The short answer
SEAG is the common entrance test used by 63 selective post-primary schools in Northern Ireland. The 2026 test has two papers. Each scored paper has 28 English or Gaeilge questions and 28 maths questions in 60 minutes.
- Paper 1
- 14 November 2026
- Paper 2
- 21 November 2026
- Each paper
- 28 language and 28 maths questions
- Registration
- 18 May to 18 September 2026
What SEAG is
SEAG stands for Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group. It is a private, not-for-profit group. It is not run by the Education Authority or Department of Education.
Its results are used by member schools as part of their Year 8 admission rules.
What is in each paper
Paper 1 and Paper 2 have the same layout and level. Each begins with a short untimed practice part. The scored part lasts 60 minutes.
The content comes from Key Stage 2 English or Gaeilge and maths in the Northern Ireland curriculum.
Turn what you learn into a simple practice plan
Pip gives short English, maths and reasoning practice. Parents can see scores, focus areas and recent work.
- Free daily practice
- Instant answers and clear feedback
- Progress that is easy to check
Registration and cost
Registration runs from 18 May to 18 September 2026. The standard fee is £20. Children with Free School Meals Entitlement do not pay when proof is supplied.
Results and bands
SEAG gives a Total Standardised Age Score and a band. Each school then applies its own admission rules. A SEAG result does not by itself guarantee a place.
A simple parent checklist
| Item | 2026 detail | Parent action |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | 18 May to 18 September | Apply on SEAG portal |
| Paper 1 | 14 November | Attend chosen centre |
| Paper 2 | 21 November | Complete second paper |
| Results | 23 January 2027 planned | Check school rules |
Keep practice calm, short and useful
Pip helps children practise a little each day. It helps parents see what to do next without another long paper.
Sources and checks
Rules and dates can change. Check the official source before you act.
Questions parents ask
Who sets the SEAG test?+
GL Assessment sets and marks it for SEAG.
What if my child sits only one paper?+
They can receive an estimated result marked with an e. Schools decide how they treat it.
Does Pip copy SEAG papers?+
No. Pip is not linked to SEAG or GL. It can support broad English and maths skills. Use official SEAG material for the exact format.