What is CAT4 Tests: How to Prepare & Practice Strategies

The CAT4 test doesn't measure what your child has learned, but rather how they think. This cognitive assessment can significantly influence their educational pathway for years to come.

The CAT4 test (Cognitive Abilities Test, Fourth Edition) is a widely used diagnostic assessment in UK schools that evaluates a child's developed reasoning abilities across four key areas. Unlike curriculum-based tests, it provides insight into learning potential rather than acquired knowledge, helping schools identify strengths, weaknesses, and the appropriate support needed. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the CAT4 assessment, including its structure, levels, preparation strategies, and where to find CAT4 practice tests. (available on rurera)

What Is a CAT4 Test?

The CAT4 test is a standardised assessment developed by GL Assessment that measures cognitive reasoning abilities across four distinct areas. Administered to students from ages 6 to 17+, it serves multiple purposes in educational settings:

• Identifying learning potential independent of curriculum knowledge

• Diagnosing learning preferences and thinking styles

• Informing teaching strategies and curriculum differentiation

• Aiding in setting and streaming decisions

• Providing baseline data for tracking progress over time

• Supporting transition phases between key educational stages

Unlike traditional exams, the CAT4 test doesn't require specific subject knowledge or revision. Instead, it assesses innate reasoning capabilities that underpin academic learning, making it valuable for identifying both gifted students and those who may need additional support.

Key Characteristics of the CAT4 Test Practice

• Timed assessment: Typically 2 hours total, divided into sections

• Multiple-choice format: Computer-based or paper-based versions

• Age-standardised: Scores compare students to national averages

• Non-verbal components: Minimises language and cultural bias

• Diagnostic reporting: Provides detailed profiles of cognitive strengths

CAT4 Test Structure: Breaking Down the Four Batteries

The CAT4 assessment test consists of eight short tests organised into four critical reasoning areas called "batteries." Each battery includes two subtests with different question formats:

1. Verbal Reasoning

This assesses thinking with words and language-based reasoning:

• Verbal Classification: Identifying relationships between words (e.g., "Which word doesn't belong: apple, banana, carrot, orange?") (available on rurera)

• Verbal Analogies: Determining relationships between pairs of words (e.g., "Hand is to glove as foot is to _____") (available on rurera)

Educational significance: Strong performance indicates good vocabulary development, reading comprehension potential, and ability to understand concepts explained verbally.

2. Quantitative Reasoning

This is measuring thinking with numbers and numerical concepts:

• Number Analogies: Identifying relationships between number pairs (e.g., "3 is to 9 as 4 is to _____")

• Number Series: Recognizing patterns in numerical sequences (e.g., "2, 4, 6, 8, _____")

Educational significance: Predicts potential in mathematics and subjects requiring numerical thinking; indicates ability to recognise patterns and relationships.

3. Non-Verbal Reasoning

This evaluates thinking with shapes and visual patterns:

• Figure Classification: Identifying which shape belongs to the same group

• Figure Matrices: Completing matrices with missing shapes based on patterns

Educational significance: Minimises language and cultural bias; indicates spatial awareness, logical thinking, and problem-solving with visual information.

4. Spatial Ability

This assesses thinking with shape and space:

• Figure Analysis: Determining how a folded, hole-punched paper would look when unfolded

• Figure Recognition: Identifying which shape is embedded within a complex design

Educational significance: Strong predictor of potential in STEM subjects, design, technology, and geometry; indicates mental manipulation ability.

Test Administration: Each subtest is strictly timed (usually 8-10 minutes), with practice examples provided before each section. The complete test typically takes 2 hours, often administered over multiple sessions for younger students.

Understanding CAT4 Levels: Age-Appropriate Assessments

The CAT4 test is organized into different levels corresponding to specific age groups. Each level maintains the same structure but increases in complexity:

Which Level Will My Child Take?

