GL vs CEM 11+: What's the Difference?

A parent's guide · The Exam Revision Club

One of the first things that surprises parents is that the “11+” isn't a single national exam. Different areas and schools use different exam providers, and the format your child sits depends on where you are. Here's what the main ones mean — in plain English.

GL Assessment — the most common

GL is the most widely used 11+ provider in England. Its papers are standardised and multiple-choice, typically covering four areas: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Many grammar-school regions use GL-style tests, so if you're not sure what your area uses, GL is the most likely starting point — and the best all-round preparation.

CEM (Durham University)

CEM was historically used in areas such as Birmingham, Warwickshire and Bexley, and was designed to feel less “coachable,” mixing question types within timed sections. Importantly, CEM has been withdrawn from 11+ testing, and the regions that used it have been moving to other providers. If your area previously used CEM, check what it uses for the current cycle.

ISEB

The Independent Schools Examinations Board runs the Common Pre-Test (an online, adaptive test used by many independent senior schools) and Common Entrance. If your child is applying to independent schools, this is the format you're most likely to meet.

Local & consortium tests

Some grammar schools and groups of schools set their own bespoke papers (certain London consortia, for example). Format and content vary, so always check the individual school.

What this means for your child

Here's the reassuring part: the underlying skills overlap far more than the formats differ. Whatever the board, children need the same foundations — comprehension, mental maths, reasoning and, above all, exam technique and timing. GL-style practice is the most common and gives strong general preparation for all of them. Just always confirm your target school's exact format on its admissions page before you start.

Not sure which applies to you? Check your school in our free look-up tool — type the school you're aiming for and we'll tell you how its format compares.