A common question from parents: "Does my child sitting for Year 6 take the same AEAS test as a Year 10 applicant?" The answer is no—AEAS tailors exams to three distinct levels based on target year groups, each sharing similar structures but varying significantly in difficulty. Understanding these tiers is crucial for strategic preparation.

1. AEAS Test Level Breakdown

Level 4–6: For Years 4–6 applicants

Level 7–9: For Years 7–9 applicants

Level 10–12: For Years 10–12 applicants
(Note: Years 1–3 typically require school application materials only.)

2. Key Difficulty Differences

Level 4–6 (Foundational Tier)

Tests basic English skills with slower audio, everyday vocabulary, and simple narratives.

Aligns with China’s junior middle school level (pre-HSCE).

Focus: Build exam confidence; prioritize vocabulary and introductory reading/listening.

Level 7–9 (Intermediate Tier)

Steps up in vocabulary/grammar rigor; adds science/argumentative texts.

Listening speeds increase; writing requires structured paragraphs.

Matches China’s senior high school level (touching on CET-4 vocabulary).

Focus: Enhance reading speed and essay logic; practice timed tests.

Level 10–12 (Advanced Tier)

Mirrors IELTS in structure/difficulty (excluding listening).

Academic reading passages (matching IELTS-style questions); writing demands social/academic arguments.

Speaking assesses critical thinking (≈ IELTS 5.5–6.5).

Exceeds China’s GAOKAO English in vocabulary/logical rigor.

Focus: "IELTS-style" prep for writing/speaking; refine academic output.

3. Math & Non-Verbal Reasoning: Level-Specific Shifts

Math:

Level 10–12: Complex algebra/geometry

Level 7–9: Applied logic & spatial tasks

Level 4–6: Basic arithmetic

Pattern Reasoning:
Complexity escalates by level (e.g., abstract logic leaps in Level 10–12).

4. Smart Preparation: Match Your Tier

Level 4–6: Focus on vocabulary + foundational practice.

Level 7–9: Drill reading efficiency + essay frameworks.

Level 10–12: Simulate IELTS conditions; polish academic writing.

Core Insight

AEAS tiers differ in cognitive depth—not format. "One-size-fits-all" prep risks under-preparing senior students or overwhelming juniors. Identifying your level is the first step to success.

Need More?
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