a question about exams

[jwcpgh]

No: HPFGUIDX 83150

In OoP we saw what O.W.L.s are like.  Is this comparable to the 
exams English kids take in the RW?  That is, the WW exams had essay 
and, where relevant, practical components, but were not standardized 
multiple choice or other non-essay formats.  College entry exams 
here, are exactly that, although the SATs will soon be moving to an 
essay structure.  And would we expect N.E.W.T.s to be the same sort 
of setup as O.W.L.s?

I'm not entirely sure this is an appropriate list question, though, 
so feel free to respond to me offlist if you'd rather.

Thanks for your help-

Laura (another ignorant American-sigh)