliar with global curricula.
International schools often assess not just academic ability, but adaptability, language development, social skills, and readiness for a multicultural environment. The approach varies by age, so preparation should look very different for a four-year-old than for a fourteen-year-old.
Preschool Admissions (Ages 3–5)
At this stage, assessments are rarely formal ‘tests.’ Instead, schools are observing development, independence, and social readiness.
Many international schools follow frameworks such as the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) or the British Early Years Foundation Stage. The focus is holistic.
What Schools Are Looking For
- Basic communication skills (in the school’s language of instruction)
- Ability to separate from parents
- Social interaction with peers
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Curiosity and engagement
How to Prepare
1. Encourage Independence
Practise simple self-care skills:
- Putting on shoes and coats
- Using the toilet independently
- Tidying toys
Confidence in small tasks reduces anxiety during observation sessions.
2. Build Language Exposure
If the school teaches in English and it’s not your child’s first language, increase exposure through:
- Storybooks
- Songs and nursery rhymes
- Everyday conversation
Fluency is not expected; comfort and willingness to communicate matter more.
3. Develop Social Confidence
Arrange playdates or group activities. Teachers often observe how children:
- Share materials
- Follow simple instructions
- Respond to adults
Avoid ‘drilling.’ At this age, preparation should feel like play.
Elementary/Primary School Admissions (Ages 6–10)
Elementary/primary assessments are usually more structured. Many international schools use standardised tests such as the CAT4, MAP, GL Assessment exams, or internally designed English and maths assessments.
Schools will also review previous school reports and conduct informal interviews.
What Schools Are Looking For
- Literacy and numeracy aligned with age expectations
- Cognitive reasoning skills
- Academic potential
- English proficiency (if applicable)
- Positive learning behaviours
How to Prepare
1. Strengthen Core Skills
Rather than rushing into practice tests, focus on fundamentals:
- Daily reading with comprehension discussion
- Mental maths fluency
- Clear handwriting and structured writing
If the school follows an IB curriculum, inquiry-based thinking is valued. Ask open-ended questions like, “Why do you think that happens?”
2. Introduce Timed Practice Gently
Once foundations are solid, introduce short, timed exercises:
- 20–30 minutes at a time
- Practise reading instructions carefully
- Review mistakes calmly
The goal is familiarity, not perfection.
3. Build English Confidence (If needed)
For families relocating internationally, language confidence is often the biggest hurdle. Encourage:
- Speaking in full sentences
- Expanding vocabulary
- Listening to audiobooks
Many schools assess communication ability more than grammatical precision.
4. Prepare for Interviews
Elementary interviews are usually conversational. Children may be asked:
- What they enjoy learning
- What book they’ve read recently
- How they solve problems
Practise speaking clearly and making eye contact but avoid scripted answers.
Middle & High School/Secondary Admissions (Ages 11–18)
Admissions become significantly more academic at this stage. International schools may offer programmes such as:
- International Baccalaureate (MYP or Diploma Programme)
- IGCSE
- American Advanced Placement (AP)
- National curricula (British, American, Australian, etc.)
Assessments may include:
- Maths and English exams
- Subject-specific tests
- Cognitive reasoning tests
- Essays or writing samples
- Interviews
- Review of transcripts
What Schools Are Looking For
- Academic readiness for rigorous coursework
- Critical thinking skills
- Time management
- Motivation and maturity
- Strong English proficiency
How to Prepare
1. Focus on Academic Gaps Early
Review prior school reports and identify weaknesses. Strengthen:
- Algebraic reasoning
- Essay structure and argument development
- Analytical reading
If applying for IB or IGCSE programmes, ensure familiarity with extended writing and structured responses.
2. Practise Exam Technique
Older students benefit from:
- Full-length timed practice exams
- Learning how to allocate time
- Reviewing mark schemes
Teach them to:
- Plan essays briefly before writing
- Show working in maths
- Check answers strategically
3. Prepare Thoughtfully for Interviews
Interviews at this stage assess personality and intellectual curiosity. Students should be ready to discuss:
- Academic interests
- Extracurricular involvement
- Future goals
- Reasons for choosing the school
Encourage authentic responses. Schools value self-awareness over rehearsed speeches.
4. Support Emotional Wellbeing
Teenagers often internalise pressure. Maintain balance:
- Prioritise sleep
- Encourage exercise
- Protect downtime
Remind them that admission decisions depend on cohort balance, not just individual ability.
Final Thoughts for International Families
International school admissions often involve additional layers: relocation stress, language transitions, cultural adaptation, and competition for limited places.
Across all age groups, the most powerful preparation includes:
- Strong foundational skills
- Gradual, realistic practice
- Confidence-building conversations
- A calm, steady parental mindset
Children thrive when they feel supported rather than evaluated at home.
An admission assessment is simply one step in a much bigger journey, and the right school fit depends on more than a single test performance.