11+ English: the questions parents ask most, answered

Published 24 October 2026 by 11+ Texts

Is there one national 11+ exam?

No. Grammar schools select pupils by academic ability using an entrance test, but each local authority or school decides which test to use. GL Assessment, a major test provider, says that tests vary because local authorities or individual schools decide which subjects to test and the balance of question types, and may add their own questions.

Is English always part of the 11+?

Not always. GL Assessment says 11+ tests cover one or more of English, maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning, that most include verbal reasoning, and that English and maths tests are used less often. Where English is tested, GL says it is based mainly on curriculum content reached during the early part of Year 6. Strong reading also helps with verbal reasoning, so reading practice is useful either way.

What does an 11+ English test usually involve?

Commonly, a reading comprehension passage with questions, and sometimes spelling, punctuation and grammar. Some tests are multiple choice and others need written answers. The best guide is the official familiarisation material for your child's test.

What is GL Assessment?

GL Assessment is a test provider used by many grammar schools and areas. It offers free familiarisation materials, including for English, and sells practice papers. It notes that the exact timings and number of questions in your local test may differ from its materials. For questions about the format of your child's test, GL directs parents to the local grammar school or local authority.

What happened to the CEM 11+?

CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, part of Cambridge) stopped offering paper-based 11+ tests to state grammar schools, so areas that had used it moved to other providers or arrangements. Its computer-based entrance test for independent schools continued, and in 2025 CEM was renamed Cambridge Insight, with the test now called Cambridge Select Insight. If you see materials labelled “CEM-style”, check what your child's schools actually use today.

How are independent school exams different?

Independent schools set their own entrance assessments and dates, and the format differs from school to school. Some use a computer-based test from a provider, such as Cambridge Select Insight; others set their own papers. Check each school's admissions page for what it uses and when.

How long is the 11+ English test?

It varies by test, so we can't give a single figure. Use the familiarisation materials and the school or local authority information for the test your child will sit.

Can my child get extra time or other access arrangements?

Often, if there is a recognised need, but the process varies. In Kent, for example, parents of children with special educational needs or a disability are asked to talk to the primary school's SENCO before registering, and the school applies for access arrangements by the registration deadline. Ask your local authority or the school early. See also our guide to dyslexia and the 11+.

Do I still need to apply to the school after the test?

Yes. For state schools in England, the test and the application are separate. You apply through your local council by 31 October in Year 6, and offers arrive on 1 March.

What is the most useful thing I can do at home?

Read with your child regularly, including some classic books, ask “how do you know?” questions, and practise answering with evidence. Our step-by-step preparation guide and Year 5 to offer day timeline show how to plan it.