Year 6 Entrance Exams 2025-2026
⚠️ Understanding Three Different Exam Systems
Year 6 students (ages 10-11) may face up to three different types of assessments depending on their educational pathway:
This guide covers all three systems to help families understand which exams apply to their situation and when they take place.
1. KS2 SATs 2026 (Compulsory State School Tests)
What are KS2 SATs?
Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) are compulsory national tests taken by all Year 6 students in state-maintained primary schools in England. These tests assess attainment at the end of Key Stage 2 (primary education).
Who takes them: All Year 6 pupils in state primary schools (not independent schools)
Purpose: Monitor school performance and provide secondary schools with baseline data
Impact: Results reported to parents but do NOT determine secondary school placement (except grammar schools which use 11+ instead)
KS2 SATs 2026 Timetable
| Date | Test | Duration | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | English Grammar & Punctuation (Paper 1) | 45 minutes | Grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, sentence structure |
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | English Spelling (Paper 2) | 20 minutes | 20 spelling words read aloud by teacher |
| Tuesday, 12th May 2026 | English Reading | 60 minutes | Three reading passages with comprehension questions |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 1: Arithmetic | 30 minutes | Calculations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 2: Reasoning | 40 minutes | Problem-solving, reasoning questions |
| Thursday, 14th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 3: Reasoning | 40 minutes | Problem-solving, reasoning questions |
KS2 SATs Grading System
KS2 SATs are marked out of 110 for each subject and converted to a scaled score:
- Scaled Score 100+ = Working at Expected Standard (Pass)
- Scaled Score 110+ = Working at Greater Depth / Higher Standard
- Scaled Score 80-99 = Below Expected Standard
Typical scaled score range: 80-120 (with 100 being the expected standard)
Additional KS2 Assessments
| Assessment | Date | Year Group | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) | 1-14 June 2026 (2-week window) | Year 4 | 5 minutes (online) |
| Phonics Screening Check | 8-14 June 2026 (1-week window) | Year 1 (and Year 2 resits) | 5-10 minutes |
| Teacher Assessment - Writing | Throughout Year 6 | Year 6 | Based on coursework |
| Teacher Assessment - Science | Throughout Year 6 | Year 6 | Based on classwork |
2. Grammar School 11+ Exams (For September 2026 Entry)
What is the 11+ Exam?
The 11+ examination is an entrance test for selective state grammar schools in certain areas of England. Students take these tests in Year 5 or early Year 6 (September-November 2025) for entry into Year 7 in September 2026.
Who takes them: Only students applying to grammar schools in grammar school areas (not all areas have grammar schools)
Purpose: Select academically able students for grammar school places
Impact: Pass = offered grammar school place; Fail = attend comprehensive secondary school
11+ Timeline for September 2026 Entry
| Date | Milestone | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| April - May 2025 | Registration Opens | Parents register child for 11+ test online |
| May - June 2025 | Registration Deadline | Final date to register (varies by area - typically early June) |
| August 2025 | Admit Cards Issued | Test location and time confirmed |
| September 2025 | 11+ Exam Days | Main testing period (typically mid-September) |
| October 2025 | Results Released | Pass/fail notification sent to parents (mid-October) |
| 31st October 2025 | Secondary Application Deadline | Submit CAF (Common Application Form) to home local authority |
| 2nd March 2026 | National Offer Day | School places offered |
| September 2026 | Start Grammar School | Begin Year 7 at grammar school |
11+ Test Formats by Region
GL Assessment (Most Common)
Used in: Kent, Devon, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire
Subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning
CEM (Durham University)
Used in: Birmingham, Trafford, Wiltshire, Dorset
Subjects: Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning (combined papers)
Independent Tests
Used in: Some grammar schools set their own tests
Subjects: Varies - check individual school requirements
Sample Regional 11+ Exam Dates (September 2025)
| Region | Registration Opens | Registration Closes | Test Date(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kent | Early June 2025 | Early July 2025 | TBC September 2025 |
| Buckinghamshire | Early May 2026 | Mid-June 2025 | TBC September 2025 |
| Warwickshire | 7th May 2025 | 30th June 2025 | 13-14 September 2025 |
| Slough Consortium | 1st May 2025 | 5th June 2025 | 20th September 2025 |
| Birmingham | May 2025 | June 2025 | September 2025 |
📍 Regional Variation: 11+ test dates, formats, and procedures vary significantly by local authority. Always check your specific region's official website for exact dates and requirements.
3. Common Entrance 11+ (Independent Schools)
What is Common Entrance 11+?
