LocationAbingdon, Oxfordshire
PupilsBoys
TypeIndependent · Boarding
Entry points13+
AssessmentISEB Common Pre-Test + The school’s own assessments
Ash’s view

A proper all-round boys' boarding school with outstanding pastoral care. ISEB pre-test is the gateway, followed by their own papers and interview. They want boys with character and enthusiasm as much as academic ability.

How entry to Radley College works

Radley College uses the ISEB Common Pre-Test as part of its admissions. It is an online, adaptive test in four parts: English (40 minutes), maths (40 minutes), non-verbal reasoning (30 minutes) and verbal reasoning (25 minutes). A child sits it once, and the scores are shared with each school that asks for them.

Because the test adapts to each answer, confident accuracy matters more than speed alone, and verbal reasoning is often the section that separates strong candidates.

Radley College also sets its own assessments. Depending on the entry point, these can include written papers, reasoning tests, an interview or a group activity, and they are where the school looks most closely at how a child thinks.

For 13+ entry (joining in Year 9), many schools assess children in Year 6 or Year 7, well before they start, so the timetable is worth checking early.

Dates and requirements change from year to year, so always check the latest details on the school’s website.

How I help children prepare for Radley College

  • 1:1 online lessons in English comprehension and writing, maths and reasoning (verbal and non-verbal), with the exam technique for each
  • Practice matched to Radley College’s assessments and mock papers under real timings
  • Interview practice, so children can talk about themselves and their interests with confidence
  • Ash’s Exam Zone app for daily practice between lessons

My Radley College guide sets out the full process, the key dates, and a preparation plan, and my mock papers let children practise under real timings.

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Questions parents ask about Radley College

At what age can my child join Radley College?

Radley College takes pupils at 13+. 13+ entry means joining in Year 9.

What entrance assessments does Radley College use?

ISEB Common Pre-Test, plus the school’s own assessments. The exact mix depends on the entry point, so check the school’s admissions page for your child’s year of entry.

Is Radley College a day or boarding school?

Radley College is a boarding school.