How do I register my child for the grammar school entry test?

What Are Grammar School Entry Tests?

The 11+ exam typically consists of 4 core sections: Verbal Reasoning (synonyms, analogies), Non-Verbal Reasoning (patterns, sequences), Maths (age 10-11 curriculum), and English (comprehension, spelling). These grammar school entry tests assess skills for selective school admission. They help schools identify pupils ready for academic rigour.

Tests vary by provider and region. GL Assessment uses multiple choice formats, while CEM Select focuses on comprehension. Families should check local school entry requirements early.

Preparation involves practice with Bond 11+ books and mock tests. Parents can explore preparation courses or online resources. Familiarity reduces test-day anxiety for children.

Pass marks often fall in standardised score ranges like 109-121, but criteria differ by school. Results influence grammar school places and waiting lists. Review each school's admissions policy for details.

These consortium tests serve multiple selective schools. Families register via online portals or local authorities. Always confirm application deadlines and fees.

Age and Residence Criteria

Children must be born between 1st September 2012 and 31st August 2013 for September 2024 Year 7 entry across most UK grammar schools. This age eligibility ensures pupils are the correct age for the 11 plus exam. Schools strictly enforce this to maintain fairness in the grammar school entry test.

Proof of UK residence is essential during child registration. Submit documents like a Council Tax bill or utility bill dated within the last three months. These verify your address for the application process.

Catchment variations apply depending on the area, such as Bucks requiring two or more years of residence. Always check the school catchment area in the admissions policy. Priority groups include looked-after children and those eligible for Pupil Premium.

Use the table below to compare key requirements across counties. It lists age cut-off, residence rules, and example schools. This helps with planning your test registration and multiple applications.

Key Dates to Remember

For 2024 entry: Buckinghamshire registration 12th June-5th July, test 5th October; Kent registration 2nd June-1st August, tests 7th/21st September. These dates mark critical points in the grammar school entry test process for selective schools. Parents must check the official admissions portal for their chosen consortium to confirm exact timings.

Missing the application deadline often leads to late fees or rejection. For instance, late applications may incur charges from £20 to £50, depending on how soon after the close date they arrive. In extreme cases, such as Birmingham in 2023, around 200 late applications were rejected outright.

Planning ahead helps with gathering documents like the birth certificate and proof of address. Use the timeline below to track key stages for major consortia, including registration open, close dates, test dates, and results release. Set calendar reminders for online registration or paper application submission.

After registration, expect a confirmation email with details on the exam venue and test day rules. Prepare by reviewing the school prospectus and attending open days. This ensures your child meets age eligibility and other school entry requirements.

Proof of Address and Birth Certificate

Full UK birth certificate (not short form) plus 2 proofs of address are required: one Council Tax bill plus one utility dated within 3 months of application. These documents verify your child's age eligibility and family residence for the grammar school entry test. Submit clear scans during online registration to avoid delays.

Schools check these strictly during the application process to confirm school catchment area and prevent fraud. In Kent, a notable number of applicants faced rejection in 2023 due to address verification issues. Always use documents in the parent/guardian name matching your parent account.

The table below lists acceptable documents with examples and notes for smooth child registration.

Prepare these early to meet the application deadline. If homeschooling, include additional proof of address like bank statements. Contact the local authority via email support if documents are missing for selective school test registration.

Understanding Grammar School Entry Tests

Grammar school entry tests, primarily the 11+ exam, assess children's aptitude in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English to determine selective school places.

These tests come in two main formats. GL Assessment papers typically feature 60% verbal and non-verbal reasoning alongside 40% maths and English content. In contrast, CEM Select uses 60 questions completed in 50 minutes with a focus on reasoning skills.

Parents should check their local grammar schools to identify the test provider, as this affects preparation. Around 164 UK grammar schools use these entrance examinations for year 7 admissions. Understanding the structure helps with targeted practice using resources like Bond papers.