Schools typically administer the CAT4 test at key transition points:

• Year 4 (Level A): Baseline assessment

• Year 6 (Level C): Secondary school transition and setting

• Year 7 (Level D): New school baseline

• Year 9 (Level F): GCSE option guidance

• Year 11 (Level G): Post-16 pathway advice

Some selective schools use CAT4 Level B (Year 5) as part of their 11+ entrance assessments, making familiarity with the format particularly valuable for grammar school applicants.

Interpreting CAT4 Test Results: Scores and Profiles

Understanding CAT4 Scores

CAT4 results provide several different scores:

1. Raw Score: Number of correct answers (not typically shared)

2. Standard Age Score (SAS): Most important score—compares performance to national average for that age group

• Average range: 89-111

• Above average: 112-127

• Well above average: 128-142

• Below average: 74-88

• Well below average: Below 74

The Cognitive Bias Indicator

Beyond numerical scores, CAT4 reports include a Cognitive Bias Indicator that classifies students into one of four learning preference profiles:

• Verbal Bias: Stronger verbal than quantitative/non-verbal reasoning

• Numerical Bias: Stronger quantitative than verbal/non-verbal reasoning

• Spatial Bias: Stronger spatial/non-verbal than verbal/quantitative reasoning

• No Significant Bias: Relatively even profile across batteries

This profile helps teachers adapt instruction to match a student's cognitive strengths while developing weaker areas.

Effective CAT4 Test Practice Strategies

General Preparation Principles

• Familiarization, not cramming: The CAT4 assesses reasoning abilities, not learned content

• Practice with format: Understanding question types and test structure reduces anxiety

• Time management: Practice working under timed conditions

• Growth mindset: Emphasise that the test shows how they think, not what they know

Age-Specific Preparation Tips

For Years 3-4 (Levels X, Y, A):

• Use picture puzzles and pattern games

• Practice simple analogies with familiar objects

• Build vocabulary through reading and discussion

• Play shape and spatial games (tangrams, building blocks)

For Years 5-6 (Levels B, C):

• Critical for 11+ preparation: Many selective schools use CAT4

• Practice verbal classification and analogy questions

• Work on number sequences and relationships

• Develop paper-folding visualization skills

• Use free CAT4 practice tests for Levels B and C

For Years 7-9 (Levels D, E, F):

• Focus on developing all four reasoning areas evenly

• Practice more complex matrices and series

• Apply reasoning skills to curriculum subjects

• Use results to inform GCSE option choices

For Years 10+ (Levels F, G):

• Use CAT4 profiles for career and subject guidance

• Focus on strengthening weaker areas for balanced development

• Apply spatial reasoning to STEM subjects

• Use results for A-Level/IB pathway decisions

Free CAT4 Practice Tests and Resources

Official and Recommended Practice Materials

While GL Assessment sells official practice materials, several high-quality free resources exist:

GL Assessment Free Samples:

• GL Assessment CAT4 Information Page provides an

• overview and sample questions

• Official "Understanding CAT4" guides for parents and teachers

Educational Websites with Free Practice:

• TestPrep-Online: Offers free samples for each CAT4 level

• School Entrance Tests: Provides free practice questions and strategies

• 11+ Guide: Includes CAT4-style questions in their free resources

Free CAT4 Practice Test PDFs by Level:

• Level A (Year 4): Example Level A Questions

• Level B (Year 5): Example Level B PDF

• Level C (Year 6): Example Level C PDF

• Level D (Year 7): Example Level D Questions

• Level E-G: Fewer free resources, but question formats remain consistent

Creating Effective Practice Sessions

1. Start with untimed practice to understand question formats

2. Gradually introduce time limits matching actual test conditions

3. Review mistakes carefully to identify thinking patterns

4. Practice all four batteries for balanced development

5. Simulate test conditions with quiet environment and no interruptions

CAT4 Testing in Different Educational Contexts

CAT4 in Primary Schools (Years 3-6)

