Free assessment · Ages 6–17

Free Non-Verbal Reasoning Test for Children

Pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, and abstract thinking — language-independent

What is assessed

Pattern completion
Identifying and continuing visual patterns using shapes and symbols
Matrix reasoning
Completing a 3×3 grid of shapes where one piece is missing
Sequences
Identifying the next shape in a visual sequence
Spatial reasoning
Mental rotation and folding of 2D and 3D shapes
Figure series
Identifying which shape or figure does not fit a series

By age group

Ages 7–8
Simple pattern matching, basic shape sequences
Ages 9–10
Matrix puzzles, rotation, figure series
Ages 11–12
Full 11+ non-verbal reasoning standard
Ages 13–16
Advanced spatial reasoning and abstract matrices (CAT4 level)

International benchmarks

Scores are mapped against the following frameworks:

  • GL Assessment 11+
  • Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4)
  • ISEB Common Pre-Test
  • Cognitive Abilities Test (NFER)

Read the full methodology on the Methodology page.

How scores work

Eduentry uses a standardised scale with a mean of 100 and standard deviation of 15 — the same scale used by Wechsler, NFER, and most UK standardised assessments.

Score rangeClassificationPercentile
120+ExceptionalTop 9%
110–119Above Average75th–91st
95–109Average37th–63rd
85–94Below Average16th–36th
<85Needs SupportBelow 16th

Other subjects

Preparing for the 11+?
See how Non-Verbal Reasoning fits into the full 11+ practice test →

Related reading

Frequently asked questions

Is the Non-Verbal Reasoning assessment free?

Yes, completely free for all families. The full adaptive test and standardised score report are included at no cost.

What is non-verbal reasoning and why does it matter?

Non-verbal reasoning tests pattern recognition and abstract thinking using shapes — no reading required. It is included in most 11+ exams, the CAT4, and gifted identification tests because it measures cognitive ability independently of language background, making it fair for multilingual children.

How long does the Non-Verbal Reasoning assessment take?

The Non-Verbal Reasoning section contains 15 adaptive questions with a 30-minute total section time limit. Most children complete it in 15–25 minutes.

Which exams test non-verbal reasoning?

Non-verbal reasoning appears in GL Assessment 11+ papers, the CEM 11+, CAT4, ISEB Common Pre-Test, and US gifted tests including the NNAT and CogAT Nonverbal battery. It is also a significant component of independent school entrance exams.

Try the free Non-Verbal Reasoning assessment

Takes 5–8 minutes per subject. Instant standardised score and percentile ranking.

Start free assessment