A practical first question for any parent: what subjects are tested in the 11+ exam? The 11+ covers up to four areas — English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning — but the exact mix depends on the school. Here's what each section involves.
The four core 11+ subjects
Most 11+ exams draw from four areas. Grammar schools and independent schools each choose which to include and in what format (GL, CEM or their own papers), so always confirm what your target schools test.
English
Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and — at many schools — a piece of creative or persuasive writing. Wide reading is the single best long-term preparation.
Maths
Covers the Key Stage 2 curriculum and beyond: arithmetic, fractions, percentages, geometry and multi-step problem-solving. Speed and accuracy under time pressure matter as much as method.
Verbal Reasoning (VR)
Word-based logic: codes, sequences, analogies and vocabulary-driven puzzles. VR rewards a strong vocabulary and familiarity with the recurring question types.
Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)
Visual and spatial logic: shapes, patterns, rotations and sequences. NVR is less about taught knowledge and more about pattern recognition — which improves markedly with practice.
How schools vary (GL, CEM, bespoke)
Some schools test all four areas; others only English and Maths. GL and CEM papers differ in style, and many independent schools set bespoke exams. Confirming the exact format is essential — then prepare specifically. Our guides on what is the 11+ exam and how to prepare for the 11+ exam go further, and BCC tailors preparation to each child's target schools.