Age eligibility usually requires children to be in year 6, born between specific dates. Review the school prospectus or attend open days for details on test dates and venues.

GL Assessment Breakdown

GL Assessment tests often include 36 questions split between verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning, with a total time of 45 minutes per section. Maths and English components follow similar timed formats. This structure tests core primary school exam skills.

Sample question types in verbal reasoning involve word analogies, such as matching bird is to fly as fish is to swim. Non-verbal reasoning features shape patterns and sequences. Parents can find practice papers online or through preparation courses.

Top performers typically reach the pass mark, often needing scores in the upper quartile. Schools set their own criteria based on standardised scores. Familiarise your child with these via mock tests to build confidence.

Registration for GL tests happens through the local consortium or school portal. Ensure you submit proof of address and birth certificate by the application deadline.

CEM Select Breakdown

CEM Select emphasises numerical and verbal reasoning across 60 questions in 50 minutes, with less reliance on rote maths or English. It aims to identify potential without heavy coaching. This format suits children strong in logical thinking.

Examples include verbal reasoning puzzles like code-breaking or comprehension inferences. Numerical sections test quick calculations and data interpretation. Use test familiarisation materials to avoid surprises on exam day.

Pass rates depend on competition, with selective schools prioritising top scores. Oversubscription leads to tie-breaks like distance or sibling priority. Check the admissions policy for score bands and waiting lists.

For child registration, complete the online form via the LEA portal, paying the registration fee. Attend parent information evenings for insights into the process and preparation tips.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility hinges on birth date (1st Sept-31st Aug) and local authority residence rules, with most grammar schools requiring children to live in catchment 2+ years pre-application. For 2024 entry, the typical age window is 1 September 2012 to 31 August 2013. Parents must check the specific school admissions policy early in the process.

Proof of address forms a key part of child registration. Schools often ask for documents like council tax bills or utility statements covering the residence period. Always gather these in advance to avoid delays in the application process.

Some areas prioritise looked after children, pupil premium eligibility, or siblings already at the school. Review the school prospectus or attend open days for full priority criteria details. Contact the local authority if unsure about your situation.

Exceptions exist for special needs or access arrangements, so provide evidence like a birth certificate and previous school reports. Early verification helps secure a spot in the 11 plus exam or selective school test.

Bucks County Specifics

In Bucks, permanent residence in the catchment area is essential for grammar school entry test eligibility. Families must prove they have lived there long-term, often with multiple address proofs. This rule aims to ensure local children get priority for grammar school places.

Submit documents such as rental agreements or mortgage statements dated at least two years prior. The local authority verifies these during the application review. Failure to meet this can lead to rejection even after passing the entrance examination.

Parents should register child details via the online portal, including proof of address. Attend parent information evenings for Bucks-specific advice on the school admission test. This prepares you for the full process.

Sibling priority may apply if another child attends the school. Check the admissions policy for oversubscription rules like distance from school.

Kent Grammar Schools

Kent grammar schools have no set residence period but actively monitor local ties. Proof of living nearby helps, though not always mandatory for two full years. Focus on strong performance in the 11 plus exam to stand out.

Provide recent utility bills or a doctor's letter confirming address. Authorities track moves post-application to uphold fairness. This flexible approach suits families relocating within the county.

Use the online registration system for test registration, uploading supporting documents. Kent often uses GL Assessment for verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths test, and English test sections. Preparation with practice papers boosts chances.

Faith criteria or aptitude tests may influence priority in some schools. Review each school's policy and consider mock tests for familiarity.

Birmingham Catchment Rules

Birmingham emphasises catchment priority for state grammar schools, favouring those within defined zones. Residence proof is checked rigorously, typically spanning two years. This ensures places go to local pupils first.

Gather council tax records, bank statements, or electoral roll evidence. The LEA admissions team processes these alongside the application form. Late submissions can disqualify your child from the primary school exam.

Multiple applications are possible across selective schools, but declare all. Birmingham uses consortium tests, so note test dates and venues. Parental consent and a recent photo are often required.

