Standardised Score
An age-adjusted score that allows fair comparison between children of different ages in the same year group.
Definition
A standardised score converts a raw test score (total number of correct answers) into a normalised figure that accounts for the child's exact age on the day of the test. In the Buckinghamshire 11+, GL Assessment uses age standardisation so that a child born in August — the youngest possible in their year group — is not disadvantaged compared to a child born in September. A standardised score of 100 represents exactly average performance for age. The qualifying threshold is 121, which is approximately the top 15–20% of the cohort.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a standardised score of 121 mean?
A standardised score of 121 means the child scored in approximately the top 15–20% of the national cohort for their age group. It is the minimum score needed to qualify for grammar school consideration in Buckinghamshire.
Is a higher standardised score better?
A higher standardised score reflects stronger performance relative to age-matched peers. However, once a child has qualified at 121, the score itself does not affect which grammar school place they receive — admission to oversubscribed schools is determined by oversubscription criteria (primarily distance), not by score.
12 questions across all four domains — instant GL-style score and readiness band. No account needed.