Do the entry requirements differ across senior schools?
Discover how to navigate senior school admissions, from 11 plus exams to 13 plus tuition for top schools including Eton, Radley, and Millfield.
Applying to senior schools in the private education sector is a big step for families. Each school has its own admissions process, and understanding the differences can help you prepare your child with confidence. Whether your child is preparing for 11 plus exams or the more traditional 13 plus exams, the right preparation and guidance, such as 11 plus** or 13 plus tuition, can make all the difference.
11 Plus Exams: Year 7 Entry
Some senior schools offer entry at Year 7, requiring students to sit 11 plus exams in English, Maths, and Reasoning. This is a common route for families looking at schools that combine strong academics with breadth in extracurricular opportunities.
Let’s use Millfield School as an example of the likely Year 7 application requirements. Entry at 11+ involves English, maths, and reasoning tests, alongside an interview. The school places great emphasis not just on academics but also on sport, music, and creativity, making it a valuable talking point in the interview portion of an application.
Other selective day schools also use the 11 plus exams as a gateway into senior school, often followed by interviews or group tasks to assess character and collaboration.
Specialist 11 plus tuition can help children strengthen exam technique while building the resilience and confidence needed for interviews and assessments.
13 Plus Exams: The Traditional Route
The 13 plus exams remain the most traditional entry point for many prestigious boarding schools, particularly for boys. This route often involves pre-tests in Year 6 or 7, followed by the Common Entrance exams in Year 8. The following are examples of schools that use this approach:
Eton College: Applicants typically sit the ISEB Common Pre-Tests in Year 6. Successful candidates are then invited for an interview and an assessment day. Final entry at 13+ usually requires sitting Common Entrance or Eton’s own entrance papers.
Radley College: Entry is also through the ISEB pre-tests in Year 6, followed by Common Entrance at 13+. Radley places emphasis on character and potential, and interviews are a key part of the process.
Millfield School: In addition to 11+, Millfield offers entry at 13+, usually through Common Entrance or the school’s own assessments. Again, sport and personal strengths are highly valued alongside academic performance.
Targeted 13 plus tuition helps children prepare for the demands of Common Entrance and the specific requirements of schools such as Eton or Radley, ensuring they can perform confidently across a broad range of subjects.
It’s important to remember that it’s not just about the academics. While exams form the backbone of the process, schools like Eton, Radley, and Millfield are just as interested in the whole child. Achievements in sport, music, drama, and leadership are often taken into account. Schools want students who will contribute fully to the life of the community, not just succeed in the classroom.
Final Thoughts
Senior school admissions can feel daunting, but with the right support, whether for 11 plus exams or 13 plus tuition, families can approach this journey with confidence. Each school has its own unique process, so understanding the specific requirements for your chosen schools, and preparing accordingly, is essential. Bespoke services such as Stratum Tutoring can streamline this process, and do the heavy-lifting for you. You can book a free consultation today.