11 Plus Exam Papers

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AS Team July 15, 2025

Introduction

At A Star Equivalency, we know that early academic milestones can shape a child’s future. The 11 Plus exam is one of those key moments for families aiming for grammar or selective independent schools. With the right approach and access to reliable 11 plus exam papers, preparation can feel much more manageable.

In this post, we’ll explain what the 11 Plus exam involves, look at the different subjects that could come up, and show you where to find trustworthy practice resources like 11 plus papers and 11 plus exam past papers.

 

What Is the 11 Plus Exam?

The 11 Plus is an entrance test taken by Year 6 pupils, typically in September. It’s used by grammar schools and some independent schools to help decide who receives a place.

Each school or region can run the exam slightly differently. One of the most widely used providers is GL Assessment, but some schools write their own papers. This means the structure and focus of the exam can vary, so it’s always best to check the details for your chosen schools.

 

What’s Included in 11 Plus Exam Papers?

Even though not every school covers the same topics, most 11 plus exam papers are made up of a combination of the following subjects:

  • Verbal Reasoning
    These questions test a child’s language and logic skills. They might involve word puzzles, spotting patterns, or solving problems with letter codes.
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning
    This section is all about visual thinking. Pupils might be asked to complete sequences of shapes, find the odd one out, or match mirrored images.
  • English
    English sections usually focus on comprehension, grammar, spelling and punctuation. Some schools may also include a creative writing task.
  • Mathematics
    The maths paper covers areas from the Key Stage 2 curriculum, such as number operations, fractions, measurements and worded reasoning problems.

Not every school will test all four subjects, and the format can vary. That’s why it’s so important to practise using 11 plus papers that reflect the exam your child will be sitting.

 

Where to Find 11 Plus Papers and Support

If you’re looking for realistic and helpful revision materials, the MME 11 Plus page is an excellent starting point. It includes full practice exams, topic-based questions, and mock tests based on both GL Assessment and school-specific styles.

Using 11 plus exam past papers can help your child become more familiar with the layout of the test and improve their time management.

 

Final Thoughts

The 11 Plus can feel like a big hurdle, but with steady practice and support, it becomes far more manageable. High-quality 11 plus exam papers are one of the best tools to boost your child’s confidence and performance.

To access a full range of 11 plus papers and download free 11 plus exam past papers, head over to the MME 11 Plus resources.

At A Star Equivalency, we’re passionate about helping learners of all ages reach their goals, from primary school entry to adult qualifications.

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Written by

A Star Equivalency Team

We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.