Your comprehensive Guide to the 11+ Exams in 2025

11 Plus Exam UK 2025: When to Start, How to Prepare & What to Expect

The 11 Plus Exam is a major step in securing a place at a grammar school or selective independent school in the UK. Whether you’re a parent navigating the process for the first time or looking for a clearer path forward, this guide covers everything you need to know about the 11 Plus entrance exam in 2025.

What Is the 11 Plus Exam in the UK?

The 11 Plus exam is a selective test used by UK grammar schools and some private schools to determine Year 7 admissions. Children usually take it in Year 6, when they are 10 or 11 years old, and it assesses their academic ability across different subjects.

The exam is not the same everywhere. It varies depending on the school or region, and different exam boards, such as GL Assessment or CEM, set the papers. Because of this, it is important to check which version your child will take so you can help them prepare properly.

When is the 11 Plus exam in 2025?

Most 11+ exams in 2025 will be held in early September, though exact dates depend on the school and local authority. Registration typically opens between April and June 2025.

Parents should check their target schools’ or local councils’ websites to avoid missing out on application deadlines. Mark these dates early; late entries are usually not accepted!

When Should You Start Preparing for the 11 Plus?

Are you wondering when to begin 11+ tuition or self-study? The golden rule is to start early and keep it stress-free.

• Year 3: Keep it light. Focus on reading widely, expanding vocabulary, and building strong foundations in math. Consider light support through Key Stage 2 SATs Programme to reinforce core skills.
• Year 4: Introduce gentle, structured prep; think puzzles, problem-solving, and familiarizing your child with 11+ question styles.
• Year 5: Shift gears. Regular practice papers, timed tests, and mock exams become essential to build speed and confidence.

The ideal starting point? Year 4 for most children, but earlier if they need extra time to develop core skills. Remember, steady, consistent progress beats last-minute cramming every time.

What Subjects Are Covered in the 11+?

The 11 Plus subjects usually include

• English: Tests reading comprehension, spelling, grammar, and vocabulary. Students need to understand passages, spot errors, and use words correctly. Extra support can come from GCSE English Tuition for advanced learners.
• Math: Focuses on arithmetic, word problems, and logic-based questions. It checks both basic skills and problem-solving ability.
• Verbal reasoning involves recognizing patterns and relationships in words and letters. It measures logical thinking using language.
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Uses shapes and diagrams to test visual and spatial reasoning. Students solve puzzles by identifying patterns and sequences.
• Science (for some schools): Some regions may include science, especially for independent schools. Students benefit from early Science GCSE Tuition to prepare for more advanced questions.

it generally covers, Basic biology, chemistry, and physics concepts from KS2, Scientific vocabulary and methods, Simple experiments and observations

Some regions may include 11 Plus Science, particularly for independent schools. If your target school requires it, 11 Plus entrance science tuition could give your child an edge.

How Long Is the 11 Plus Exam & How Many Questions Are There?

The 11 Plus exam is typically divided into sections that last 45 to 60 minutes each, depending on the subject and exam board.

On average:

• Number of questions: Around 40–80 per section.
• Most questions are multiple choice.

Standardized scores are used to account for age and difficulty. If you’re tracking progress, consult an 11 Plus standardized scores table to understand how your child is doing compared to national averages.

How Hard Is the 11 Plus & What Makes It Challenging?

Many parents ask, How hard is 11+? The truth is, it’s challenging: not just academically, but emotionally too.

• Time Pressure: Students must answer a large number of questions quickly, leaving little time to think deeply about each one.
• Advanced Content: The tests often include complex vocabulary, tricky logic problems, and high-level reasoning skills not always covered in regular school lessons.
• High Competition: With many students aiming for limited spots in top schools, only the highest scorers are offered places, raising the pressure to perform well.

That’s why professional guidance through dedicated 11+ Entrance Exams tuition can be invaluable.

How to Prepare for the 11 Plus: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a simple roadmap to ace your 11+ exam preparation in the UK:

1. Assess: Begin with a baseline test to identify your child’s current strengths and weaknesses. This helps tailor the preparation effectively.
2. Plan: Develop a realistic study schedule that includes study sessions, tuition (if needed), breaks, and time for relaxation.
3. Learn: Use targeted resources like books, apps, and online platforms specifically designed for 11 Plus subjects to build foundational knowledge.
4. Practice: Regularly complete past papers and practice questions under timed conditions to build speed and confidence.
5. Review: Carefully go through any mistakes, adjust learning strategies, and focus on weaker areas for improvement.
6. Mock Exams: Take full-length mock tests to experience exam conditions, reduce anxiety, and track progress.
7. Final Prep: In the last week, ease off intense studying and focus on light revision to keep stress levels low and boost confidence.

How to Pass the 11 Plus Exam: Practical Tips

Looking to boost your chances of success in the 11 Plus? These tips can make a real difference:

• Be consistent: Short, daily study sessions (20–30 minutes) are more effective than last-minute cramming.
• Make learning fun: Use word games, puzzles, and educational apps to keep things engaging.
• Practice with mock exams: Aim for at least three full-length mock tests to build stamina and familiarity with the format.
• Target weak spots: Focus more on areas where your child struggles instead of repeating what they already know well.
• Stay positive: A confident mindset can greatly improve performance on test day.

A well-structured revision plan and support from tutors or parents can give students the edge they need to succeed.