For many parents in the UK, knowing when is the 11 plus exam in 2026 and the steps leading up to it is an essential part of planning grammar school preparation. The 11 Plus determines admission to selective state grammar schools and knowing key dates helps families stay organised, reduce stress, and support their child effectively.
In this guide, we will explain the timetable for 2026 entry, when you should apply, and how preparation fits in across the primary school years.
Most grammar schools in England hold their 11 Plus tests in September 2026, usually in the first two weeks of the month.
Some authorities and consortia have slight variations:
Because the 11 Plus is administered locally, always check your specific grammar school’s admissions information for the exact 11 Plus exam dates 2026.
Most of the grammar schools open their registration for 11 Plus long before the test date. The typical timeline looks something like this:
Missing the registration window can mean your child is unable to sit the test, so checking individual school deadlines early is important.
For families who feel they are starting later than planned, structured support such as our focused intensive courses can help students strengthen key skills and build confidence ahead of the exam.
Here is a broad overview of key steps you should expect when planning for the 11 plus exam 2026:
This timeline gives families a clear sequence of events and helps them plan reading, practice, and mock testing in good time.
Ideally, structured preparation should begin well before Year 6 so your child is familiar with question styles.
Instead of rushing everything in Year 6, many parents begin building skills earlier.
This progressive method reduces last-minute pressure and ensures children develop both skills and confidence before Year 6.
Not all grammar schools follow the exact same calendar. Some local authorities or consortia organise tests on slightly different dates. For instance:
Always check your chosen grammar school’s official admissions page or local council information to ensure you have the correct dates.
While most 11 Plus exams take place in September, exact arrangements depend on your local authority or grammar school consortium. Some areas operate shared testing systems, while others set their own entrance papers and registration timelines. It is therefore important to review each school’s official admissions guidance carefully and make a note of registration windows, test formats, and result release dates. Staying organised early helps avoid last-minute confusion and ensures your child has the time and space to prepare properly.
This examination is a very crucial turning point in the life of your child, and it has to be faced with utmost caution and also with a lot of preparation.
However, understanding when is the 11 Plus Exam is helpful for planning, while it is the preparation that actually builds confidence. Closer to September, when the test is held, structured practice under realistic conditions is far more productive than last-minute revision.
Among these, one of the best ways to reduce uncertainty is well-structured 11 plus mocks. Our mock tests are designed to be as similar as possible to real test conditions. They will help students to feel more comfortable with timing, understand the format of the questions, and know how to cope in an exam environment. Alongside, guidance from our experienced tutors will ensure that preparation is sound and focused so that children can approach the exam in a calm manner rather than being overwhelmed.
The 11 Plus exam usually takes place in September of Year 6, although exact timing can vary slightly by region.
In most areas, the 11 plus exam dates 2026 fall in early to mid-September 2026, but parents should confirm exact dates with their chosen grammar school or local authority.
Registration usually opens in spring 2026, often between April and May, with most deadlines falling around June or early July. It’s best to check your local authority for exact dates.
