11 Plus results 2026: pass marks explained

11 Plus results are mostly standardised – this removes variable elements from test scores and allows children to be compared equally. There are several ways that those variables are taken into account, and you can learn about them here.

How are the 11+ results calculated?

There are three variables considered when standardising your child’s 11 Plus score:

Different test papers

Rather than adding up the marks of each paper, the standardisation process means each paper is given equal weight in your child’s overall 11+ results.

Your child’s age

Exam boards and schools recognise that an age difference can have a significant impact on ability. On average a child’s vocabulary can increase by 1000 words in just one year!

Difficulty of the paper

Examining bodies will ensure that the pass mark is reflective of the difficulty of the paper. If the paper is considered to be less difficult than the previous year then the pass mark would be higher to ensure that there aren’t more students passing than places available.

How does 11 Plus standardisation work?

Below is a section of a standardisation table that examining bodies use to calculate the 11+ results' score. Your child’s marks on the paper (eg. 30 out of 40) are the raw score, which you can see on the left side of the table. The raw score and your child’s age are compared to determine their 11 Plus results score. A point score will be set as the pass mark, taking into account the difficulty of the paper.

When are the 11+ results released?

The exact dates of the 11+ results vary from school to school, but they'll mostly be released from mid-October until the end of October. Below, you can see when 11 Plus results will be released in your area.

Keep in mind that some schools require a Second Stage entrance exam, which your child will be invited to take if they pass their initial 11 Plus exam.

What happens after 11 Plus results are released?

My child passed…

Congratulations, it’s time for applications! Passing the 11 Plus doesn’t guarantee school placements as admission policies vary by school. They may prefer students who already have siblings at the school and will consider how far away you live and whether your child receives free school meals. So try applying to multiple schools to avoid disappointment.

My child didn’t pass…

If your child didn’t pass, they may still be awarded a place through the appeals system, so be sure to check appeals requirements with the school. Your child won’t be alone in this, as there can be up to 8 applications for every 1 place. There will still be many options for a rich education in your local area, so consider your options and remember that we’re always here to help.

Next steps…

Whichever path you take from here, secondary school is an exciting and challenging time. Your Explore Learning tutors are here to help with the leap, so your child can take on the challenge fearlessly.

Get the 11+ exam results you want with Explore Learning

11 Plus tuition can ensure your child has all the right support to prepare for their exams. Whilst getting a tutor doesn’t automatically guarantee good 11+ results, it ensures your child has the right support, is able to ask any questions, and can partake in numerous related exercises, covering all 11 Plus subjects. This maximises their chances of succeeding in their 11 Plus exams and at secondary school.