Stay ahead of the 11 Plus 2025 exam season with our complete guide to registration windows, test dates and key deadlines for Tiffin School, Sutton SET and GL Assessment.
Learn what makes the 11 Plus exam in London different, including school types, exam boards, and strategies to help your child succeed.
Introduction
If you’re a parent preparing your child for the 11 Plus exam in London, you’ve likely discovered how different and competitive the process can be compared to other regions. With dozens of selective schools, varying exam boards, and intense competition, preparation in London requires a tailored and informed approach.
This guide explains what sets the London 11 Plus exam apart and how you can effectively support your child’s preparation for success.
What Makes the 11 Plus Exam in London Different?
1. A Complex Network of Exam Boards
Unlike other areas with a single standard exam board, London schools use a mix of exam formats. Depending on the borough or school group, your child may encounter:
- GL Assessment – Common in Barnet and Redbridge
- SET (Selective Eligibility Test) – Used in Sutton grammar schools like Wallington, Wilson’s, and Nonsuch
- School-specific exams – Used by independent schools such as City of London School or St Paul’s Girls’ School
Useful link: GL Assessment official website
Related post: Understanding the GL Assessment: A Complete Guide for Parents and Pupils
2. Intense Competition for Limited Spaces
Top London grammar schools are extremely oversubscribed, with some receiving 10–15 applications per place. Examples include:
- The Tiffin Schools
- Henrietta Barnett School
- Queen Elizabeth’s School
- Wilson’s and Nonsuch High School
- Sutton Grammar School
Each school may have its own catchment area rules, two-stage exams, and priority systems, making the application process even more competitive.
3. Varied Application Processes and Deadlines
Parents often need to navigate:
- Local authority registrations
- School-specific application portals
- Early registration deadlines (some close in June or July)
This means preparation must start well in advance, often from Year 4 or earlier, to meet all requirements.
See The Best Time to Start 11 Plus Exam Preparation
How to Prepare for London 11 Plus Exam
1. Research Each School’s Admission Criteria
Every school in London may have slightly different admission rules, including residency, sibling preference, and scoring systems.
👉 Start by visiting the official school websites and reading their admission policies carefully.
Create a spreadsheet with key deadlines, test dates, and subjects tested for each school your child is targeting.
2. Prepare According to the Right Exam Board
Tailor your child’s preparation to the specific exam board. For example:
- GL Assessment focuses on multiple-choice questions in:
- English
- Maths
- Verbal Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
- SET exams, such as Sutton Grammar school, usually include:
- English comprehension and writing
- Maths (sometimes with unusual formats)
- Independent schools may include:
- Creative writing
- Interviews
- Cognitive ability tests (CAT)
3. Use Mock Exams Strategically
Mock exams are vital to simulate the pressure and format of real tests. The Mock Exam Centre offers:
- Tests that reflect the exact structure of London-area exams
- Diagnostic feedback to identify strengths and weaknesses
- Progress tracking to improve scores over time
Test one of our realistic mock exams clicking here.
4. Build a Balanced Study Routine
Avoid burnout by mixing timed practice with focused revision. Here’s a weekly structure suggestion:
- 2–3 days of topic-based revision (e.g., fractions or comprehension)
- 1 day for full timed papers
- 1 day review and feedback
- 1 day for games or light revision (e.g., vocabulary cards)
This balanced approach helps reduce anxiety and builds long-term retention.
5. Prepare Emotionally Too
The pressure of London’s 11 Plus can lead to anxiety. Support your child emotionally with:
- Encouragement over perfectionism
- Mindfulness activities or journaling
- Positive feedback after mocks
Some parents also consult educational psychologists or tutors who understand high-pressure academic environments.
Final Tips for 11 Plus Exams in London Parents
- Register early – Some schools close registration before the summer term ends.
- Don’t assume every grammar school has the same rules – read each policy in detail.
- Consider distance – Some schools prioritise local applicants.
- Use trusted resources – Avoid random worksheets; use materials aligned with real exams.
Conclusion
The 11 Plus exam in London requires careful planning, tailored preparation, and emotional support. With multiple exam boards, intense competition, and logistical challenges, starting early and staying organised makes all the difference.
At the Mock Exam Centre, we help you navigate the London 11 Plus Exam journey with accurate mock exams, strategic study plans, and ongoing support for your child’s success.
Want to see how your child would perform on a real exam?
Try one of our free realistic mock exams
