For families considering a move to the UK, understanding the different types of schools available is an important part of the relocation process. One option you may come across is a grammar school, a type of state-funded secondary school that selects pupils based on academic ability.
Grammar schools can be an appealing choice for families looking for an academically focused education, but securing a place is not always straightforward. Here's what parents need to know about how the system works, where grammar schools are located and how to navigate the admissions process.
What is a grammar school?
Grammar schools are state-funded secondary schools that select pupils based on academic ability. Unlike most state schools, entry is dependent on passing an entrance examination, commonly known as the 11+.
Children typically sit the examination in Year 6, aged 10–11, before moving into secondary school in Year 7. Grammar schools are free to attend, but competition for places can be high.
It's worth noting that grammar schools are not available throughout the UK. In England, selective education is concentrated in certain areas, including Kent, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire and parts of Essex and London.
What is the 11+?
The 11+ is an entrance assessment used to determine whether a child meets the academic requirements for selective secondary education.
There is no single national 11+ examination. The format varies between areas and schools, but assessments may include:
English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary and written English.
Mathematics: Numerical skills and problem-solving.
Verbal reasoning: Understanding words, language and patterns.
Non-verbal reasoning: Identifying patterns and relationships using shapes and images.
Parents should always check the specific examination requirements for their preferred schools, as the content, format and registration arrangements can differ.
When should you start preparing?
Families need to understand that the same criteria applies to state grammar as for a regular state application with councils and schools will expect the child to have a permanent UK address at the point in time that they apply. In most cases we would need to prove that the child is living at that address within the locality of the school.
Planning ahead is particularly important when considering grammar schools. Although the 11+ is usually taken in Year 6, preparation and research should begin well before this, ideally during Year 5.
Families need to consider examination dates, registration deadlines and individual school admissions criteria. This is especially important for families relocating to the UK, where it can be easy to miss key application windows if you are unfamiliar with the system.
The 11+ is the main entry point into grammar school, and families should not assume that an opportunity to sit the examination will be available at a later date.
How competitive are grammar school places?
Grammar school places are highly sought after, and passing the 11+ does not necessarily guarantee a place at your preferred school.
To put this into perspective, 16,876 children sat the Kent Test in 2025, with 5,035 assessed as suitable for grammar school.
Even when a child achieves the required standard, admission is not automatic. Parents must still list their preferred grammar schools on their secondary school application, and places are allocated according to each school's individual admissions criteria.
These may include academic results, catchment areas, distance from the school and other published priorities. Grammar schools are often oversubscribed, so understanding the admissions policy is just as important as preparing for the examination.
Choosing the right grammar school
Passing the 11+ is only one part of the process. As with any school search, it's important to look beyond academic results and consider whether a school is the right fit for your child.
Location, school environment, extracurricular opportunities and your child's individual needs should all form part of the decision. Some grammar schools have particularly defined geographical admissions areas, so where you choose to live can also influence your options.
For families relocating to the UK, we recommend researching potential schools alongside your preferred residential locations to make sure your expectations are realistic.
How can Educatus help?
Navigating grammar school admissions can feel complicated, particularly for families who are new to the UK education system.
At Educatus, we help families understand their options, identify suitable schools and navigate the admissions process. Whether you're considering grammar schools, exploring other state-funded options or comparing independent schools, our consultants can help you find the right educational pathway for your child.
Thinking about grammar schools for your child? Get in touch with the Educatus team to discuss your options and how we can help with your school search.
Visit our Services page for all available options.