How Much is the 11 Plus Exam? (Do You Have to Pay?)

Going through grammar school in the UK usually means dealing with the 11 Plus exam. But the exam can be a bit of a puzzle, including figuring out the money part. 

Do you have to pay to take the 11 Plus exam?

We’ll break down the money side of getting ready for the exam and if there’s a price tag on this big step in your child’s secondary school journey.

What Is the 11 Plus Exam?

The 11 Plus exam is a selective entrance exam used in the United Kingdom for selecting students for admission to state-funded secondary schools, such as grammar schools and some private or independent schools. 

Its primary purpose is to identify academically gifted children and allocate them to selective schools that offer a more academically focused curriculum. They are taken by students in their last year of primary school, usually at the age of 10 or 11. 

The content and format of the 11 Plus exam can vary depending on the region or exam board administering the test. But, the exam generally consists of multiple-choice questions and covers subjects like English, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. 

Do note that not all areas in the UK use the 11 Plus exam, and different regions may have their own entrance exams or selection processes for secondary education.

How Much Does It Cost to Pass the 11 Plus Exam?

As a selective entrance exam for grammar schools, which are state-funded institutions, there are no fees associated with the examination. 

Whilst the 11 Plus exam itself is free to take, be aware that competition for places in grammar schools can be intense. With that, some parents choose to enrol their primary school children in private tutoring or coaching programs to help them prepare for the grammar school 11 Plus exam. 

So, the cost of 11+ tuition can vary significantly based on the reputation of the tutoring centre, the duration of the tuition, or any other approach taken by parents or guardians. It can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds.

Some potential costs include:

Tuition Fee

Private tutors may charge hourly rates, and the overall cost will depend on the frequency and duration of the sessions.

Study Materials

Purchasing study materials, practice exams, past paper samples, and resources designed specifically for the 11 Plus exam may incur additional costs. This can also include textbooks, workbooks, and online resources.

Mock Exams

Some families choose to enrol their children in mock exam sessions, which simulate the conditions of the actual 11 Plus Exam. These mock exams are often organized by tutoring centres or educational organizations, and there may be fees associated with participation.

And whilst, some parents opt for private tuition, many other students also prepare for the 11 Plus through self-study or with the help of free resources available online and in libraries.

Can You Pass 11 Plus Without Tuition?

Students can pass the 11 Plus exam without formal tuition. Many students successfully prepare for the exam through self-study, using available resources such as library books, online materials, and practice exams. 

Parents and guardians can play an active role in supporting their primary school children’s preparation by creating a structured study plan, providing necessary resources, and offering encouragement.

Also, some schools offer free or subsidized support for 11 Plus preparation, such as after-school study sessions or workshops. Check with your local education authorities to explore these available resources.

Success in the 11 Plus often depends on a combination of a student’s natural aptitude, their primary education, and the effort they put into independent study. Whilst tuition can be beneficial for other students, it is not a requirement for success in the 11 Plus exam.

Is It Worth Taking the 11 Plus Exam?

There are several things to consider whether taking the 11 Plus exam is worthwhile.

If a student thrives in an academically challenging environment and enjoys a more rigorous curriculum, an 11 Plus exam for grammar school may be a suitable option.

So, if there is a reputable grammar school with programs aligning with the student’s interests and goals, it may be worth taking to 11 Plus exam to secure a place in it. They will enjoy more academic subjects and a high standard of education.

Now, the 11 Plus exam preparation process may require dedication from both students and parents. If they’re willing to invest time, effort, and resources in preparing for the exam, it may be an indication of the family’s commitment to academic success.

But, the 11 Plus exam can also be stressful for students due to its competitive nature. Evaluate whether the potential benefits of attending a grammar school outweigh the stress associated with the 11 Plus exam.

What Are Grammar Schools?

A grammar school is a type of secondary school in the United Kingdom that traditionally places a strong emphasis on academic achievement and rigorous educational standards. 

These schools have a long history, dating back to medieval times, but the modern concept of a grammar school emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. The term “grammar” in this context refers to the Latin and Greek roots of the word, emphasizing a focus on classical languages and literature.

Grammar schools historically used the selective entrance exam or the 11 Plus exam as part of the selection process. Students who performed well in the exam were offered places in these prestigious institutions.

Much more than their counterparts in comprehensive schools, grammar school students enjoy academic subjects and a curriculum that prepares them for university education. The goal is to provide them with a more challenging and intellectually stimulating education.

Do You Have to Pay for Grammar School UK?

Unlike independent and private schools, grammar schools do not charge tuition fees. State grammar schools are part of the public education system and receive government funding. Families do not have to pay tuition fees for their children to attend these institutions.

However, there may be other associated costs, such as school uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities. Some grammar schools may also request voluntary contributions from parents to support additional resources or activities.

These costs are usually outlined by the individual school, and financial assistance or subsidies may be available for families with limited financial means. Again, check with the specific grammar school for details on any associated costs and available support mechanisms.

It’s also important to distinguish between state-funded and private grammar schools. Private grammar schools operate independently and charge tuition fees. Families interested in these private institutions should inquire about the specific costs and financial policies associated with the school.