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Region guide

Buckinghamshire 11 Plus Guide

Buckinghamshire is a fully selective area: every state secondary either is a grammar or operates alongside one. The Bucks 11+ is taken by all Year 5/6 pupils unless opted out, and admits to thirteen grammar schools.

The Buckinghamshire 11 Plus at a glance

The Buckinghamshire test is set by GL Assessment. Two papers, multiple-choice. Combined standardised score of 121+ qualifies.

Children are assessed in Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Mathematics. Knowing the exact format matters, because preparing in the wrong style wastes valuable practice time.

  • Exam provider: GL Assessment
  • Subjects tested: Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Mathematics
  • Format: Two papers, multiple-choice. Combined standardised score of 121+ qualifies.

Local arrangements to watch

Tested in early September of Year 6, designed to be "tutor-resistant" with broad coverage.

Dates, qualifying scores and registration deadlines vary by school and change each year, so always confirm the current details with your target schools or local consortium.

Grammar schools in Buckinghamshire

We list 11 schools for Buckinghamshire. They include Aylesbury Grammar School, Aylesbury High School, Beaconsfield High School, Burnham Grammar School, Chesham Grammar School. Entry requirements and catchment rules differ between schools, so check each school admissions policy before you apply.

How to prepare for the Buckinghamshire 11 Plus

Strong preparation is steady rather than last minute. Build secure foundations first, then practise in the exact GL Assessment style this region uses so the question types feel familiar on the day.

  • Confirm the format and subjects above, then practise only in that style
  • Read widely every day and grow vocabulary across the whole year
  • Secure arithmetic and times tables so number work is fast and accurate
  • Move from untimed practice to full timed papers in the final months
  • Sit regular mock exams to build pace and reduce exam day nerves

Practise in the Buckinghamshire format

Book a live, invigilated mock exam in the right style and get a standardised score, section breakdown and UK-wide ranking. Your first mock is free.