QEGS selects on the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test in rank order rather than against a fixed pass mark. Any target score quoted online is an estimate, and the mark that qualifies moves with each year's cohort. Prepare across every component under timed conditions, and take the school's own admissions policy for your entry year as the authority.

For context: 83.6% of families in England were offered their first-preference secondary school for September 2026 entry, and 92.4% their first-preference primary. — DfE, School applications and offers, 2026

Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School (QEGS) stands as a beacon of academic excellence in the United Kingdom, celebrated for its enduring tradition of success. For students aiming to join this prestigious institution, the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test is a critical step. This blog post explores the nuances of the exam, including pass marks and target scores, and offers guidance on effective preparation strategies.

What Is the 11+ Exam?

The 11+ exam at QEGS is a gateway for prospective students, designed to evaluate their academic prowess and potential. Here, we delve into the specifics of the exam's scoring system and the implications for applicants.

What are exam pass marks?

The pass marks for the QEGS 11+ exam are subject to annual adjustments, reflecting the applicant pool and overall candidate performance. Generally, a high score is mandatory for consideration:

- The school sets a minimum score for each exam section.

- An overall pass mark is also determined.

What are target scores?

Beyond merely passing the exam, understanding target scores can significantly bolster a student's chances of admission:

- Target scores are set to benchmark a top percentile performance.

- Aiming for these scores can enhance admission prospects.

What are preparation strategies?

Achieving success in the QEGS 11+ exam requires meticulous preparation and a strategic approach. This section covers essential preparation tips and resources provided by the school.

What is exam format and content?

To excel in the 11+ exam, students must first familiarize themselves with its format and content. This involves understanding the types of questions and the subjects tested.

How do you study tips and resources?

QEGS offers numerous resources to aid students in their preparation:

- Practice exams to simulate test conditions.

- Revision guides that cover key topics.

- Access to faculty and staff for guidance and support.

Developing effective study habits and leveraging these resources can make a significant difference in a student's performance.

What is the beyond the exam?

While the 11+ exam is crucial, QEGS evaluates prospective students holistically. The school considers various factors in its admissions decisions:

- Academic records and achievements.

- Participation in extracurricular activities.

- Personal qualities and character.

What should you do next?

Understanding the 11+ exam's pass and target scores is vital for anyone preparing to apply to Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School. However, achieving high scores, while essential, is just part of the journey. Students must also demonstrate well-rounded excellence and take full advantage of the school's preparatory resources. With thorough preparation and a strong academic and personal profile, students can aspire to join the ranks of QEGS's distinguished alumni.

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about a particular school?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and republishes them every year, so the detail here can go out of date within a cycle. Confirm against the school’s own admissions policy and gov.uk school admissions before you rely on any date.

Every school publishes its own rule, and the national position is short:

“All schools have admission criteria to decide which children get places.” — gov.uk, School admissions

Where can you check this at source?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each grammar school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and publishes them in an admissions policy that changes year to year. Always confirm with the school directly, then check the national rules: