GL 11+ Exam Format – A Complete Guide for Parents

As you prepare your child for grammar school entry, understanding the format of the 11+ exam they’ll take is vital. Many grammar schools across the UK use the GL Assessment 11+, a popular test designed to measure children’s academic potential and suitability for selective secondary education.

In this parent-friendly guide, we'll clearly explain what the GL 11+ exam covers, describe its structure, outline what to expect on exam day, and offer practical preparation tips. We'll also discuss how Brilliant Tutors can support your child through their preparation journey.

What is the GL 11+ Exam?

The GL Assessment 11+ is an established examination provider widely used by selective grammar schools and independent schools in the UK. It tests pupils’ abilities in English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.

The exact subjects tested vary by region and school, but generally, the GL exam is curriculum-focused, ensuring fairness and clarity for all children.

Subjects and Question Types in the GL 11+ Exam

The GL 11+ exam typically covers four main areas, but schools can select which subjects they test. These subjects include:

1. English

• Reading Comprehension: Pupils read texts and answer multiple-choice or short written questions.

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Questions test students’ understanding of grammar rules and their vocabulary range, including synonyms and antonyms.

2. Maths

• Aligned with the UK’s Key Stage 2 curriculum (up to early Year 6 level).

• Topics include arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, measurement, geometry, algebra basics, and word problems.

• Usually multiple-choice format but sometimes includes written answers.

3. Verbal Reasoning

• Tests language-based logic, vocabulary knowledge, and problem-solving using words.

• Question types include code breaking, word relationships, missing words, and sequences.

4. Non-Verbal Reasoning

• Assesses logical thinking and pattern recognition using images and shapes.

• Typical questions involve sequences, odd-one-out, rotation, reflection, and spatial awareness.

It’s important to confirm directly with your chosen grammar school or local authority exactly which of these subjects will feature in their exam.

GL 11+ Exam Structure and Timing

• Each subject typically has its own paper.

• Papers usually last between 45 and 60 minutes each.

• The exam format is generally multiple-choice, where answers are marked clearly on a separate answer sheet.

• Some schools use mixed question types, including both multiple-choice and written-response formats.

• The exam is usually held early in Year 6 (September or October).

What to Expect on Exam Day

Knowing what the test day entails can ease both your child’s nerves and your own. Here's a quick summary:

• Test Environment: Exams typically take place at grammar schools or designated testing centres in quiet, supervised conditions.

• Recorded Instructions: Instructions are often provided via recorded audio to ensure consistency and fairness.

• Answer Sheets: Children must mark answers carefully on provided answer sheets by shading the correct response clearly.

• Breaks: Brief breaks are usually provided between different subject papers.

• Age-standardised scoring: Marks are adjusted based on your child’s age to ensure fairness across candidates.

Practical Preparation Tips for the GL 11+ Exam

Helping your child prepare can make a significant difference. Here are useful strategies:

• Check Specific Requirements: Confirm exactly which subjects your child’s chosen schools test.

• Build Core English and Maths Skills: Ensure they have a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, arithmetic, and reasoning skills.

• Practice Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning: Regular practice is crucial as these skills are typically not covered in standard school curricula.

• Timed Practice: Familiarise your child with answering questions under timed conditions to build effective exam technique.

• Mock Exams: Regularly completing mock tests helps reduce anxiety and improves familiarity with the format.

• Encourage Reading: Regular reading enhances vocabulary, comprehension, and inference skills naturally and effectively.

• Stay Positive: Maintain a balanced approach to preparation, celebrating small successes to build your child's confidence.

How Brilliant Tutors Supports GL 11+ Exam Preparation

At Brilliant Tutors, we specialise in helping students prepare effectively and confidently for the GL 11+ exam. Here's how we provide targeted support:

• Personalised Tuition: Tailored one-to-one or small group sessions covering English, maths, verbal, and non-verbal reasoning.

• Comprehensive Familiarisation: Our tutors use realistic GL-style practice questions and mock tests, making students comfortable with exam expectations.

• Expert Reasoning Skills Coaching: We teach reasoning systematically, simplifying tricky verbal and non-verbal questions.

• Regular Feedback: Parents are kept informed of progress and areas for development.

• Exam-Day Strategies: We provide children with practical strategies to manage exam-day nerves and perform at their best.

• Proven Success Record: Many students have successfully gained places at selective grammar schools after preparing with us.

Final Thoughts

The GL 11+ exam is designed to assess a child's ability in core academic and reasoning areas fairly and effectively. With the right preparation and guidance, your child can approach this important exam with confidence and optimism.

At Brilliant Tutors, we believe every child deserves the best chance at success. We're committed to supporting your family at every step, ensuring the journey to the 11+ is manageable, positive, and rewarding.

For further advice or support with your child’s GL 11+ preparation, please feel free to get in touch—we're here to help.

Good luck, and remember: thorough preparation and positive support can make all the difference!