What Are The 7+, 11+ and 13+ Exams?
The 7+, 11+, and 13+ exams are entrance assessments used by independent (private) schools in the UK to select students for admission at various key stages of their education. These exams are tailored to evaluate academic ability, reasoning skills, and sometimes extracurricular potential, depending on the school’s focus and ethos.
The 7+ Exam
The 7+ exam is for entry into Year 3, typically when children are 7 years old. It is commonly used by preparatory schools or junior divisions of independent schools to admit students at the start of Key Stage 2.
- English - Reading Comprehension, Creative Writing, Grammar and Spelling.
- Mathematics - Covers basic arithmetic, problem-solving, and reasoning.
- Reasoning - Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Exams usually take place in January of Year 2.
The 11+ Exam
The 11+ exam is used for entry into Year 7, the first year of secondary school, typically at age 11. It is widely used by grammar schools and independent schools.
- English - Comprehension exercises, creative or discursive writing, grammar and punctuation.
- Mathematics - Topics from Key Stage 2, including algebra, geometry, and problem-solving.
- Reasoning - Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Some schools may include general knowledge or science sections.
The 13+ Exam
The 13+ exam is used for entry into Year 9, generally at age 13, and is primarily targeted at students transitioning into senior independent schools.
- English - Comprehension exercises, creative or discursive writing, grammar and punctuation.
- Mathematics - Topics from Key Stage 2, including algebra, geometry, and problem-solving.
- Reasoning - Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Some schools may include general knowledge or science sections.
Comparison of 7+, 11+, and 13+
| Feature | 7+ | 11+ | 13+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Age | 7 years | 11 years | 13 years |
| Year of Entry | Year 3 | Year 7 | Year 9 |
| Purpose | Prep school entry | Secondary school entry | Senior school entry |
| Subjects | English, Maths, Reasoning | English, Maths, Reasoning (plus Science in some cases) | English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Languages |
| Format | Written tests, interviews | Written/multiple-choice tests, interviews | Written exams, interviews, and sometimes coursework |
| Competition Level | Moderate | High | Variable (very competitive for scholarships) |
Key Differences
- Age of the Candidate: The 7+ is for younger students entering preparatory education, while the 11+ and 13+ focus on secondary and senior school admissions.
- Academic Breadth: The 7+ focuses on foundational skills, the 11+ introduces reasoning and subject-specific depth, and the 13+ expands to a broader curriculum.
- Purpose: The 7+ is about securing early entry, the 11+ is often for selective grammar schools or independent schools, and the 13+ caters to prestigious senior schools or scholarship candidates.
- Start Early: Allow adequate time for preparation to ensure mastery of required skills.
- Practice Regularly: Use past papers, mock exams, and reasoning exercises.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Address gaps in knowledge with tailored practice.
- Stay Balanced: Avoid overloading; maintain a balance between academics, rest, and play.