The 13 plus exam is a key step for students aiming to move into selective secondary schools at year 9 in the UK. It measures academic ability in subjects like English, maths, science and sometimes languages or reasoning. 

Many parents and students find the process confusing, but understanding how this exam works, what topics your child needs to study and how to prepare can make a big difference to their confidence and results.

If your child is about to sit the 13 Plus Exam, knowing what to expect is essential. They'll need strong skills in reading, writing, maths and sometimes specialist subjects at the school. Getting familiar with the types of questions and practising with past papers can really help your child feel ready and avoid stress on test day.

As a prep school whose pupils go onto many prestigious secondary schools in and around the London area, we'll share key information and guidance on 13 plus exams and how your child can ace them.

Understanding the 13 plus exams

The 13 plus and Common Entrance exams are often required to secure a place at a top secondary independent or grammar school in the UK. These exams test students' readiness for senior school by assessing skills across several academic areas.

What are the 13 plus and Common Entrance exams?

The 13 plus (13+) exam is a set of entrance tests most often taken in Year 8, when pupils are around 12 or 13 years old. The exams are mainly used by UK independent schools and some grammar schools as part of their entry process for new students joining in Year 9.

The Common Entrance exam, overseen by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB), is the most widely recognised version. There are three difficulty levels -- Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 -- with Level 2 the most common. Some schools may also use their own papers or late transfer tests like the 12 plus and late grammar school testing.

This exam pathway measures academic ability, reasoning skills and critical thinking. Pupils might also encounter assessments such as the Cognitive Abilities Test or the Common Pretest before the Common Entrance.

Exam structure and key subjects

The 13+ exam typically includes tests in several subjects:

• English: comprehension (often using literary prose), analysis and creative writing.
• Mathematics: often covers written maths, arithmetic, problem solving, inverse operations, metric units and geometric terminology.
• Science: includes topics like atoms, elements and compounds; the structure and function of living organisms; genetics and evolution; gas exchange systems and cellular respiration.
• Humanities: covering history, geography and religious studies (depending on school requirements).
• Languages: French, Spanish, German or Latin may be tested.
• Reasoning: verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning.

Each exam paper usually lasts between 40 and 60 minutes, though this may vary. The focus is on depth of understanding as well as accuracy.

Types of schools and entry pathways

Most UK independent schools require the 13+ or Common Entrance as part of their admissions process for Year 9. Grammar schools may use a late transfer test or the 12 plus. Prep schools like St Martin's prepare you for these exams and coordinate entry with prestigious senior schools.

There are three main school types that use these exams:

• Independent schools: often use the full Common Entrance suite.
• Grammar schools: may use late transfer tests (like 12 plus or specific 13+ tests).
• Senior schools and secondary schools: some have direct assessment days or interviews alongside formal papers.

Entry can involve interviews, reference checks and sometimes further assessment in co-curricular areas such as the debating society, choral society, drama club or participation in science laboratories. Each school’s process may be slightly different, so check their admissions guidance.

Preparation and success strategies

Getting ready for the 13 plus exams requires careful planning and smart revision. Focusing on key steps early, choosing the right resources and following proven strategies can help you approach the test with more confidence.

Registration and application process

Start by checking the registration deadlines for each school you want to apply to. Most schools need a completed registration form and sometimes a school report, so gather these documents early.

Some schools set a specific test date and may have set exam sitting centres. Others allow for more flexibility. After you submit your child's forms, you might be placed on a waiting list if there are too many applicants. It’s useful to track all your application steps in a table or checklist so you don’t miss anything.

For some schools, the application process may also include interviews as part of the assessment. Make sure you know what is expected for each school and follow up if you are unsure. Keeping all emails and notes from the admissions office organised will make things easier later.

Effective study planning

A well-structured study timetable is key to steady progress. Your child should aside regular study time each day or week, breaking big topics into smaller, manageable tasks.

To make things feel more digestible, they can list out all subjects including English, maths, science and any extra topics like modern languages or humanities. Prioritising revising topics they find hardest will boost their confidence ahead of the exam.

Example daily study plan:

Time	Activity
4pm--4:45pm	Maths practice
5pm--5:30pm	English revision
5:45pm--6:15pm	Science notes review

Pupils should build in breaks and days off to look after their wellbeing and continue adjusting their timetable as they get closer to the exam.

Exam technique and revision

Effective revision strategies can boost pupils' confidence. They can practise answering different question types, especially under timed conditions, to get familiar with the pace of the 13 plus test.

They should read questions carefully and underline key words or instructions. Instead of skipping difficult sections, they should try to find ways to solve them, or ask for help from you or their teachers.

Practising writing longer answers for essay or comprehension sections and using listening exercises is good preparation for language exams. Focusing on exam techniques such as checking their answers and managing their time with a watch or clock prepares them for exam conditions.

Using past papers and practice resources

Completing past papers is one of the best ways to prepare. They are in the exact format and question style expected in the exam. It's wise to collect sample papers and mark schemes from school websites or reputable platforms.

Taking at least one or two full mock exams under timed conditions as the test date approaches is a good way to prepare. Pupils should review their answers to spot patterns in mistakes and weaker areas.

Frequently asked questions

To prepare for the 13+ exams, your child can access a range of preparation resources, register before set deadlines, and check official sites for current exam dates. Past papers are easy to find online, and the test structure differs depending on region and school.

What materials are available for effective preparation for the 13 plus exams?

Your child can use study guides, textbooks, online courses, practice questions and sample papers. Many websites offer subject-specific resources with answers to help them review each topic.

Some tutoring centres and schools also provide comprehensive resources for 13 Plus exam preparation. These include expert tips and revision strategies.

How does the registration process for the 13 plus exams work and what are the deadlines?

You need to register your child for the 13 Plus exams through the chosen school or a designated registration website. Most schools set specific registration windows, so check with each one.

Registration often opens many months in advance. Be sure to apply as early as possible to guarantee a place, as registration details and deadlines are set by each school or exam board.

How is the 13 plus exam structured for students applying to grammar schools?

The 13 Plus exam for grammar schools generally tests English, mathematics, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. The focus is on skills and knowledge expected at this age group.

The structure and weight of each section can vary, so it is important to review the requirements listed by the local grammar schools, as they may adjust content based on their admissions policies for the 13+ test.