For SEN provisions, request access arrangements early with medical evidence. Pupil premium or free school meals status can add priority in oversubscription scenarios.

Finding Your Local Grammar Schools

Use the official Grammar Schools Guide (164 schools across 36 LEAs) or local authority websites to identify grammar schools within your catchment area.

Start by visiting grammarschoolsnow.com, which lists all 164 grammar schools. This site helps you filter by region and provides details on school entry requirements like the 11 plus exam.

Next, check your local council admissions portal for selective schools in your area. For example, Birmingham LEA oversees 8 grammars offering places through a shared entrance examination process.

Review school prospectuses for specifics on application deadlines and test dates. Attend open days, typically held in September or October, to see facilities and ask about the registration process.

Top search tools include county council sites and TheGrammarSchoolGuide.co.uk. These resources outline priority criteria such as sibling priority or distance from school.

• County council sites for LEA admissions and catchment maps
• TheGrammarSchoolGuide.co.uk for school profiles and test information
• Grammarschoolsnow.com for a full national directory

Registration Timeline and Deadlines

Registration windows typically open June-July and close September-October, with tests held early September for most consortia. Parents must check specific dates for their target grammar schools as timelines vary by region and consortium. Missing these can limit grammar school places.

For 2024, Bucks registration closed on 12th June with the test on 5th October. In Kent, the window ran from 2nd June to 1st August. Always confirm via the local authority or school website to avoid errors.

Late applications often incur penalties like extra fees starting at £50, plus potential exclusion from priority criteria such as sibling priority or catchment area. Plan ahead by marking application deadlines in your calendar. Use the online portal for timely submission of forms and supporting documents like birth certificates.

Experts recommend starting the application process early to gather proof of address, parental consent, and any SEN provisions requests. This ensures smooth child registration for the 11 plus exam. Attend open days or parent evenings for precise school entry requirements.

Major Consortia Calendar

Key consortium tests follow set schedules for the selective school test. Review this calendar to align your test registration with options like GL Assessment or CEM Select. It covers five major groups to simplify planning.

After registering online or via paper application, expect a confirmation email with exam venue details and test day rules. Prepare by reviewing the school prospectus for age eligibility and priority criteria.

For multiple applications, note overlapping dates across state grammar schools. Check admissions policy for oversubscription rules like distance or looked after children status. This helps prioritise your register child efforts effectively.

Required Documents and Information

All applications require child's full birth certificate, parent/guardian ID, and proof of address (Council Tax, utility bills dated within 3 months). Scan these core documents in colour for clarity during the grammar school entry test registration. This ensures smooth verification in the application process.

Parents must also provide a recent passport-style photo of the child. For families eligible for Pupil Premium or free school meals, include supporting evidence like benefit statements. Additional documents apply for SEN provisions or access arrangements.

Prepare digital copies ahead of the application deadline to avoid delays in online registration. Check the school's admissions policy for specific school entry requirements. Parental consent forms confirm eligibility for the 11 plus exam.

Gather everything in one folder for easy upload to the online portal or paper application. Schools verify ID verification and residence to prioritise grammar school places under school catchment area rules. Contact the local authority helpline if unsure about formats.

Core Documents

Start with the child's full birth certificate showing date and place of birth to confirm age eligibility for the selective school test. Parent or guardian ID, such as a passport or driving licence, proves authority for child registration. These form the foundation of every test registration.

Proof of address must be recent, dated within three months. Acceptable examples include EDF or British Gas utility bills, or Council Tax statements. Banks statements or official letters from HMRC also work well.

Scan all in high-resolution colour as PDF or JPEG files, under 5MB each. Name files clearly, like ChildBirthCert.pdf, for quick review. This speeds up processing for the entrance examination.

If homeschooling, include evidence of academic record alongside standard docs. Schools may request a headteacher reference from previous settings. Double-check requirements in the school prospectus or during open days.

