GL Assessment vs CEM:
What's the difference?
GL Assessment and CEM are the two main 11+ exam providers used by grammar schools in England. They test similar academic skills but differ significantly in format, predictability, and preparation approach. Here's what every parent needs to know.
Quick comparison
| Feature | GL Assessment | CEM |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects tested | English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning (school chooses which) | Verbal Reasoning (inc. English skills) + Numerical Reasoning (inc. Maths) |
| Format | Multiple-choice; each subject in separate timed sections | Mixed format; subjects combined across two booklets; some fill-in-the-blank |
| Predictability | Higher — question types are well documented and consistent | Lower — designed to be harder to "teach to"; question styles vary more |
| Past papers | Familiarisation booklets available; many practice resources | CEM stopped publishing practice papers in 2023; limited resources available |
| Who uses it | Most grammar schools in England (majority) | Fewer schools — mainly Trafford and formerly West Midlands |
| Timing style | Fixed time per section; questions must be answered in order | Strict time limits across mixed-content booklets |
| VR/NVR | VR and NVR are distinct sections, each thoroughly tested | VR is embedded within a broader "verbal" booklet alongside English comprehension |
| Preparation materials | Bond, CGP, GL familiarisation packs, school-specific guides | Limited; CEM no longer publish official practice materials |
GL Assessment — in depth
Used by the majority of English grammar schools
What it tests
GL Assessment papers can cover up to four subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR). Individual schools choose which combination to use — QE Barnet uses all four, while some schools only use Maths and English. Always check your target school's admissions page for the exact combination.
Format
All questions are multiple-choice. Children answer on a separate answer sheet using a pencil. Papers are divided into clearly labelled timed sections — children are told when to start and stop each section. This structure makes GL papers very practiseable: children can become familiar with exactly what to expect.
How to prepare
- Download GL Assessment familiarisation booklets — free from the GL Assessment website
- Use Bond 11+ or CGP practice papers, which closely match GL style
- Practise VR and NVR question types consistently — these are not taught in school
- Time each section under exam conditions
- Focus on accuracy rather than speed initially, then build pace
Schools using GL Assessment (selection)
CEM — in depth
Used by fewer schools; designed to be harder to "tutor-proof"
What it tests
CEM papers are typically split into two booklets: a Verbal booklet (covering comprehension, vocabulary, cloze exercises, and verbal reasoning) and a Numerical booklet (covering maths and numerical reasoning). The distinction between subjects is deliberately blurred to make last-minute cramming less effective.
Format
CEM uses a mix of multiple-choice and short-answer questions. Children may encounter unfamiliar question styles that require them to adapt quickly. The timing is tighter and the content can shift unexpectedly between question types, putting more pressure on children who are only used to one style.
Important note for 2024+
How to prepare
- Focus on broad vocabulary development — reading widely is the best preparation
- Practise cloze exercises (fill-in-the-blank) and comprehension under time pressure
- Build strong mental maths and numerical reasoning skills
- Use CGP and Bond CEM-style papers — official CEM papers are no longer available
- Practise switching quickly between question types without losing focus
Schools currently using CEM
Other exam formats to know
SETSutton SET
The Selective Eligibility Test used by Sutton grammar schools. Tests Maths and English only (no VR/NVR) in a more open-answer style. Followed by a separate Stage 2 written exam for shortlisted candidates.
OWNSchool-set papers
Several grammar and independent schools write their own papers. These are usually harder to predict but schools typically publish sample or specimen papers on their admissions pages.
ISEBISEB Pre-Test
Used by many top independent schools (Westminster, St Paul's, Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge, Highgate) as an initial screen. It's an online adaptive test taken at the child's own school in Year 6, covering Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Children who pass are invited for further school-specific assessment.
CSSECSSE (Essex)
The Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex uses its own CSSE papers for grammar schools including Colchester Royal Grammar, Chelmsford County High, and others. Papers cover English and Maths in a distinct style. CSSE publishes sample papers on their website.
How to find out which format your target school uses
- 1Go to the school's official admissions or 11+ page
- 2Look for mentions of "GL Assessment", "CEM", "SET", or "ISEB Pre-Test"
- 3Download any specimen or sample papers linked — these show you the exact format
- 4If the school sets its own papers, check their admissions FAQ for format details
- 5If in doubt, email the school's admissions team directly — they are usually very helpful
Ready to start practising?
Our mock exams cover both GL Assessment and school-specific styles, tailored to your target school.