How long is each transfer test paper?

60 minutes for 56 questions, after an untimed practice section of 5 English and 5 maths questions that does not count.

Are all the questions multiple choice?

No. On each paper, 6 English comprehension questions and 6 maths questions need a written answer. The rest are multiple choice with five answers.

Can my child do maths first?

Yes. Pupils may start with English or with maths. The 60 minutes are shared.

The transfer test format

Two papers of the same shape, a week apart. From the official 2026 format.

Each paper	Questions	Answers
English: punctuation	5	multiple choice
English: grammar	5	multiple choice
English: spelling	5	multiple choice
English: comprehension	13	7 multiple choice, 6 written answers
Maths	22	multiple choice
Maths	6	written answers

That is 56 one-mark questions in 60 minutes. Each multiple-choice question has 5 answers. Spelling is marked only in the spelling exercise, and UK spelling is expected.

What is tested

English and maths from the Northern Ireland Key Stage 2 curriculum: reading a passage, punctuation, grammar, spelling and vocabulary; number, measures, money, shape and space, data and probability. Written answers are a few words or a number, never an essay.

Official assessment guide: 2026 format and specification

An independent course with original questions. Not affiliated with SEAG or GL Assessment.

Preparing for the transfer test?

Try every kind of question on the paper in the free first lesson.

Start the free lesson