What is the 11+?
The 11+ is a selective entrance examination used by many grammar schools, some selective academies, and a number of independent schools in England to identify academic ability and potential. Until the early 1970s, all children took the 11+, but as most areas moved to comprehensive education, the exam became optional and region-specific.
Who takes it?
Typically pupils in Year 6 (age 10-11).
When?
Most areas sit exams in early September of Year 6; some independents run autumn/January sittings.
Why?
To help schools select pupils for academically selective places.
What does the 11+ test?
English
Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, spelling, vocabulary, writing.
Maths
Number, arithmetic, word problems, reasoning, algebra basics, geometry.
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Logic with words, analogies, codes, sequences, vocabulary application.
Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)
Patterns, rotations, reflections, sequences, relationships between shapes.
Formats & Timings
Two Common Paper Formats:
Standard format
Answers written on the test paper.
Multiple-choice format
Answers shaded in a separate booklet/OMR sheet.
Timing:
Papers are timed and typically last 45-60 minutes each. Some test days include two papers with a break. Success requires both accuracy and speed.
Exam Boards & Variations
The 11+ is highly regionalised. Schools and Local Authorities choose their provider—and some set their own tests.
GL Assessment
(formerly NFER)
The most widely used
The most widely used across grammar school areas, offers English, Maths, VR, NVR.
CEM
(Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring)
Mixed question styles across
Mixed question styles across verbal/non-verbal and numerical reasoning, often with a reputation for unpredictability and deep vocabulary.
ISEB
(Independent Schools Examinations Board)
Common Pre-Test (Year 6)
Common Pre-Test (Year 6) - online, adaptive (English, Maths, VR, NVR). Common Entrance (13+) - Year 8, broader curriculum.
Which schools use the 11+?
State Grammar Schools
Example: Kent, Buckinghamshire, Warwickshire, Lincolnshire, Birmingham areas
Selective Academies
Partial selection by ability
Independent/Private Schools
Some use 11+, others set bespoke papers, many use ISEB Pre-Test at 11+ or Common Entrance at 13+, some also run 7+ and 8+ entry
Key Dates & Timeline
Year 4-5: Foundation building; consider light exposure to VR/NVR; vocabulary growth.
Year 5 (Apr-Jun): Registration opens in many areas; book school open days.
Year 5 (Summer): Structured practice, first mocks.
Year 6 (Early Sep): Main test dates.
Year 6 (Oct): Results.
Post-results: School preferences, appeals, waiting lists.
SEN, Access Arrangements & Safeguarding
If your child has special educational needs or a diagnosed condition, you can apply for access arrangements (e.g., extra time, rest breaks). Deadlines and evidence requirements vary by Local Authority/ school.
Contact the school/LA well in advance.
Provide professional evidence (e.g., EP report).
Some providers offer familiarisation materials for pupils with anxiety or processing needs.
Preparation Strategy
The 11+ is highly regionalised. Schools and Local Authorities choose their provider—and some set their own tests.
Foundation First (Y4-early Y5)
- Reading habit (breadth & depth), mental arithmetic, number sense, vocabulary building (roots, synonyms/antonyms).
- Introduce VR/NVR gradually to build familiarity.
Structured Practice (mid Y5)
- Topic-wise drills in English & Maths.
- Regular VR/NVR practice by question type.
- Start timed sections to learn pacing.
- Diagnose gaps → targeted practice.
Exam Technique (late Y5-summer)
- Full mock papers under timed conditions.
- Review errors for patterns (misreads, time traps, weak topics).
- Learn guessing strategies for MCQs and move-on discipline.
Final Mile (pre-test)
- Rotation of mixed papers; speed drills and accuracy checks.
- Light revision of known weak areas.
- Sleep, nutrition, calm routines, confidence.
How Owlpath Academy Makes It Manageable
Free Diagnostic Assessment
See your child's level out of 10 in each area.
Smart Analysis
Pinpoint precise skill gaps and learning patterns.
Personalised Approach
Targets, lesson path, and resources matched to your local format (GL/CEM/ISEB/school-specific).
Student Dashboard
Lessons, drills, timed challenges, mocks, achievements.
Parent Dashboard
Progress, insights, tutor booking, study roadmap.
Tutors on Tap
Book expert 11+ tutors for targeted sessions (paper reviews, VR/NVR strategy, writing coaching).
Progress to Achievement
See milestones, celebrate improvements, and keep motivation high.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
With OwlPath, your child builds the confidence, skills, and exam strategy needed to succeed in the 11+ — and beyond.