The Common Entrance Examination at 11+ is administered by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) for entry to independent (private) schools. It is taken by students in Year 6 who wish to enter independent senior schools at age 11.
Who takes them: Students applying to independent schools (often from independent prep schools)
Purpose: Assess readiness for independent senior school entry
Impact: Results used alongside other assessments (school interviews, previous reports) for admission decisions
Common Entrance 11+ Examination Dates 2026-27
| Examination Session | Dates | Entry For |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn 2026 | 2-3 November 2026 | Entry to Year 7 in September 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | January 2027 (TBC) | Mid-year or September 2027 entry |
| Summer 2027 | May 2027 (TBC) | September 2027 entry (supplementary) |
⚠️ Important Note: Common Entrance 11+ exams in November 2026 are for entry in September 2027, not 2026. Students applying for September 2026 entry would have taken CE 11+ in Autumn 2025 (November 2025).
Common Entrance 11+ Subjects
| Subject | Duration | Content |
|---|---|---|
| English | 50 minutes | Reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar |
| Mathematics | 50 minutes | Arithmetic, problem-solving, reasoning (based on KS2 curriculum) |
| Science (Optional) | 40 minutes | Biology, Chemistry, Physics (some schools require this) |
💡 Note: Not all independent schools use Common Entrance 11+. Many set their own entrance exams. Check with individual schools about their specific entry requirements and exam dates.
Comparison of Three Exam Systems
| Aspect | KS2 SATs | 11+ Grammar Schools | Common Entrance 11+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Takes It | All Year 6 state school pupils | Students applying to grammar schools | Students applying to independent schools |
| When (for 2026 entry) | May 2026 | September 2025 | November 2025 (for Sept 2026 entry) |
| Compulsory? | Yes (state schools only) | No (voluntary) | No (voluntary) |
| Subjects | English, Maths | English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning | English, Maths, (Science optional) |
| Purpose | School accountability & baseline | Grammar school selection | Independent school admission |
| Impact on School Place | None (except grammar schools) | Determines grammar school offer | Part of admission decision |
| Results Format | Scaled score (80-120) | Pass/Fail (standardized score) | Percentage marks |
| Cost | Free | Free | Exam fee (varies by school) |
Key Dates Summary 2025-2026
| Month | Event | Exam System |
|---|---|---|
| April - May 2025 | 11+ Registration Opens | Grammar School 11+ |
| June 2025 | 11+ Registration Closes | Grammar School 11+ |
| September 2025 | 11+ Exams Take Place | Grammar School 11+ |
| October 2025 | 11+ Results Released | Grammar School 11+ |
| 31st October 2025 | Secondary Application Deadline | All Secondary Schools |
| November 2025 | Common Entrance 11+ Exams (for 2026 entry) | Independent Schools CE |
| 2nd March 2026 | National Offer Day | All Secondary Schools |
| 11-14 May 2026 | KS2 SATs Week | KS2 SATs (State Schools) |
| July 2026 | KS2 SATs Results Sent to Parents | KS2 SATs |
| September 2026 | Start Secondary School (Year 7) | All Students |
Preparation Strategies
For KS2 SATs
📚 School Preparation
Schools provide dedicated SATs revision lessons from Easter onwards. Attend all revision sessions.
📝 Past Papers
Practice with free past papers from 2016-2025 available online (SATs-Papers.co.uk).
⏰ Timed Practice
Complete practice papers under timed conditions to build exam stamina and time management.
📖 Daily Reading
Read widely and regularly to build vocabulary and comprehension skills for the reading paper.
For 11+ Grammar School Exams
🎯 Start Early
Begin preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5 to build reasoning skills gradually.
🧠 Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning
These subjects are not taught in school - use Bond, CGP, or Atom Learning resources.
📊 Practice Tests
Complete full mock exams under timed conditions. Identify weak areas and focus revision.
👨🏫 Consider Tutoring
Many families use specialist 11+ tutors or online platforms for structured preparation.
