SEAG results come out online in late January of P7. For many parents, the Statement of Outcomes is full of unfamiliar numbers. Here is what each one means.
The scores your child receives
English (or Gaeilge) Standardised Age Score
This is your child's score for the English questions across both papers. The average is 100.
Maths Standardised Age Score
This is the score for the Maths questions across both papers. Again, the average is 100.
Total Standardised Age Score (TSAS)
This is the most important number. It is simply the English score and the Maths score added together. The TSAS ranges from 138 to 282, and the average is 200. A score above 200 means your child did better than the average pupil who sat the test.
What does "standardised" mean?
Your child's raw marks are converted into a standardised score. This takes the age of the child into account, so a younger P7 pupil isn't disadvantaged against someone born nearly a year earlier. That's why you won't see "45 out of 56" on the results page.
The six bands
Pupils are also placed in one of six bands, with Band 1 the highest and Band 6 the lowest. The bands are based on how your child's TSAS compares with everyone else who sat the test that year. Roughly the top 40% of pupils are placed in Band 1, and around 20% are in Band 6.
How grammar schools use the results
Every school sets its own admissions criteria. Some admit pupils in order of TSAS, highest first. Others use the bands, or their own score ranges. The score needed for a place also changes from year to year, depending on how many pupils apply. Always read the published admissions criteria for each school you're considering.
Can I ask for a re-mark?
Yes. You can request a re-mark of Paper 1, Paper 2 or both within the deadline SEAG publishes after results day. There is a fee, which is refunded if the re-mark changes your child's TSAS.
A word on results day
Whatever the number, try not to let your child compare scores with friends. Every child's path is different, and a good school fit matters more than a single test.
Want to know where your child stands now?
Our SEAG Mock Papers – At Home Edition let your child sit realistic SEAG-style papers at home, then compare their score with our Mock Band Guide. For more practice, see our SEAG-style practice papers.
A-List Tutoring is an independent tutoring centre. Our materials and mock bands are not produced or endorsed by SEAG. Always check seagni.co.uk for official information.