PagineNorthern Ireland Curriculum Guide & Practice Tests
Northern Ireland follows the Northern Ireland Curriculum, with the Foundation Stage (P1–P2), Key Stage 1 (P3–P4), Key Stage 2 (P5–P7), Key Stage 3 (Years 8–10) and Key Stage 4 (Years 11–12). Many grammar schools admit pupils using unregulated transfer tests taken in P7.
- 14 levels
- 310 practice tests
- 2 exam guides
Choose a level
Exams and tests
| Exam | Subjects | When | Counts? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer Test (SEAG Entrance Assessment, P7) | English and mathematics (Irish-medium version available) | November of P7 (2025: papers on 15 and 22 November; results in January) | Optional and unregulated; used by many grammar schools for Year 8 admission. |
| GCSEs in Northern Ireland (CCEA) | English language, maths, sciences, history and more | Exams May–June of Year 12 | Used for post-16 progression. |
How school is organized
P1–P7 (primary; children start P1 at about 4–5) and Years 8–14 (post-primary), with GCSEs in Year 12 and A levels in Year 14.
Finishing school: Students take GCSEs (mostly CCEA, graded A*–G including C*) at 16 and A levels at 18.
Official curriculum: Northern Ireland Curriculum
Other nations
Frequently asked questions
What curriculum does Northern Ireland use?
Northern Ireland follows the Northern Ireland Curriculum, with the Foundation Stage (P1–P2), Key Stage 1 (P3–P4), Key Stage 2 (P5–P7), Key Stage 3 (Years 8–10) and Key Stage 4 (Years 11–12). Many grammar schools admit pupils using unregulated transfer tests taken in P7.
How are school years organized in Northern Ireland?
P1–P7 (primary; children start P1 at about 4–5) and Years 8–14 (post-primary), with GCSEs in Year 12 and A levels in Year 14.
What is needed to finish school?
Students take GCSEs (mostly CCEA, graded A*–G including C*) at 16 and A levels at 18.
Which exams do students take in Northern Ireland?
Transfer Test (SEAG Entrance Assessment, P7); GCSEs in Northern Ireland (CCEA).