Additional Documents for SEN and Pupil Premium

For children needing SEN provisions, submit an Educational Health Care Plan or doctor's letter detailing special needs. Request access arrangements like extra time via these supporting documents. This supports fair participation in the primary school exam.

Pupil Premium eligibility requires proof like income-related free school meals letters or tax credit awards. These grant priority under oversubscription criteria alongside sibling priority or looked after children status. Attach them during register child steps.

Include recent previous school report or professional assessments for SEN cases. Formats match core docs: colour scans in PDF. Schools review for test familiarisation or modified papers in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, or English tests.

Parental consent is vital for sharing these with exam boards like GL Assessment or CEM Select. Apply early to allow processing before test date and exam venue assignment. Use parent forums for tips on common rejection reasons.

Document Formats and Examples

Use colour scans at 300 DPI for legibility in the application form. Preferred formats are PDF for security or JPG for photos, ensuring files open clearly on any device. Avoid blurry images to prevent application holds.

Proof of address examples include EDF electricity bill, British Gas gas statement, or current Council Tax bill. Passports serve as both ID and address proof if recently issued. Tenancy agreements work if dated within three months.

For photo requirement, use a plain background, head-and-shoulders shot like those for passport. Digital photos upload directly; printed ones suit postal application. Label as ChildPhoto_YearMonth.jpg.

Confirmation comes via email support or parent account portal after submission. Review LEA admissions guidelines for variations in consortium tests. Prepare backups to handle any upload issues before the registration fee payment.

Online Registration Process

Create a parent account on your LEA portal (e.g., Bucks 'Starting Secondary School'), upload documents, and select up to 6 preferences ranked by priority. This online registration process for the grammar school entry test typically takes about 45 minutes. Follow the steps carefully to avoid delays in your child's application.

First, set up your account on the local authority portal. It takes around 5 minutes and requires basic details like your email and contact information. Verify your email to activate the account for secure access.

1. 1Create your parent account on the Bucks CC portal or your relevant LEA site, which takes about 5 minutes.
2. 2Upload your child's birth certificate and proof of address as PDF or JPG files under 5MB each.
3. 3Enter your child's details and select up to 6 school preferences, ranked by priority for the 11 plus exam.
4. 4Pay the registration fee of £20 to £60, depending on your area and test type.
5. 5Download your confirmation within 24 hours; check your email and portal dashboard.

Common mistakes include using the wrong birth date format like DD/MM/YYYY when MM/DD/YYYY is needed, or submitting low-resolution scans that fail upload. Double-check file sizes and formats before submitting. Save a copy of all documents for your records.

Preparing Your Documents

Gather supporting documents early to speed up the child registration process. You need a clear scan of the birth certificate to confirm age eligibility for the school admission test. Include proof of address like a recent utility bill to meet school entry requirements.

Scan documents at high resolution, ensuring files are under 5MB in PDF or JPG format. For example, use a scanner app on your phone for quick uploads if needed. Blur any sensitive details not required, but keep key information legible.

Check for photo requirements or ID verification on your LEA portal. Some selective schools request a recent photo for the entrance examination. Parental consent is often needed via a digital signature during upload.

Selecting School Preferences

Rank up to 6 grammar schools by priority based on catchment area and criteria like sibling priority or distance. Consider test dates and exam venues when choosing for the primary school exam. Review each school's admissions policy and prospectus for details on pass criteria and oversubscription rules.

List preferences honestly to match your child's strengths in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths test, or English test. For instance, prioritise schools with SEN provisions if access arrangements are needed. Note priority for looked after children or pupil premium eligibility.

Multiple applications are allowed across selective schools, but focus on state grammar schools first. Check for consortium tests like GL Assessment or CEM Select. Attend open days or parent information evenings for insights before finalising.

Payment and Confirmation

Pay the registration fee securely via card on the portal after entering details. Fees range from £20 to £60 based on the selective school test and local rules. Keep your payment reference for queries.

