A guide for parents · Registration in Year 5, tests in September of Year 6
The 11+ explained
The 11+ is the entrance test for grammar schools in the parts of England and Northern Ireland that still have them, and for many independent schools. In England it is usually sat at the start of Year 6, registration is usually in Year 5, and offers come on the national secondary offer day in March.
Where it applies
Grammar schools remain in some local authorities, among them Kent, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Trafford, and parts of London and the West Midlands, and across Northern Ireland. Each area, or each school, sets its own test, registration dates and pass mark, so the local authority’s admissions pages are the place to check. The government’s school admissions guide explains how applications work.
What the tests cover
Most tests are a mix of verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths and English comprehension. Many areas buy their tests from a commercial test writer, and some schools write their own; independent schools often use their own papers or a common pre-test taken on a computer. The test writers publish little, and what they do publish they ask tutors and other websites not to reproduce, so cookie does not link it here: ask the school or the local authority for its familiarisation materials.
Preparing without overdoing it
Reading widely, arithmetic done quickly and accurately, and a little practice at the question types so they are not a surprise on the day cover most of it. A tutor can help with the question types and the timing; the test is meant to reward ability rather than coaching, but unfamiliar question formats cost marks.
Where to check
Checked against these on . The rules change from year to year, so the pages above are the ones to trust if anything here disagrees with them.
Common questions
When is the 11+ exam?
Usually in September of Year 6, a few weeks into the autumn term. Registration closes before that, often in the summer term of Year 5, so check your area’s dates early.
What is a pass mark in the 11+?
It depends on the area and the school, and for some schools there is no fixed pass mark: places go to the highest scores. Results are usually standardised by age, so a younger child is not at a disadvantage.
Does passing the 11+ guarantee a place?
Not always. A pass makes a child eligible, and the school’s oversubscription criteria, such as distance, decide who is offered a place.
Can a child under 13 have lessons on Cookie Tutoring?
Yes. A parent or guardian creates the child’s account and sets the password, books and pays for lessons, and can read every message.