West Midlands Grammar Schools - Go Home

The Entrance Test

The test is provided by GL Assessment. Candidates will sit two papers, each approximately 50-60 minutes long (which includes time for instructions and example questions). Each test paper is divided into smaller individually timed sections that test:

  • English Comprehension
  • Verbal Reasoning
  • Mathematics
  • Non-Verbal/Spatial Reasoning.

There are no sections of writing within the test - all questions are multiple choice and children record their answers on a separate answer sheet. The weightings for the test results are 50% for English/verbal reasoning, 25% for non-verbal reasoning and 25% for mathematics. The scores for each section are standardised to take into account differences in age, meaning younger children are not disadvantaged compared to children in the same cohort who could be almost a year older. Familiarisation questions can be found at the bottom of this page which show the style of questions to appear in the test and how answers must be recorded.

Other information about the test

  • There is a short comfort break between the two test papers. Children may bring some light refreshments for the break period (no nuts/nut based products, chewing gum or fizzy drinks).
  • Children should bring their own stationery (two HB pencils, an eraser and a sharpener). We request that these are brought in a clear pencil case or clear food bag/zip lock bag. No other stationery such as rulers or highlighters are permitted. A small supply of spare stationery will be available in each room.
  • The test instructions, example & practice questions and timings are delivered via audio CD. Prior to each section beginning, candidates are advised how long they will have to work on that section. Candidates can only work on the current section and cannot revisit a previous section or move on to the next section until told to do so. In sections lasting more than five minutes, candidates will be advised via the audio CD when they have five minutes remaining.
  • Watches/timers/stop clocks of any kind are not permitted in the test. A clock will be present in the room.
  • Mobile phones, calculators, smart watches, tablets, iPods will not be allowed in or around the test rooms. Any failure to comply with this may lead to disqualification.
  • Your child does not need to wear school uniform when attending the test.
  • Parents/Carers cannot wait on-site during the test.
  • Space is available within the question booklets for children to do any working out. Rough/scrap paper cannot be used. Question booklets are not marked - only the separate answer sheets are marked. It is important that your child is aware of how to answer the questions on the separate answer sheet.
  • Children will be able to use toilet facilities before the test and during the break. In the event that a candidate has to use the facilities during the test, any time spent away from the test room is lost.