After submission, expect a confirmation email within 24 hours with test date and venue details. Download the PDF confirmation from your account dashboard. Print it for test day rules, noting what to bring and prohibited items.

If issues arise, contact LEA admissions via helpline or email support before the application deadline. Track your application status online. Prepare for next steps like practice papers or mock tests while awaiting test results and score bands.

Paper Application Options

Download paper forms from LEA websites (e.g., Kent County Council) or request by calling 03000 41 23 56; post with original documents to specified address. This paper application process suits families without reliable internet access. It ensures your child registration for the grammar school entry test follows official guidelines.

Start by obtaining the application form for the 11 plus exam. Complete it in black ink to avoid processing delays. Attach the original birth certificate to verify age eligibility.

Include proofs of address and any parental consent forms. Pay the registration fee of £42 via postal order or cheque, payable to the LEA. Use recorded delivery when posting to track your school admission test submission.

Expect processing time of about 10 working days. Contacts include Kent at 03000 41 23 56 and Bucks at 01296 395000 for queries on application deadline or test date. Keep copies of all supporting documents for your records.

Step-by-Step Paper Process

Follow this step-by-step process for smooth test registration. First, download the form from the local authority site or call the helpline. Fill it out carefully, noting school catchment area and priority criteria.

Second, gather original birth certificate, proof of address, and passport photos if required. Experts recommend double-checking entrance examination details like exam venue. Include evidence for sibling priority or pupil premium.

1. 1Download or request the application form from Kent CC website or by phone.
2. 2Complete in black ink, detailing selective school test preferences.
3. 3Attach original birth certificate plus proofs for ID verification.
4. 4Add postal order or cheque for £42, payable to LEA.
5. 5Post via recorded delivery to the LEA address listed on the form.

After submission, await confirmation email or letter outlining test day rules. This method supports multiple applications to state grammar schools.

Fees and Payment Methods

The registration fee is £42, payable by postal order or cheque to the LEA. Do not send cash, as it risks loss in transit. Confirm the payee name on the form for grammar school places.

For looked after children or those eligible for free school meals, fee waivers may apply; contact the LEA helpline. Use recorded delivery to protect your payment. Keep the receipt as proof.

Bucks parents can call 01296 395000 for fee queries related to consortium tests. Ensure payment accompanies all supporting documents. Late fees are not accepted past the application deadline.

Processing and Contacts

Applications take around 10 working days to process. You will receive confirmation with test date and exam venue details. Track status by calling the provided numbers.

Kent support: 03000 41 23 56; Bucks: 01296 395000. Ask about SEN provisions or access arrangements during this time. Helplines offer advice on oversubscription and waiting list options.

If issues arise with postal application, email support may be available via LEA details. Prepare for verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths test, and English test while waiting. Common mistakes include missing birth certificate copies.

Fees and Payment Methods

Fees range £20-£65 per test: Bucks (£82), Kent (£42), Birmingham (£65). Pupil Premium/Free School Meals eligible families can apply for waivers via a dedicated form. Always check the specific local authority website for your grammar school's exact fee.

Paying the registration fee is a key step in the child registration process for the 11 plus exam. Late payments or errors often lead to application delays. Submit payment promptly after completing the online registration or paper form.

Waiver processes require uploading an eligibility letter from your child's primary school. For example, confirm Pupil Premium status before the application deadline. Contact the LEA admissions team if documents are missing to avoid rejection.

Multiple payment methods suit different preferences, from online cards to postal orders. Keep proof of payment for your records. Non-payment led to around 8% of applications being rejected in 2023 across selective schools.

Applying for Fee Waivers

Start the waiver process early during test registration. Upload your proof of eligibility, such as a letter confirming Free School Meals or Pupil Premium. This ensures your child's grammar school entry test application proceeds without fee barriers.

Families with looked after children or those qualifying under SEN provisions often receive automatic waivers. Verify requirements in the school's admissions policy. Submit via the online portal for quickest processing.