• Identification of gifted and talented students

• Early intervention for potential learning difficulties

• Setting for literacy and numeracy groups

• 11+ preparation for grammar school entry

• Transition data to secondary schools

CAT4 in Secondary Schools (Years 7-11)

• Baseline testing upon entry

• Setting and streaming decisions

• Identifying underachievers (high potential, low performance)

• GCSE option guidance based on cognitive strengths

• Careers advice linking abilities to subject choices

CAT4 in International Schools

• Language-minimal assessment for EAL students

• International benchmarking against UK norms

• Objective measurement across diverse curricula

• Transition support for mobile international families

FAQ’s

Can you prepare for the CAT4 test?

Yes, but not through traditional studying. Effective preparation involves:

• Familiarization with question formats

• Developing reasoning skills through puzzles and games

• Practicing under timed conditions

• Reducing test anxiety through exposure

How important are CAT4 results?

CAT4 results significantly influence:

• Setting/streaming decisions in schools

• Identification for gifted programs or additional support

• Teacher expectations and lesson differentiation

• 11+ selection in some grammar schools

• GCSE and A-Level option guidance

What if my child scores poorly?

Low CAT4 scores indicate areas needing development, not limited ability. They help schools:

• Provide targeted support in weaker areas

• Use strengths to support weaker areas

• Monitor progress with follow-up testing

• Adapt teaching methods to learning preferences

How often is CAT4 administered?

Most schools test at key transition points:

• Every 2-3 years to track development

• Upon entry to new school phases

• Before important educational decisions (options, exam choices)

Are CAT4 tests fair for all students?

CAT4 is designed to minimize bias through:

• Non-verbal components reducing language/cultural barriers

• Age standardization accounting for developmental differences

• Multiple batteries providing balanced profile

• Focus on reasoning rather than curriculum knowledge

Beyond the Test: Using CAT4 Results Effectively

For Parents:

• Discuss results with teachers to understand implications

• Focus on strengths while supporting development areas

• Use profiles to choose appropriate extracurricular activities

• Avoid comparisons with siblings or peers

• Remember it's a snapshot, not a fixed label

For Teachers:

• Differentiate instruction based on cognitive profiles

• Group students with complementary strengths

• Target interventions based on specific needs

• Set appropriate challenges for all ability levels

• Track progress against baseline data

For Students:

• Understand your thinking preferences

• Develop strategies for less preferred learning styles

• Use strengths to approach challenging tasks

• View results as guidance, not limitation

• Recognize abilities can develop with practice

CAT4 Practice Test Recommendations by Year Group

Year 3-4 Practice Focus:

• Simple pattern recognition games

• Basic analogies with pictures

• Shape matching and rotation activities

• Number sequence games

• Vocabulary building through reading

Year 5-6 Practice Focus (Critical for 11+):

• CAT4 Level B/C practice tests

• Verbal classification exercises

• Number relationship problems

• Paper folding and spatial visualization

• Timed practice sessions

Year 7-9 Practice Focus:

• All four batteries equally

• Complex matrices and series

• Advanced verbal analogies

• Application to curriculum subjects

• Practice tests for Levels D-F

Year 10+ Practice Focus:

• Strengthening weaker areas

• Applying profiles to subject choices

• Career relevance of different abilities

• Practice tests for Levels F-G

Final Recommendations for CAT4 Success

1. Start early with low-pressure reasoning activities

2. Use age-appropriate practice materials

3. Focus on understanding question formats, not memorizing answers

4. Develop time management skills through timed practice

5. Review mistakes to identify thinking patterns

6. Maintain perspective—CAT4 measures potential, not worth

7. Communicate with school about results and implications

8. Use results constructively to support learning development

The CAT4 test provides valuable insights into cognitive strengths and learning preferences when understood and used appropriately. By familiarizing your child with the test format through targeted practice and maintaining a balanced perspective on results, you can help them demonstrate their true reasoning abilities while reducing test anxiety.