Quick Answer
GL Assessment (Granada Learning) provides 11+ entrance exams for over 80% of grammar schools in England. The exam tests English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, typically taken in September of Year 6. Unlike CEM, GL publishes official practice materials, making focused preparation possible.
What is GL Assessment?
GL Assessment is the UK's leading provider of 11+ entrance examinations. Founded as Granada Learning, the company has provided educational assessments for over 40 years and now serves the majority of grammar schools across England.
Key Facts About GL Assessment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Share | 80%+ of grammar schools |
| Test Format | Paper-based or computer-based |
| Subjects Tested | English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning |
| Question Types | Multiple choice (primarily) |
| Practice Materials | Officially published |
Which Regions Use GL Assessment?
GL Assessment 11+ exams are used across numerous regions in England:
GL Assessment Regions
- Buckinghamshire - All grammar schools
- Kent - Most grammar schools
- Lincolnshire - All grammar schools
- Gloucestershire - All grammar schools
- Warwickshire - Grammar schools
- Wiltshire - Grammar schools
- Northern Ireland - Transfer test (AQE uses GL)
- Birmingham - King Edward's schools
- Wolverhampton - Grammar schools
Note: Some regions use both GL and CEM. Always verify with your target school.
GL Assessment Test Format
Standard Paper Structure
GL typically uses separate papers for each subject:
English Paper (45-50 minutes)
- Reading comprehension
- Spelling and punctuation
- Grammar and vocabulary
- Multiple choice and standard format answers
Mathematics Paper (45-50 minutes)
- Numerical operations
- Problem-solving
- Data handling
- Shape and space
Verbal Reasoning Paper (45-50 minutes)
- Word relationships and codes
- Logic problems and sequences
- 21 distinct question types
Non-Verbal Reasoning Paper (45-50 minutes)
- Pattern recognition
- Spatial awareness
- Sequences and odd-one-out
GL Verbal Reasoning: 21 Question Types
Familiarity with each type is essential:
Word Meaning Questions
- Closest Meaning - Find the synonym
- Opposite Meaning - Find the antonym
- Odd One Out - Identify the word that doesn't belong
- Word Connections - Link words by meaning
Code Questions
- Letter Codes - Decode encrypted words
- Number Codes - Decode using number patterns
- Letter-Number Codes - Combined coding systems
Sequence & Logic Questions
- Word Sequences - Complete the pattern
- Alphabet Sequences - Letter pattern completion
- Number Sequences - Find the next number
- Compound Words - Create words from parts
- Hidden Words - Find words within sentences
How to Prepare for GL Assessment
Recommended Timeline
| Time Before Exam | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| 18+ months (Year 4) | Build English/Maths foundations, daily reading |
| 12 months (Year 5) | Begin formal preparation, introduce reasoning |
| 6 months (Summer Y5) | Full timed papers, address weak areas |
| Exam month (Sept Y6) | Light revision, exam technique, manage stress |
Top Preparation Strategies
- Use Official GL Materials - Most accurate representation of the real test
- Master Time Management - Don't spend too long on any question
- Build Vocabulary Systematically - 5-10 new words daily
- Practice Under Exam Conditions - Timed, distraction-free sessions
Scoring and Results
GL uses standardised scores to compare children fairly:
- Standardised Score Range: 69-141
- Average Score: 100
- Typical Grammar School Threshold: 111-121+
Pass marks vary by region and competition level each year.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Preparation Mistakes
- Starting too late (cramming in Year 6)
- Over-preparation leading to burnout
- Ignoring weak areas
- Not using official materials
Exam Day Mistakes
- Misreading instructions
- Rushing without checking
- Leaving blanks (educated guesses are better)
- Getting stuck on difficult questions
Next Steps
- Identify your target schools and confirm they use GL Assessment
- Check registration dates for your region
- Purchase official GL practice materials
- Create a realistic preparation schedule
- Try ExamPrepd's free trial for adaptive online practice
Need more practice? ExamPrepd offers adaptive 11+ practice with GL-style questions at just £59/year - a fraction of the cost of other platforms.
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