If approved, you will receive a confirmation email waiving the registration fee. Rejected waiver claims require full payment by the deadline. Experts recommend keeping copies of all supporting documents.

Common Payment Issues and Solutions

Payment failures can derail your application for the school admission test. Double-check card details or postal order references before submitting. Contact the LEA admissions helpline if issues arise post-submission.

Some parents face delays with cheques due to processing times. Opt for online payment where possible for instant confirmation. Always note the test date and exam venue in your parent account.

Rejections from non-payment highlight the need for prompt action. Track your application status online. This avoids missing out on grammar school places due to avoidable errors.

Multiple School Applications

Rank up to 6 preferences on one form. There is no penalty for applying to multiple grammars within the same consortium, such as the Birmingham 8 schools. This approach maximises your child's chances for grammar school places.

Start by researching oversubscription ratios for each school. For example, Barton Peveril Grammar often sees high demand, so check the latest admissions data on school websites or local authority portals. This helps you gauge competitiveness before submitting your application form.

Next, rank your choices from safe to competitive. Place a reliable local grammar first if it fits, followed by more selective options. In equal preference areas, schools consider test scores alongside other criteria without strict distance rules, unlike comprehensive areas.

Remember that applying to schools in the same consortium tests means your child sits just one 11 plus exam. Birmingham parents, for instance, can apply to all 8 grammars using a single form via the local authority's online portal. Always verify the application deadline to avoid missing out.

• Research each school's oversubscription criteria, including sibling priority and catchment areas.
• List preferences strategically: safe first, ambitious last.
• Confirm if multiple schools share the same entrance examination to save time on test registration.
• Prepare supporting documents like proof of address and birth certificate for all applications.

Confirmation and Next Steps

Expect a confirmation email within 5-10 days containing the test date (early Sept), venue address, and candidate number. Print this email and bring it with photo ID on test day for the grammar school entry test. This ensures smooth entry into the exam venue.

After receiving confirmation, complete a post-registration checklist to stay organised. Save the confirmation as a PDF for your records. Note key test rules such as no calculators and use of 2B pencils only.

Prepare for travel as venues are often sports halls or large centres. Check the results timeline, typically around 31st October in most areas. Familiarise yourself with the 11 plus exam format including verbal reasoning and maths test sections.

On test day, pack essentials like your confirmation printout, pencils, rubber, water bottle, and a small snack. Review prohibited items with your child to avoid issues. Contact the helpline if any details change during the application process.

Post-Registration Checklist

Follow this post-registration checklist right after your child registration for the selective school test. First, download and save the confirmation PDF from the email. Keep it safe alongside supporting documents like birth certificate and proof of address.

Next, note all test day rules including no electronic devices or calculators. Use only 2B pencils and a rubber for the non-verbal reasoning and English test papers. Review the school prospectus for any additional school entry requirements.

Plan travel to the exam venue, often a sports hall in the school catchment area. Mark the test date in early September on your calendar. Understand the results timeline, usually by late October, to manage expectations around grammar school places.

Discuss parental consent forms and any SEN provisions if applicable. Check for access arrangements like extra time. This preparation supports your child's confidence for the entrance examination.

Test Day Packing List

Prepare a clear test day packing list for the primary school exam. Include the printed confirmation email with candidate number and venue details. Add photo ID for verification at entry.

Pack 2B pencils, a sharpener, rubber, transparent water bottle, and a non-messy snack like fruit. Avoid prohibited items such as watches or food wrappers. Label everything with your child's name for the school admission test.

Review invigilator instructions in the confirmation, focusing on arrival time and seating. Practice with mock tests using similar items at home. This routine helps reduce anxiety on the test date.

Helpline Support by County

Use these helpline numbers by county for queries on test registration or changes. Contact the local authority for issues with online portal access or paper application status. They assist with registration fee queries and application deadlines.

For GL Assessment or CEM Select tests, helplines cover consortium details and priority criteria like sibling priority. Ask about waiting lists or appeal processes if needed. Always reference your parent account number.