For Common Entrance 11+
- Work with Your School: Independent prep schools typically provide comprehensive CE preparation as part of their curriculum
- Past Papers: Practice with ISEB past papers available from their website or school
- School Requirements: Check which subjects the target senior school requires (not all require science)
- Interview Preparation: Many independent schools include interviews as part of the admissions process
- Taster Days: Attend open days and taster sessions at prospective senior schools
Official Resources and Links
KS2 SATs Official Resources
Standards and Testing Agency (STA) - UK Government
Official SATs Dates Practice Materials Free Past Papers11+ Grammar School Resources
Regional grammar school testing information
Kent Test Buckinghamshire 11+ Warwickshire 11+ Regional 11+ DatesCommon Entrance 11+ Official Resources
Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB)
ISEB Official Website CE Exam Dates Parent InformationRecommended Preparation Books and Resources
KS2 SATs Preparation
- CGP KS2 SATs Practice Books: English and Maths practice papers with answers
- Rising Stars Assessment: Online SATs practice platform
- Third Space Learning: Online SATs preparation with video tutorials
- BBC Bitesize KS2: Free online revision resources for all subjects
- Classroom Secrets: SATs question practice with mark schemes
11+ Preparation
- Bond 11+ Series: Comprehensive range of subject-specific practice books
- CGP 11+ Range: Practice books for all 11+ subjects
- Atom Learning: Online 11+ platform with adaptive learning
- GL Assessment Practice Papers: Official practice materials
- CEM 11+ Resources: Durham University-style practice materials
- Eleven Plus Exams: Free practice papers and resources online
Common Entrance 11+
- ISEB Past Papers: Available from ISEB website or through schools
- Galore Park CE Preparation: Subject-specific preparation books
- Independent School Entrance Exam Practice: Generic preparation materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child take both 11+ and KS2 SATs?
Yes. Students in grammar school areas who are in state primary schools will take the 11+ exam in September 2025 and then KS2 SATs in May 2026. The 11+ determines grammar school entry; SATs are mandatory but don't affect school placement in grammar areas.
What happens if my child fails the 11+?
If a student does not pass the 11+, they will be offered a place at a comprehensive secondary school through the normal application process. Some areas offer appeals or second-chance tests. Students can still have excellent academic outcomes at comprehensive schools.
Do private schools look at KS2 SATs results?
Independent schools do not typically use KS2 SATs results for admissions. They rely on their own entrance exams (which may include Common Entrance 11+), interviews, school reports, and taster days.
How is Common Entrance 11+ different from the 11+ grammar school test?
Common Entrance 11+ is for independent (private) school entry and is standardized across schools using ISEB. The grammar school 11+ is for state selective schools and varies by region. CE 11+ focuses on English and Maths; grammar 11+ includes reasoning tests not taught in schools.
When should we start preparing for the 11+?
Most families begin 11+ preparation in Year 4 (age 8-9) to allow sufficient time to develop verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills. However, later starts are possible with intensive preparation. Avoid over-tutoring which can cause stress.
Are KS2 SATs stressful for children?
Schools work hard to minimize SATs stress, but some children do feel pressure. Parents should: maintain perspective (SATs don't determine secondary placement in most areas), avoid adding extra pressure, ensure good sleep and nutrition, and focus on effort rather than results.
Can students resit the 11+ if they fail?
This varies by area. Some regions (e.g., Kent) allow students to retake the test in Year 7 or Year 8 for possible transfer to grammar school. Check with your local authority for specific policies.
What score do you need to pass the 11+?
Pass marks vary annually and by region based on the number of grammar school places available. Typically, students need to score in the top 25-30% of test-takers. The pass mark is a standardized score, commonly around 280-320+ depending on the area.
Important Reminders
- Know Which Exams Apply: Not all children take all three exam types - understand which are relevant to your situation
- Register Early: Don't miss 11+ registration deadlines (typically May-June for September tests)
- Check Local Authority: 11+ dates, formats, and pass marks vary significantly by region
- SATs Are Mandatory: All Year 6 state school pupils must take KS2 SATs - no opt-out available
- Balance Preparation: Avoid over-tutoring - children need play time, rest, and normal childhood experiences
- Maintain Perspective: One exam does not define a child's future - there are multiple pathways to success
- Support Wellbeing: Watch for signs of stress and anxiety - prioritize mental health over test scores
- Visit Schools: Attend open days for prospective secondary schools to find the right fit for your child
📚 Final Thoughts: Year 6 is a significant year with various assessments depending on the educational pathway chosen. Whether taking KS2 SATs, 11+ exams, Common Entrance tests, or a combination, early preparation, strong support, and maintaining a healthy balance are key to success. Remember that these exams are just one step in a child's educational journey - the right school is one where they will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Year 6 entrance exams and assessments in the UK. Specific dates, test formats, and requirements vary by region, local authority, and individual schools. Always verify information with official sources: your local authority for 11+ tests, the Standards and Testing Agency for KS2 SATs, ISEB for Common Entrance, and individual independent schools for their specific requirements. Information is accurate as of October 2025 and subject to change.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Sources: Standards and Testing Agency (STA), Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB), Local Authority 11+ Information, UK Department for Education