Understanding Your Child’s
CAT4 Results
Received a confusing report filled with graphs from your child's school? We decode what "SAS" means, why Dubai schools use it, and how it impacts your child's future.
Need Support?
Low scores in Spatial Reasoning? Our Specialized Primary Tutors in Dubai (Police Verified & MoHRE Licensed) run a specific 6-week module to boost CAT4 performance.
Quick Guide: Decoding the Score
The most important number on your report is the Standard Age Score (SAS). This compares your child’s performance against students of the exact same age (down to the month) across the UK and UAE.
| SAS Score Range | Description | Stanine | Dubai School Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 127+ | Very High | 9 | Top set streaming; Potential for Gifted & Talented registers (JESS/DC). |
| 112 - 126 | Above Average | 7 - 8 | Target for selective schools (Dubai College, DESC). |
| 89 - 111 | Average | 4 - 6 | The majority of students. Meeting curriculum expectations. |
| 74 - 88 | Below Average | 2 - 3 | May require learning support intervention. |
Tip: A "Spiky Profile" (e.g., High Verbal vs. Low Spatial) is often more important than the total average score.
Video Guide: What Do These Scores Mean for Dubai School Places?
What Exactly Does CAT4 Measure?
Unlike a spelling test or a math quiz, the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) measures potential—how your child learns, not just what they know. It is split into four distinct "Batteries."
🗣️ Verbal Reasoning
What it is: Thinking with words. Analogies, classification, and vocabulary.
Dubai Context: This is often the lowest score for non-native English speakers (ELL). A low score here might trigger an "EAL Support" requirement.
🔢 Quantitative Reasoning
What it is: Thinking with numbers. Finding patterns in sequences.
Dubai Context: The best predictor for Mathematics and Physics. A low score here usually leads to "Foundation" math sets in secondary school.
🧩 Non-Verbal Reasoning
What it is: Thinking with shapes and patterns (2D).
Why it matters: This measures "fluid intelligence." It strips away language barriers and shows raw problem-solving ability.
🏗️ Spatial Reasoning
What it is: Thinking in 3D. Mentally rotating shapes and visualizing objects.
Why it matters: The #1 predictor for success in STEM subjects (Engineering, Architecture). This is the most trainable skill via tutoring.
Why Do Dubai Schools Use CAT4?
If you live in Arabian Ranches or The Springs, you know the pressure of "assessments." Schools like JESS, Dubai British School, and GEMS Wellington use CAT4 data for two main reasons:
- Streaming (Sets): In Secondary school (Year 7+), students are often grouped by ability in Math and Science based heavily on Quantitative and Spatial scores.
- Value-Added Analysis: The KHDA judges schools on how much progress students make. If your child has a high CAT4 score (Potential) but low exam grades (Attainment), the school is "underperforming" with that child.
Worried about the next Assessment?
Don't leave it to chance. We offer specific 6-week "Familiarization Modules" focused on Non-Verbal and Spatial Reasoning.
Find a CAT4 Specialist Tutor