11+ Guide

What is the 11+ Exam?

The 11+ Exam is the entrance exam used by many grammar schools across England. This guide explains everything parents need to know about the GL Assessment 11+ exam — where it is used, the subjects tested, the syllabus, and tips to prepare.

Whether your child is starting preparation or looking for mock tests, this page gives all the essential information in one place.

  • Entrance exam for many grammar schools in the UK
  • Designed for children aged 10–11
  • Tests skills in English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
  • Helps schools select students for grammar school admission
  • Taken in Year 6 (sometimes Year 5 in early-entry schools)
  • Can include both in-school and external GL Assessment papers
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11+ Mock Exams

Where GL Assessment Is Used

The GL Assessment is widely used by grammar schools in different counties. The subjects tested may vary slightly by school and year, so always confirm with the school.
Essex
Colchester Royal Grammar, King Edward
VR | NVR | Maths
Kent
Kent Grammar Schools
English | Maths | VR
Redbridge
Ilford County High, Woodford County
English | NVR | VR
Buckinghamshire
All Bucks Grammar Schools
VR | Maths
Harrow
Harrow School, Nower Hill
VR | NVR | Maths
Lincolnshire
Lincolnshire Grammar Schools
VR | NVR | Maths
Medway
Medway Grammar Schools
English | Maths | VR
Birmingham (select schools)
Handsworth, Camp Hill
VR | NVR | Maths
Wiltshire
South Wilts Grammar Schools
VR | NVR | Maths
Gloucestershire
Pate’s, Denmark Road
VR | NVR | Maths
North Yorkshire
Ripon Grammar School
VR | NVR | Maths
Trafford (some schools)
Sale Grammar
VR | Maths
  • Note:Exact subject combinations vary by school and year. Always confirm with the school.

GL Assessment Syllabus

The GL Assessment tests Verbal Reasoning (VR), Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR), Mathematics, and sometimes English. Below is a detailed breakdown.
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Topic Area Skills Tested
Vocabulary Synonyms, antonyms
Word relationships Analogies, odd-one-out
Codes Letter and number coding
Sequences Alphabetical and logical sequences
Comprehension Short passages and cloze exercises
Logic Following instructions, deductions
Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)
Topic Area Skills Tested
Shape sequences Identifying patterns
Similarities & differences Odd shape out
Transformations Rotation, reflection
Symmetry Lines and axes
2D shapes Pattern completion
Mathematics
Topic Area Skills Tested
Number Place value, four operations
Fractions & Decimals Conversion, operations
Percentages Simple and compound problems
Ratio & Proportion Basic applications
Algebra Simple equations, sequences
Geometry Angles, shapes, symmetry
Measures Time, length, area, volume
Data Handling Tables, charts, averages
Word Problems Multi-step reasoning
English (Where Applicable)
Topic Area Skills Tested
Reading comprehension Inference, vocabulary
Grammar Tenses, clauses, sentence structure
Punctuation Apostrophes, commas, speech marks
Spelling Age-appropriate vocabulary
Vocabulary Word meanings in context

How to Prepare for GL Assessment

  1. Practice Regularly: Daily practice with VR, NVR, Maths, and English questions helps children get familiar with the format.

  2. Timed Mocks: Work under time pressure to build speed and accuracy.

  3. Exam Technique: Teach children how to:

    • Eliminate wrong answers

    • Recognize patterns quickly

    • Manage time efficiently

  4. Use Mock Tests: Mock exams that follow the GL Assessment syllabus help identify strengths and weaknesses.

  5. Parental Support: Encourage a calm, positive environment; avoid last-minute cramming.

GL papers reward technique and speed as much as knowledge.

11+ Mock Exams Parent

GL Assessment Paper Style

Feature Description
Question Format Multiple choice
Answer Method Separate answer sheet
Timing Usually 45–60 minutes per paper
Difficulty Gradually increases
Marking Machine-marked
Standardisation Age-standardised scores
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