For many parents, the 11+ can feel confusing. What exactly is the exam? Does every area use it? And does grammar school entry work differently in Kent and the South East to elsewhere in the country?
This guide has been created to explain how the 11+ works, where it is used, and what parents in Kent and the South East need to know.
Read on to find out more.
The 11+ is an entry exam used as a part of grammar school entry in several parts of England. It is designed to test a pupil’s academic potential and is typically taken in the September of Year 6. Grammar schools use the results of this examination to select their next Year 7 cohort.
Due to the selective and competitive nature of grammar school entrance, the 11+ is known to be a challenging exam. Grammar schools look for children working at an exceptionally high level, often at the very top of their year group, and even the brightest children can find the examination content demanding.
Many parents ask whether there is a universal 11+ exam. The answer is no. The content and format may vary depending on the grammar school and sometimes the county, however, most 11+ examinations include:
11+ English
11+ Maths
11+ Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning is a skill not taught in most schools and is a test of skill as opposed to taught knowledge. It tests a pupil’s ability to think critically and constructively and apply prior knowledge to solve problems.
Question types vary in Verbal Reasoning but may include:
11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning
Where verbal reasoning assesses vocabulary-based skills, non-verbal reasoning tests a child’s logic and spatial awareness using shapes, diagrams and pictures. In this test the focus shifts from word-based problem solving to the evaluation of a child’s ability to identify visual rules, patterns and sequences.
Question types may include:
In the 11+ exact content depends on the local authority and school, however, most 11+ examinations include the assessment of these 4 core components.
In Kent, the 11+ is commonly known as the Kent Test and is used as part of the admissions process for grammar schools across the county. Children usually sit the test at the beginning of Year 6, typically in September, before secondary school applications are submitted.
The Kent 11+ is designed to assess a child’s academic potential and readiness for grammar school education. Rather than focusing on memorisation, the test looks at a range of core skills and reasoning abilities.
Although the exact format can vary, the Kent Test generally assesses three key areas:
English
The English element may include reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Strong reading skills are particularly important, as children are often required to interpret texts and understand meaning under timed conditions.
Maths
The maths section focuses on numerical understanding, arithmetic and problem-solving. Questions are designed to assess both mathematical knowledge and the ability to apply skills logically.
Reasoning
The Kent 11+ also includes reasoning assessments, which may cover verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. These sections test how well children can identify patterns, solve problems and think critically, rather than relying on learned classroom knowledge alone.
When Do Children Register and Sit the Kent 11+?
Families usually register for the Kent Test during Year 5, with testing taking place in September of Year 6. Because registration windows and school admissions timelines can change slightly each year, parents should check local authority guidance well in advance to avoid missing key deadlines.
Many families begin thinking about preparation during Year 4 or Year 5, particularly if a child is aiming for a grammar school place.
Who Can Apply for the Kent 11+?
The Kent Test is available to:
Some grammar schools accept applications from families outside Kent, although entry requirements, oversubscription criteria and travel considerations may vary. It is always worth checking the admissions criteria for individual schools before applying.
Which Areas in the South East Use the 11+?
It’s important to be aware that not all areas and counties in the South East operate grammar schools. Below we have listed key areas known for their grammar school offering. These schools will use some form of 11+ entrance examination to assess aspiring pupils, however, it’s worth noting that each area may have differing admissions criteria and testing formats.
Kent
One of the largest grammar school systems in England.
Medway
Separate testing system to Kent.
Buckinghamshire
County-wide grammar school system.
Berkshire
Some selective schools use entrance tests.
Essex
Selective grammar schools in certain areas.
Surrey
Some grammar and selective independent schools.
London Boroughs
Some partially selective schools and grammar school options nearby.
No — the 11+ is only relevant for children applying to grammar schools or certain selective schools.
If your child is planning to attend a local comprehensive secondary school, they will usually not need to sit the 11+ exam at all. Most comprehensive schools do not use entrance tests as part of their admissions process.
