11+ Exam London: GL Assessment, CEM, ISEB
- Suratna Solutions
- Oct 25, 2025
- 3 min read
If you’re searching for “11+ exam London”, you’re not alone. This crucial milestone opens doors to over 70 grammar and independent schools across the capital. Navigating the 11plus exam process in London can feel complex, but with the right understanding and preparation, you can help your child excel.
Table of Contents
Overview of the 11+ Exam in London
The 11+ exam London involves several formats depending on each borough and school type. Selective state schools in areas such as Bexley, Bromley, and Sutton typically use the GL Assessment format, which includes separate papers in English, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
Independent schools, on the other hand, often follow the ISEB or custom entrance exams that combine these subjects with additional creative writing tasks. Understanding which format applies to your chosen school is the first step towards successful preparation.
Exam Formats and Key Dates
Here’s how the main exam boards differ:
GL Assessment: Four individual papers (English, maths, verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning), each lasting around 50–60 minutes.
CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring): Two mixed-content papers of 45–50 minutes, divided into short timed sections that cannot be revisited.
ISEB: Separate English comprehension, creative writing, maths, and reasoning papers, totalling 90–120 minutes.
Key Dates:
Registration: Typically opens in April or May of Year 5.
Exams: Usually take place in September of Year 6.
Results: Released in October, followed by offers in November.
Being aware of these timelines helps families plan revision schedules effectively and avoid last-minute pressure.
Top Preparation Strategies
Excelling in the 11plus exam London requires structured practice and familiarity with the question styles. Tutoring programmes such as Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests offer London-specific 11Plus practice materials and realistic mock exams that simulate actual test conditions.
To prepare effectively:
Target Borough-Specific Practice: Use past papers and GL or CEM-style materials tailored to your area.
Take Timed Mocks: Build speed and accuracy by recreating exam-day pressure.
Use Feedback Wisely: Identify and focus on weaker subjects like maths or verbal reasoning early in the process.
A well-rounded study plan builds confidence and ensures children perform consistently across all test sections.
Borough Variations and Entry Details
While London’s GL consortiums share similar formats, local differences do exist:
Bexley: Uses GL papers for all subjects, with typical pass scores between 121 and 123.
Bromley: Includes a creative writing component alongside GL papers.
Sutton: Offers a single GL test accepted by multiple schools, reducing the need for repeated exams.
Leading independent schools such as St Paul’s Girls’, City of London School, and Latymer Upper conduct their own entrance exams, usually held on weekends, followed by interviews.
Next Steps for Parents
Understanding the 11+ exam London process is the foundation for your child’s success. For further guidance:
Read our 11plus exam history guide to learn how selective education evolved.
Explore our 11+ exam question format guide for detailed paper structures.
Compare with our Kent Test overview for cross-regional insights.
If you’re ready to begin structured preparation, Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests provides London-focused tutoring and mock exams that help children master the skills needed for success.
Start today and give your child the confidence to excel in one of London’s most competitive educational landscapes.
