Birmingham 11+ (King Edward VI & Grammar Schools) — Parent Guide
The Birmingham 11+ is the shared entrance exam used by the King Edward VI grammar schools and other Birmingham grammar schools. Sat at the start of Year 6, it is one of the most competitive 11+ exams in the country.
What the Birmingham 11+ tests
- ✓English — comprehension, grammar and vocabulary
- ✓Maths — arithmetic and problem solving
- ✓Verbal and non-verbal reasoning
Format & key facts
Exam board: GL Assessment, used by the Birmingham grammar consortium.
Sat in September at the start of Year 6.
Covers English, Maths and reasoning in a standardised, multiple-choice style.
Places are highly competitive, so scores well above the qualifying line are often needed.
Exact dates, deadlines and scores change each year — always confirm on the official Birmingham admissions website.
Grammar schools in Birmingham
Examples of grammar schools that select using the Birmingham 11+:
How to prepare for the Birmingham 11+
- 💡Competition is fierce — aim for consistent high accuracy, not just a passing score.
- 💡Cover all four areas; reasoning speed often separates candidates.
- 💡Simulate the multiple-choice, tightly timed format so pace becomes second nature.
Unlimited Birmingham 11+ practice
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Birmingham 11+ — questions parents ask
Which schools use the Birmingham 11+?▸
The King Edward VI grammar schools (including Camp Hill, Aston and Handsworth) and other Birmingham-area grammar schools use the shared GL-based entrance exam.
When is the Birmingham 11+ taken?▸
It is sat in September at the start of Year 6. Check the King Edward VI Schools admissions site for the current year’s dates and registration deadline.
How competitive is the Birmingham 11+?▸
Very. Places are heavily oversubscribed, so children usually need scores comfortably above the qualifying threshold to secure a place.