How to Prep for the CAT4 — A Parent's Guide (Grades K–8)
The Cognitive Abilities Test 4 (CAT4) is the UK and international counterpart to the CogAT: it measures reasoning across four batteries — Verbal, Quantitative, Non-verbal, and Spatial — and many international and private schools use it for admissions and ability grouping.
Because the CAT4 measures reasoning rather than curriculum, children who have seen the question formats before hold a real advantage. Familiarity with figure matrices, number series, and paper-folding style items is exactly what practice builds.
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What's on the CAT4
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal classification and verbal analogies — spotting relationships between words and categories.
Quantitative Reasoning
Number analogies and number series — finding the rule that connects quantities.
Non-verbal Reasoning
Figure classification and figure matrices — pattern logic with shapes, no reading needed.
Spatial Ability
Figure analysis and figure recognition — mentally folding, rotating, and matching shapes.
How to prep for the CAT4
- Run a free diagnostic first — most children are noticeably stronger in some batteries than others.
- Practice the spatial battery deliberately; it's the one children have usually seen least at school.
- Drill number series and analogies in short sessions until the common rules feel familiar.
- Build vocabulary a few words a day — it feeds the verbal battery directly.
- Finish with timed mixed practice so pacing on test day feels normal.
CAT4 FAQ
Is the CAT4 the same as the CogAT?
They're close cousins measuring similar reasoning skills. The CAT4 adds a dedicated Spatial battery and is more common in UK and international schools, while US schools mostly use the CogAT.
What is a good CAT4 score?
CAT4 reports standard age scores with a mean of 100. Selective programs often look for 115–130+, but each school sets its own bar.
Can you prepare for the CAT4?
Yes — format familiarity and pacing practice reliably help children show their true reasoning ability, which is the fair goal of preparation.
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