Preparing for an admission test, especially the 11+ exam, can feel overwhelming for both students and parents. The 11+ is often the first high-stakes academic assessment a child faces, determining admission to grammar schools and selective private schools in the UK. While it may seem daunting, with the right approach, support, and mindset, students can approach the exam with confidence.
In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies for 11+ exam preparation, understand the structure of an admission test, and provide practical tips to help your child succeed.
Understanding the 11+ Admission Test
The 11+ admission test generally assesses a student’s ability in four key areas: 
-
English
-
Mathematics
-
Verbal Reasoning
-
Non-verbal Reasoning
The exact format and subjects tested vary by region and school, so understanding the specific requirements of your target schools is crucial. For example, some grammar schools may emphasise English and Maths, while others include reasoning skills heavily.
Why Admission Tests Matter
The admission test is not just an academic hurdle; it’s a gateway to schools that can provide strong academic foundations, extracurricular opportunities, and a well-rounded education. Doing well on the test increases the chances of gaining a spot in highly competitive schools. That’s why early and targeted 11+ exam preparation is vital.
1. Start Early and Build a Strong Foundation
The best 11+ exam preparation begins at least a year in advance. Starting early allows your child to gradually build up skills without pressure. This approach is particularly important for core subjects like English and Maths, where understanding concepts deeply is more important than rote memorisation.
Introduce regular practice routines to develop familiarity with the question styles commonly found in an admission test. Allocate specific days for each subject and include time for mock exams.
2. Create a Study Schedule
A structured study plan is key to consistent 11+ exam preparation. Break down topics into manageable chunks and plan revisions over weeks or months. Don’t cram—steady, regular learning helps retain information and improve performance.
Include short, focused sessions with regular breaks. For example, 30-45 minutes of study followed by a 10-minute break can help maintain concentration and reduce fatigue.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
Through regular practice, you’ll begin to identify areas where your child struggles. Use this insight to personalise their study plan. Whether it’s long comprehension passages or complex Maths word problems, targeting weak spots is essential to improving overall performance in the admission test.
Work on exam techniques such as eliminating incorrect options, understanding question patterns, and managing time during each section of the paper.
4. Use Quality Resources
There are many 11+ exam preparation resources available—books, apps, and online tools. Choose resources that match the format of your child’s target school. Some of the most popular publishers include CGP, Bond, and GL Assessment.
In addition to commercial materials, consider free resources and practice papers offered by schools and educational websites. If you’re uncertain about what to use, consult with an experienced 11 Plus Tutor who can guide you toward the most suitable materials.
5. Take Mock Tests Regularly
Regular admission test mock exams help students become familiar with test conditions. They simulate real exam scenarios, which can reduce anxiety and improve time management. Start with untimed practice papers, and gradually introduce time constraints to match real test conditions.
Mock tests also provide valuable feedback. After each test, review answers with your child to identify common mistakes and areas for improvement.
6. Build Vocabulary and Reading Skills
A strong vocabulary is essential for success in the English and Verbal Reasoning sections of the 11+ admission test. Encourage your child to read a wide range of books, from classic novels to modern fiction and nonfiction.
Keep a vocabulary journal and regularly revise new words. Play word games like crosswords and Scrabble to make learning fun and engaging.
7. Master Mental Maths and Problem Solving
Mathematics in the 11+ admission test isn’t just about calculations—it’s about understanding how to apply concepts in real-world situations. Encourage your child to practice mental maths daily and work through word problems that require multi-step solutions.
Time management is especially important in the Maths section, so help your child develop techniques to quickly estimate, eliminate options, and move on when stuck.
8. Get Professional Help if Needed
Sometimes, even with the best intentions, parents may struggle to cover all aspects of 11+ exam preparation. Hiring a professional 11 Plus Tutor can offer structured lessons, targeted support, and expert insight into the admission test requirements. Tutors often have experience with specific school entry processes and can help tailor a study plan that suits your child’s learning style.
9. Encourage Confidence and Resilience
Confidence plays a huge role in how well a child performs under pressure. Reinforce the idea that the admission test is just one part of their academic journey. Help them stay calm by practising mindfulness, positive self-talk, and breathing techniques.
Celebrate small wins along the way—whether it’s mastering a tricky topic or improving a mock test score. These milestones build motivation and reduce stress.
10. Don’t Neglect Well-being
Balanced 11+ exam preparation includes downtime, exercise, and social interaction. Ensure your child has time to relax, pursue hobbies, and spend time with friends. A well-rested and happy student is more likely to perform well than one who is constantly stressed.
Good nutrition, regular sleep, and positive encouragement from parents make a noticeable difference in how a child handles academic pressure.
Conclusion
The 11+ admission test is a significant step for many children, but with strategic planning, regular practice, and emotional support, it can be a rewarding experience. Starting early, using quality resources, and getting professional guidance where needed can help build a strong foundation.
Remember, 11+ exam preparation is not just about passing a test—it’s about developing skills that will serve your child throughout their academic life. With the right mindset and approach, your child can not only tackle the admission test confidently but also enjoy the learning journey.
