First, the 11 Plus is not universal
Most state secondary schools in England are non-selective. Admission is based on the school’s published criteria, not an academic entrance test. “Alternative assessment” therefore sometimes means no academic assessment at all.
Independent schools, selective state schools and in-year admissions can use different systems.
1. Comprehensive school admissions criteria
For most state schools, places are allocated through criteria such as looked-after status, siblings, catchment, distance or faith criteria where applicable. The CAF is the key application rather than an entrance exam.
See our CAF guide here.
2. ISEB Pre-Tests
Some independent schools use the ISEB Pre-Tests as part of their admissions process. These computer-based assessments can cover verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English and Maths.
School-specific requirements matter because the test may be only one part of selection.
3. Common Entrance
Common Entrance examinations are used by some independent schools, particularly at older entry points. They should not be confused with a local-authority 11 Plus.
The subjects and role of the exam depend on the school.
4. School-written entrance examinations
Many independent schools write their own Maths, English, reasoning or essay papers. A child may therefore need preparation tailored to that school rather than a generic 11 Plus package.
5. Cognitive Ability Tests
CATs are used in many schools for educational assessment and setting. Some admissions processes may consider cognitive assessment data, but CATs used inside a school are not automatically equivalent to a grammar-school entrance test.
6. Interviews, group tasks and school reports
Independent schools may combine written assessment with interviews, group activities, references or reports. These can assess communication, curiosity, suitability and wider interests as well as academic attainment.
7. In-year or occasional-place tests
Selective schools may run separate tests for vacancies in Year 8, Year 9 or later. These are not usually a resit of the original Year 7 11 Plus and may cover different material.
Our resit guide explains the distinction.
Which assessment should your child prepare for?
Start with the exact school and entry year. Download the current admissions policy, note every test component and deadline, and use official familiarisation papers where available. Avoid preparing for an assessment just because another school nearby uses it.
