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Independent School 11+: format, schools and practice papers
A plain summary of how the Independent School 11+ works and how to prepare for it. Each detail says whether it is published by the organisers, reported by other sources, or not published at all. We last checked these details in November 2026.
What the test involves
Subjects: maths, English and a writing task.
- Reported
- In November 2026 we looked at the entrance tests of 100 large independent schools in England that take pupils at 11: 78 were reported to use papers they set themselves, usually English (comprehension and creative writing) and maths. About half also use an online first-round test.
- Reported
- School-set papers usually need written answers rather than multiple choice. Each school sets its own length, timing, marks and style, and some add reasoning tests or interviews.
- Not published
- English about 1 hour 10 minutes (40 marks reading, 20 marks writing); maths about 1 hour (60 marks); no calculator. These are typical, not standard, and are not based on any one school’s paper.
The writing task
Most school-set English papers are reported to include a creative writing task; each school sets its own marks, and our split of 20 marks for writing is an assumption.
Schools that use this test
Independent schools that set their own 11+ English and maths papers: in our November 2026 research, 78 of 100 large independent schools in England that take pupils at 11 were reported to do so. St Anselm’s College, Wirral, a Catholic grammar school, also sets its own written English and maths (plus verbal reasoning; use the verbal reasoning booklets from the own-test pack).
How to prepare
- Practise writing answers in full, showing working in maths and using evidence from the text in English: marks are given for method and explanation, not just the final answer.
- Practise a timed piece of writing every week or two: five minutes planning, then a clear opening, middle and ending.
- Sit full mock tests under timed conditions only every week or two, and spend the time in between on the question types that cost marks.
Practice papers for the Independent School 11+
Every question is original, written to the same types and level as the published format. Each option has a free sample, so you can check it suits your child first.
Four full mock tests for schools that set their own papers: unseen texts (story, article, older-style extract, poem) with written questions, creative writing, written maths, mark schemes and a parent guide.
Four more full mock tests in the same format as Set 1, with new questions throughout, answer sheets, answers and the parent guide.
A revision handbook for the Independent School 11+: 60 lessons teaching the methods for maths and English, with worked examples, practice questions, must-know lists and a 12-week plan.
Everything for this test in one download: Set 1 and Set 2 (eight full mock tests) and the revision handbook. £39.97 if bought separately.
Questions parents ask
What does the Independent School 11+ test?
It covers maths, English and a writing task. In November 2026 we looked at the entrance tests of 100 large independent schools in England that take pupils at 11: 78 were reported to use papers they set themselves, usually English (comprehension and creative writing) and maths. About half also use an online first-round test.
Is there a writing task?
Most school-set English papers are reported to include a creative writing task; each school sets its own marks, and our split of 20 marks for writing is an assumption.
Are these the real Independent School 11+ papers?
No. Real past papers are not usually published. Our papers are original and set out like the published format, so children know what to expect.
Where do I check dates and registration?
Always check with each school’s admissions page, and any sample papers the school publishes. Dates and arrangements change from year to year.
Helpful guides
- Grammar school vs independent school entrance tests
- When should my child start preparing for the 11+?
- What is verbal reasoning in the 11+?
- How to use 11+ mock tests well
- A balanced Year 5 summer 11+ revision plan
No practice material can promise a pass or a place. Places depend on scores, the school's rules and often distance.