Transfer test FAQs for Northern Ireland parents
Every family going through the transfer test year has the same questions swirling around, usually late at night. So here are the answers, in plain language, all in one place. Transfera is an independent practice platform and we are not part of SEAG, so for anything official the SEAG website is always the final word.
What is the transfer test in Northern Ireland?
It is the entrance assessment used by grammar schools to decide their Year 8 places. It is run by SEAG, the Schools Entrance Assessment Group, and children sit it in P7. Each grammar school then applies its own admissions criteria to the results.
When is the transfer test in 2026?
Paper 1 is on Saturday 14 November 2026 and Paper 2 is on Saturday 21 November 2026, with Saturday 28 November held in reserve. Registration opens on Monday 18 May 2026 and closes on Friday 18 September 2026.
What subjects does the transfer test cover?
English and Maths, drawn from the Key Stage 2 curriculum your child already studies at school. There are two papers, sat a week apart, with a mixture of multiple choice questions and some written answers.
Is the transfer test the same as AQE?
Not any more. AQE and GL were the two older transfer tests, and from November 2023 they were replaced by the single SEAG assessment. Every participating grammar school now accepts the same SEAG result, so there is only one test to prepare for. When parents mention AQE today, they usually mean the old system.
Is the transfer test compulsory?
No. Children only sit it if they are applying to academically selective grammar schools. Children who do not sit it can still move on to a non selective post primary school.
How do I register my child?
You register online on the SEAG website rather than through your primary school. There is a fee, with a waiver for families entitled to Free School Meals, and late registrations are not normally accepted, so the September deadline matters.
How is the transfer test scored?
Your child receives a total standardised age score across the two papers, which takes their age into account so younger children in the year group are not disadvantaged. Results arrive in January in a Statement of Outcome.
What score does my child need for grammar school?
There is no single pass mark. Each school sets its own admissions criteria, and the score needed varies from school to school and from year to year, so it is worth reading the criteria for the schools on your list.
When should my child start preparing?
Most families begin gently in P6, which leaves a comfortable year to build up before the papers in P7. Little and often beats long cramming sessions every time.
What happens if my child is ill on test day?
SEAG has arrangements for illness and other special circumstances, and there is a contingency date if the whole assessment has to be postponed. Check the guidance on the SEAG website and contact them as early as you can.
Does my child have to sit the test if they have special educational needs?
Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs do not need to sit the assessment, because a separate admissions process applies to them. SEAG also offers access arrangements for children who need extra support during the test.
What is the best way to practise for the transfer test?
Regular timed practice in the real question style, mixed with shorter sessions on weaker topics. Working through full mock papers builds the stamina and calm that make the real day feel familiar rather than frightening.
Where to go next
For the full timeline, see our guide to the transfer test dates for 2026. When you are ready to start practising, our transfer test practice covers timed mocks and topic work, or you can dip into some free practice questions right away.