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Private School Test Grades 1–11

Free ERB CTP Practice Test

The ERB CTP (Comprehensive Testing Program) is the gold-standard achievement test for independent and private schools — used by Dalton, Exeter, Prep schools, and many top independent schools nationwide. It measures reading, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and writing mechanics against an independent school norm.

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Grades 1–11
Grade Range
4 Sections
Test Areas
~2–3 Hours
Test Duration
Ind. School Norm
Score Format

All Resources

Everything You Need to Prepare

Practice Questions
8 free questions
Flashcards
5 key terms
Study Guide
On this page
Books
2 study guides
Articles
2 guides

Test Structure

What the ERB CTP Covers

Each section tests a distinct skill set normed against independent school peers. Understanding the breakdown helps you focus your child's preparation on the areas that matter most.

Reading Comprehension

Assesses reading ability through literary and informational passages at advanced complexity levels. Normed against independent school students — a strong score means your child is competitive among private school peers, a rigorous comparison.

Verbal Reasoning

Tests analogical reasoning, vocabulary, and verbal problem-solving. The verbal reasoning section goes beyond vocabulary recall — it requires applying word relationships at higher cognitive levels than most standardized tests.

Quantitative Reasoning

Measures mathematical thinking and problem-solving beyond computation. Tests number relationships, pattern recognition, and algebraic thinking. Emphasis on reasoning, not arithmetic speed.

Study Strategy

Prep Tips for Parents

1
Read above grade level

Private school norms are demanding. Consistently reading complex texts builds the comprehension stamina the CTP measures.

2
Practice verbal analogies

The verbal reasoning section heavily tests analogies — function, part-whole, creator-creation, and category types. Daily practice with analogy sets pays off.

3
Focus on quantitative reasoning not computation

CTP quantitative is about logic and number relationships, not arithmetic drills. Puzzle-based math and pattern games are better prep than memorizing formulas.

4
Understand 'independent school norm'

A 70th percentile ERB score is not the same as a 70th percentile state test score. You're competing against private school peers — set realistic expectations.

5
Use ERB results to guide tutoring

CTP results break down by subject area. Use them diagnostically — identify which section is below your child's other scores and focus tutoring there.

Study Materials

Recommended Books

Handpicked study guides to complement your online practice. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

ERB CTP Test Prep Book

The Gifted Child's Guide to Private School Testing

Comprehensive guide for navigating private school assessments including the ERB CTP, ISEE, and SSAT.

Verbal Reasoning Book

Verbal Reasoning and Reading Comprehension: Grades 4–6

Focused practice on the two skills that most heavily influence ERB CTP scores at the upper elementary level.

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See How You Do

Sample Question Verbal Reasoning

Architect is to Building as Author is to ___

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Learn More

ERB CTP Articles

School Guide

ERB CTP 5 Guide: What Private School Parents Need to Know

How the ERB works, what scores mean against the independent school norm, and how to interpret your child's results.

Read article →
Comparison

Private School Testing: ERB vs ISEE vs SSAT Explained

The three main assessments used by private schools — what each one measures and when schools use each.

Read article →

View all articles →

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ERB CTP?

Achievement test used by independent schools to measure reading, verbal, and quantitative ability against a private school peer group.

What grades take the CTP?

Grades 1–11, with different levels for each grade band.

What is the independent school norm?

Scores are compared to other independent school students nationally — a harder comparison group than public school norms.

How are CTP scores used?

Schools use CTP to guide curriculum, identify students needing support, and sometimes for placement decisions.

How does CTP differ from ISEE or SSAT?

CTP measures current achievement; ISEE/SSAT are admissions tests. CTP is administered by the child's current school, not by the applicant.