Understanding 11+ ExamBoards
Comprehensive guide to CEM, GL Assessment, CSSE, and SET exam boards. Learn about formats, subjects, and preparation strategies for each board.
Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring
Cambridge-based exam authority responsible for producing exam papers for various disciplines including 11 plus exams or secondary transfer tests. CEM is one of the popular 11+ exam boards.
Duration
2 papers of 45 minutes each
Format
Mix of multiple-choice and standard format questions
Subjects
Curriculum Breakdown
50%
Verbal
20%
Non-Verbal
30%
Numerical
English Topics
• Comprehension
• Cloze passages
• Reading
• Spelling
• Word choices
Verbal Reasoning Topics
• Spotting letter sequences
• Cracking codes based on letters and numbers
• Following written instructions
• Spotting words within words
• Finding a letter to complete two other words
Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics
• Rotation
• Codebreaking
• Missing Square
• Missing sequence
• Like shapes identification
• Nets
• Most Like
• Spatial Recognition
Numerical Reasoning
Covers math skills tested in GL exam including numbers, algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry, measurements, statistics, train timetables, and logical questions.
Key Features
- Strong emphasis on vocabulary skills
- Problem-solving skills focus
- Speed and time management critical
- Challenging time format
- Sections with time recommendations
- Approximately 50% verbal reasoning content
Challenges
Very challenging for pupils to complete the paper in the given time
Granada Learning Assessment
Granada Learning (GL) is an 11+ exam board that's been conducting premium quality 11 plus school entrance exams for more than two decades. Previously known as National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), but in 2001 the exam board was bought by Granada learning and became part of it.
Duration
45-50 minutes per paper
Format
Multiple-choice format with some standard format for math tests and verbal reasoning
Subjects
Key Features
- Multiple-choice format
- Sufficient time allocation
- Comprehensive subject coverage
- Flexible subject combinations
- Schools can choose combination of subjects
- Growing popularity among schools
Advantages
Pupils get sufficient time to answer each question
Comparison
GL assessment can be prepared in a relatively shorter duration compared to CEM which requires long term focus
Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex
Essex and Southend grammar school admissions are administered by CSSE (Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex) 11+ exam board. Year 7 admissions in the CSSE are based on pupil performance in the 11 plus exam. To ensure pupils only sit one exam to cover all the schools on their performance form.
Duration
2 papers of 60 minutes each
Format
Both multiple-choice questions and standard format questions
Subjects
Pass Mark
303 minimum
Registration
Complete CAF and supplementary information form from any school that offers selective places or CSSE
Participating Schools
• King Edward VI Grammar School
• Colchester County High School for Girls
• Colchester Royal Grammar School
+ 7 more schools
Key Features
- Mix of multiple-choice and standard format
- Single exam for all consortium schools
- Standardized admission criteria
- Comprehensive coverage
- Past exam papers available for purchase
Preparation Advice
Practising some past papers when you get closer to the exam is a good way to measure your strengths and weaknesses
Selective Eligibility Test
The SET or selective eligibility test is a first stage 11 plus entrance test commonly used by six schools in the London Borough of Sutton. The test contains two multiple-choice papers of Maths and English for 45 minutes each, and there is a break given between these two papers.
Duration
2 papers of 45 minutes each
Format
Multiple-choice style papers only
Subjects
Registration
Complete an online registration form before the deadline from the websites of participating schools
Participating Schools
• Nonsuch High School for Girls
• Sutton Grammar School for Boys
• Wallington County Grammar School
+ 3 more schools
Key Features
- Multiple-choice format only
- No verbal or non-verbal reasoning
- Based on Key Stage 2 curriculum
- Separate answer sheets provided
- Break given between papers
- Some schools have further stage testing in October
Preparation Advice
To prepare for these tests and make your child confident, you can encourage them to solve past papers and take online mock exams. Practice papers are good tools for any student to prepare for 11 plus exams.
General 11+ Exam Advice
Essential guidance for all 11+ exam boards and preparation strategies.
Preparation Tips for All Exam Boards
Essential strategies to help your child excel in any 11+ exam board format.
Ready to Start Your 11+ Journey?
Access comprehensive practice tests and resources for all major exam boards to ensure your child's success.