Introduction
The three main exam boards for 11 Plus grammar and independent school entrance exams are GL Assessment (Granada Learning), CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring), and ISEB (Independent Schools Examination Board). Recent changes, including technological advances and shifts in testing preferences, have reshaped the use of these boards.
For example, CEM transitioned from paper-based tests to online assessments in 2023. Similarly, independent schools increasingly favour the ISEB Pre-Test for its adaptive online format. GL remains popular for paper-based grammar school exams. Additionally, some grammar schools and many independent schools write and administer their own custom entrance tests.
Knowing which exam board your target school uses—or whether they create their own bespoke tests—is crucial, as the boards and custom tests differ in format, content, and assessment focus.
Key differences between GL, CEM and ISEB
| GL Assessment | CEM | ISEB |
|---|---|---|
| When | ||
| September of Year 6 | Autumn term of Year 6 | November, December and January of Year 6 |
| Subjects | ||
| English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. | Numerical, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Ability (aligned with Key Stage 2). | English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. |
| Mainly Used For | ||
| Grammar school entrance exams. | Independent school entrance exams (now primarily online). | Independent school entrance exams. |
| Exam Style | ||
| Paper-based; multiple choice. | Online; multiple choice, timed sections, more questions than can be completed. | Adaptive online tests. Questions adjust in difficulty based on performance. |
| Timings | ||
| Varies depending on the school or area | One test lasting about an hour with shorter timed sections | English: 40 mins, Maths: 40 mins, Verbal: 25 mins, Non-Verbal: 30 mins. |
What is GL Assessment?
GL remains the most widely used board for grammar school exams in the UK, with schools in Birmingham, Buckinghamshire, Kent, and other areas relying on its assessments. These exams are based on the national curriculum for Years 5 and 6.
Subjects: English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Structure: GL typically uses separate papers for each subject.
Answer Format: multiple choice.
Example Timings:
English: 50 minutes (49-56 questions).
Maths: 50 minutes (50 questions).
Verbal Reasoning: 60 minutes (80 questions).
Non-Verbal Reasoning: 60 minutes (80 questions).
Note: schools may customise their assessments. Always verify requirements with your target school.
What is CEM?
CEM exams transitioned to online-only formats in 2023, a significant change that impacts their adoption by schools.
Subjects: Verbal Reasoning (English and verbal skills combined) and Numerical Reasoning (Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning).
Structure:
One online test of about 60 minutes, divided into timed sections (6-12 minutes per section).
Students cannot revisit earlier sections.
Content Highlights:
Verbal Reasoning includes reading comprehension but excludes SPaG (Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar).
Numerical Reasoning tests logic and math skills aligned with Years 5 and 6.
Answer Format: multiple choice, online.
Adoption Trends: many schools have switched to GL due to this transition, though some continue with CEM Select, the online adaptive version.
What is ISEB?
ISEB’s Common Pre-Test remains the preferred option for over 70 independent schools, with additional schools considering ISEB alongside CEM Select for admissions.
Subjects: English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Structure: four separate online tests totalling 2 hours and 15 minutes:
English and Maths: 40 minutes each.
Verbal Reasoning: 25 minutes.
Non-Verbal Reasoning: 30 minutes.
Adaptive Format: questions adjust based on the student’s responses, offering a personalised assessment experience.
Answer Format: multiple choice.
Preparation Resources: the ISEB Test Walkthrough helps students familiarise themselves with the format.
Custom Tests by Grammar and Independent Schools
An increasing number of grammar schools and many independent schools write their own entrance exams. These custom tests often blend elements from multiple exam boards or focus on specific skills tailored to the school’s curriculum and expectations.
-
Grammar Schools: some schools now use bespoke tests to better evaluate candidates based on localised academic standards.
-
Independent Schools: many independent schools prefer custom tests to align with their unique admission requirements and curricula. These tests may incorporate traditional subjects like English and Maths while adding creative writing, problem-solving, or critical thinking components.
-
Format and Timing: custom tests vary widely. Some mirror GL or ISEB formats, while others introduce entirely unique question styles. Confirm details directly with the target school.
How to prepare for the 11+
Examberry Year 4 and Year 5 courses are structured to prepare students for all exam types; they include excellent course material, practice tests, and teach exam time management and good exam technique.
The Year 6 course, which runs from September to December, is geared towards second stage grammar school exams and the independent sector.
For those who have not been able to attend our full 37 week courses we offer Year 4 Summer Intensive and Year 5 Summer Intensive 2 week courses.
