The benchmark test has been developed on the same principles as the ‘live’ tests. It is set within key skills levels 2/3. The pass mark for the numeracy, literacy and ICT benchmark tests is 60 per cent (17 out of 28 marks for the numeracy benchmark test).
All the numeracy skills tests have been calibrated statistically against the benchmark test for numeracy. As with any multiple set of tests, the tests are not of exactly the same difficulty, but they are of an equivalent standard. A test with slightly harder questions will have a slightly lower pass mark and a test with slightly easier questions will have a slightly higher pass mark.
The benchmark test for numeracy is presented in two formats: a fully interactive, online test, (opens in a new window) which will score your answers, and a non-interactive test with a separate answer key (new window, PDF format). The online tests include two interactive numeracy practice tests and benchmark and practice test for candidates with special arrangements.
The online QTS skills tests require Adobe Flash Player 10 or higher. Adobe Flash Player is free and can be downloaded by following the link on the right hand side of the page
In addition to the benchmark and practice tests, there are a range of non-interactive sample questions, which can be used to practice the types of questions that you will find in the skills test. These questions can be used to familiarise yourself with the content of the test before you attempt them under test conditions.
Further information and practice materials for candidates with special arrangements can be found on the special arrangements page.
Feedback on the numeracy practice material is welcomed. Please contact us if you have any comments.
