11 Plus Explained – What Every Parent Needs to Know

by Yum Yum Mama Team August 13, 2025

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Let’s Start With the Basics – What Is the 11 Plus?

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone would just get the 11 Plus explained simply,” you’re not alone. This entrance exam can feel confusing at first — especially when every area does things slightly differently.

The 11 Plus is a selective entrance exam used by grammar schools in parts of England to determine who gets a place. Children usually sit the exam at the start of Year 6 (aged 10 or 11). The test covers a mix of:

English
Maths
Verbal reasoning
Non-verbal reasoning

👉 New to the topic? Start here: Everything You Need to Know About the 11 Plus Exam

11 Plus Scores Explained

The results your child receives after the exam will usually be given as a standardised score. This takes into account not just how many questions they got right, but also their age.

So, what is a good 11 Plus score?

Most scoring systems go up to 140 or 141
A score of 121+ is often considered high enough for a grammar school place in many areas
Some schools set different thresholds based on number of applicants

👉 For a breakdown of what’s considered strong, see What Is a Good 11 Plus Score

11 Plus Explained for Grammar School Entry

Not all areas in the UK use the 11 Plus, but in places that still do (like Kent, Buckinghamshire, Bexley, Slough, and parts of Birmingham), it’s the main way to gain entry into a grammar school.

Some schools also run their own entrance papers. You may hear terms like “GL Assessment” or “CEM” — these are the exam boards that design and run the tests.

Check with your local authority or grammar school to find out:

What exam format they use
What subjects are included
When you need to register

👉 Not sure what’s coming up? This timeline can help: 11 Plus Dates: Your Family’s Timeline to Grammar School Success

What Percentage of Pupils Pass the 11 Plus?

This is a key concern for many parents — and the answer is: it depends.

In highly selective areas, 20–30% of pupils may pass
Some regions have higher or lower success rates based on the number of applicants and school places available

Don’t worry — passing isn't just about being the “top student.” With the right support and strategy, your child can be well-prepared.

👉 Looking for expert support? 11 Plus Tutor UK can help you find qualified tutors who understand your region’s format.

What Do 11 Plus Exam Questions Look Like?

Sample questions vary depending on the board and school, but here’s a general idea:

Verbal reasoning: Synonyms, codes, logic puzzles
Non-verbal reasoning: Pattern recognition using shapes
English: Comprehension and vocabulary
Maths: Word problems, arithmetic, logic

👉 Start practising early — Year 4 or 5 is ideal.
Check out: 11 Plus Tuition: How to Get Your Child Ready for the Test

When Will You Get the 11 Plus Results?

Results are typically released in October, about 4–6 weeks after the exam. Your child will receive:

Their standardised score
Whether they’ve met the threshold for the grammar school(s) they applied to

From there, you submit your school preferences, and places are allocated on National Offer Day (usually 1 March).

How You Can Support Your Child

You don’t need to be a tutor or have all the answers. Here’s what you can do:

Create a calm routine – 20 minutes a few times a week beats cramming.
Focus on vocabulary – especially for verbal reasoning.
👉 11 Plus Vocabulary for Children
Use free and paid resources – practice papers, puzzles, and apps.
Be encouraging – remind them it’s about effort, not perfection.

Bonus Tip: Choose the Right Grammar School

Not all grammar schools are the same. Some specialise in languages, others in STEM or the arts. Visit schools, read their admissions criteria, and consider your child’s strengths and interests.

👉 If you're in the North West, explore The Best Grammar Schools in Manchester