All candidates for a higher certificate must satisfy the examiners in at least four subjects taken from not less than three different groups, unless they take one subject in II. or IV., in which case they can choose three from I. No one may offer more than six subjects. The examination is so arranged as to hamper the school work as little as possible. Thus in languages great stress is laid on grammar, composition, and unprepared translation, while the set books can be selected from a long list; or (to give even greater freedom) it is allowed to ‘substitute with the consent of the Board other portions or periods which are at least equivalent to those specified in the prescribed list, provided that the extra expense involved be defrayed by the school authorities.’ This privilege of choice is extended also to Scripture, English and History. The subjects for the lower certificate are:— GROUP I. (1) Latin. (2) Greek. (3) French. (4) German. GROUP II. (1) Arithmetic. (2) Additional Mathematics. GROUP III. (1) Scripture Knowledge. (2) English. (3) English History. (4) Geography. GROUP IV. (1) Mechanics and Physics. (2) Physics and Chemistry. (3) Chemistry and Mechanics. The higher certificate is often taken by girls in Form Lower VI., and they are then free in their last year to prepare for university scholarships or do other special work. The lower certificate is less popular, but it is sometimes taken in Form V.