For many families, secondary school applications happen without the need for any additional testing. The 11+ only becomes important if you are considering a grammar school place or a school with selective entry requirements.
If you are unsure whether your child needs to take the 11+, it is worth checking the admissions criteria for the schools you are considering. Schools and local authorities will usually explain clearly whether an entrance assessment is required.
Most importantly, parents should not feel pressured into pursuing the 11+ if it is not the right fit for their child. There are many excellent secondary school options, and attending a grammar school is just one pathway among many.
There is no single “perfect” time to start preparing for the 11+. Every child is different, and the right starting point often depends on their confidence, learning style and current academic strengths.
Some children benefit from an earlier introduction to 11+ skills, while others may need a shorter, more focused preparation period. A child who already enjoys reading and feels confident in maths may require less preparation than someone who finds timed questions or reasoning more challenging.
Many families begin thinking about 11+ preparation during Year 4 or Year 5, particularly if they are aiming for grammar school entry in competitive areas such as Kent. Starting gradually can help children build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
The summer before Year 6 is often an important period, as it gives children time to strengthen weaker areas, become familiar with question styles and build confidence before the exams in September. However, preparation does not need to mean hours of daily work. Short, consistent sessions are usually far more effective than intensive last-minute cramming. For further information and guidance about 11+ summer preparation, you can check out our article which provides detailed guidance and advice for parents wishing to help their child revise efficiently over the summer months.
Above all, 11+ preparation should feel supportive rather than stressful. The aim is to help children feel confident and familiar with the process, not pressured or anxious.
Is the 11+ difficult?
The 11+ can feel challenging for some children because it often includes unfamiliar question styles, timed sections and reasoning tasks that may not be covered in depth at school. However, “difficult” is relative — every child has different strengths and confidence levels.
The goal is not perfection, but helping children feel prepared, confident and familiar with the exam format.
Can children prepare for the 11+?
Yes — many children prepare for the 11+ through a combination of regular reading, maths practice, reasoning activities and familiarisation with question types.
Preparation does not have to be intensive to be effective. In many cases, consistent practice over time can help children feel more confident and reduce exam anxiety.
Are grammar schools free?
Yes — grammar schools are state-funded schools, meaning there are no tuition fees to attend. However, admission is selective and usually based on performance in the 11+ or a similar entrance assessment.
Some families also choose to apply for independent schools, which may have separate entrance exams and tuition fees.
What score do you need to pass the 11+?
There is no single national pass mark for the 11+. Scores and admissions criteria vary depending on the county, local authority or individual school.
For example, grammar school entry in Kent may differ from other areas in the South East. In some cases, meeting the required score does not automatically guarantee a place if a school is oversubscribed.
Parents should always check the admissions criteria for the schools they are interested in.
Can you appeal grammar school decisions?
In some situations, yes. Parents may be able to appeal if their child does not meet the required standard or is not offered a grammar school place.
Appeals processes vary depending on the school or local authority and often consider additional evidence, academic performance and individual circumstances. It is important to review the school’s admissions guidance carefully before beginning an appeal.
Final Thoughts
The 11+ can feel overwhelming at first, especially if grammar school admissions are new to your family. However, understanding how the process works is often the first step towards making informed and confident decisions for your child.
Whether you are just starting to explore grammar school options or thinking about preparation for the future, a calm and structured approach can make a real difference. With the right support, children can build confidence, strengthen key skills and become more familiar with the exam process over time.
If you are considering grammar school entry and would like guidance on 11+ preparation, structured support can help children feel more confident and better prepared ahead of the exams.
Aquinas offers both one-to-one and group tuition sessions for children preparing for the 11+. Led by experienced 11+ tutors, we specialise in providing a highly personalised service designed to help your child achieve their personal learning objectives and academic goals.
For further information about our approach to 11+ tuition you can visit our dedicated 11+ Page. If your child is preparing to sit the 11+ in September and you are looking for support this summer, you can learn more about our 11+ summer support here. Or, if you are ready to organise tuition sessions with Aquinas you can contact us via our enquiry form to arrange your free consultation call.