11+ Exam Guide 2026: Grammar School Entry by Region

The 11+ in 2026: What Parents Need to Know

The 11+ is not a single national exam. It varies by region, by test provider, and sometimes by individual school. Understanding which test your child will sit — and what it covers — is the first step to effective preparation.

Test Providers

Most grammar schools use one of two test providers:

• GL Assessment: Used in most of Kent, parts of Essex, and some Midlands grammar schools. Tests English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning — typically as separate papers.
• CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring): Used in Buckinghamshire, Birmingham, Wirral, and other areas. Tests verbal ability, non-verbal ability, and numerical ability in a combined format. CEM tests are designed to be less coachable, with unfamiliar question formats.

Some schools — particularly independent schools — set their own entrance exams or use ISEB Common Pre-Tests.

Key Regions

Kent

Kent has the most grammar schools in England. The Kent Test uses GL Assessment and is sat in September of Year 6. It tests English, maths, and reasoning. Results come in October, with a "deemed suitable" or "not suitable" outcome. Children who narrowly miss can appeal.

Buckinghamshire

Bucks uses the CEM-style test, sat in September of Year 6. The format is less predictable than GL — questions are mixed, and the test is intentionally difficult to prepare for using standard practice papers.

Birmingham & Midlands

The King Edward VI schools in Birmingham use their own consortium test. Sutton Coldfield Grammar, Bishop Vesey's, and others have separate arrangements. Check each school's website for the specific format.

Essex

Consortium grammar schools in Essex (Colchester, Chelmsford, Southend) use their own tests. Formats vary — some are GL-based, others are bespoke.

When to Start Preparing

The general consensus among experienced 11+ tutors is:

• Start of Year 4: Ensure maths and English fundamentals are solid. Begin familiarisation with reasoning question types.
• Year 4 to Year 5: Regular practice with verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Build speed and accuracy.
• Summer of Year 5: Intensive practice with test-format papers. Work on timing and exam technique.
• September of Year 6: Test month. By now, preparation should be winding down, not ramping up.

A Note on Realistic Expectations

Grammar school entry is competitive. In most areas, pass rates are between 20% and 30%. Tutoring improves a child's chances, but it doesn't guarantee a place. The most responsible approach is to prepare thoroughly while also having a strong Plan B — because the Plan B school might turn out to be excellent.