Questions parents ask.
Straight answers about how Merlin Practice works, what it costs and what it can and cannot promise.
Everything else.
Can't find your answer? Use the contact page and we'll reply.
Still unsure? Email us.
Can we try it before paying?
Yes. The taster is free, needs no card and takes about 12 minutes. It covers all eight question types and ends with a profile across the four batteries.
Are these GL Assessment's CAT4 questions?
No. Merlin Practice is independent and every question is written by us. We practise the same eight question types the CAT4 uses, but never copy GL Assessment's questions, and we have no link with GL Assessment or any school.
Does preparing for the CAT4 help?
GL Assessment says children do not need to prepare, and the test measures reasoning rather than learned facts. Practice cannot change underlying ability. What it does is remove surprise: knowing each question type and how the timer works lets a child spend the test thinking, not working out what is being asked.
Which pass should we choose?
Test Month (£29 for 1 month) suits a test date that is coming up soon. Admissions Pass (£59 for 6 months) covers a full admissions season. Both are one-off payments, and an extra child is £15.
Which level should my child practise?
Pick your child's year group and we suggest the usual CAT4 level. Schools sometimes use a different level, so if the school has told you the level, choose that instead. You can switch level at any time.
Will we get a CAT4 score?
No. We never show standard age scores, stanines, percentiles or predicted results. Those come only from the real test. Our parent report shows which question types feel familiar and which need more practice.
What age is Merlin Practice for?
Children aged about 8 to 13, in Years 4 to 8 (Grades 3 to 7), practising CAT4 Levels A to E. More levels will follow.
Is it right for schools in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar?
Many British and international schools in the Gulf use the CAT4 for admissions and for tracking progress. Each school decides which test and level to use, so check with the school. Our admissions guides explain what to ask.
How much practice is enough?
Very little. A few short sessions over two or three weeks is plenty: try each question type in learning mode, then some timed sets so the pace feels normal.
Does it work on a tablet or phone?
Yes. Practice works on tablets, laptops and phones. The CAT4 itself is usually taken on a computer or tablet, so a larger screen is closest to the day.
Can brothers and sisters share an account?
Yes. A family account holds up to 3 children, each with their own practice and reports. A pass covers one child; each extra child is £15 until the pass ends.
Does my child need an email address?
No. The parent creates the account. Children only need a first name or nickname, and practise from the parent's account.
Is it a subscription?
No. Test Month and Admissions Pass are one-off payments. Nothing renews automatically.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. If you change your mind within 14 days of buying, email billing@merlinpractice.com and we will refund you in full.
How do I get help?
Email support@merlinpractice.com or use the contact page. For purchases and refunds, email billing@merlinpractice.com.
Ready when you are
See every CAT4 question type in 12 minutes.
The free taster has two questions of each type and ends with a profile across the four batteries. No card needed.