The 11 Plus exam (often written as 11+) is an entrance assessment taken by pupils in their final year of primary school who wish to apply for a grammar school place.
Although the exam is commonly called the “11 Plus”, most pupils are actually 10 years old when they sit the test, as it is taken during Year 6.
The name comes from the fact that successful candidates usually join grammar schools at age 11, when they start secondary education.
Across England, there are currently around 164 grammar schools that use selective entry. These schools typically admit students based on performance in the 11+ examination, which is designed to assess academic potential.
The 11+ system was officially removed in Northern Ireland in 2008, but many former grammar schools still use their own academic selection tests to determine admission. This approach has remained a subject of debate in education policy.
The level of competition for grammar school places can vary widely depending on the location.
Some highly sought-after schools may receive thousands of applications for fewer than 200 available places.
For example, grammar schools in areas such as Kingston and Sutton in South West London are known for being extremely competitive.
In these highly selective areas, only a small percentage of applicants gain admission.
However, in counties where grammar schools are still a central part of the education system—such as Buckinghamshire—a larger proportion of pupils qualify each year.
The 11+ exam may include several different types of assessments designed to evaluate a child’s reasoning, problem-solving ability, and academic skills.
The exact format of the 11 Plus exam varies across the UK, as different regions and grammar schools may use different exam boards and test structures.
For families looking for 11+ preparation in London, understanding the specific requirements of your local grammar schools is an important step in helping your child succeed.
