🗓 SECTION 3: The Application Process: When & How to Apply

“Timing isn’t just important — it’s everything.”

📣 Why This Section Matters

You could do all the prep. Your child could smash every practice test.
But if you miss one key date — it could all fall through.

This section gives you the full roadmap from Year 4 to Offer Day — so you never have to wonder, “Are we too late?”

🏁 The 11+ Timeline at a Glance

YearWhat’s HappeningYear 4Early prep begins — optional but powerful. Explore schools. Start building core skills.Year 5💥 The core prep year. Register for exams. Visit schools. Begin focused training.Year 6Sit the exam. Submit school preferences. Results and offers released.

⏰ Key Deadlines (You Can’t Miss)

  • 📝 Register for 11+ Exam: April–June (Year 5)

  • 🧪 Exam Day: Usually early September (Year 6)

  • 📬 Results Released: Mid–Late October

  • 🏫 CAF Form Due: October 31st (Year 6)

  • 📣 Offer Day: March 1st (Year 6)

Coach Tip: Set calendar reminders 1 month before every major date. Life gets busy — we keep your timeline sharp.

📋 What You Need to Do — Step-by-Step

1️⃣ Research Grammar Schools

  • Make a shortlist: Academic vibe? Distance? All-boys/girls? Support structure?

  • Check their website: Format, exam board, catchment rules

  • Check how many stages they use (some have Stage 1 and Stage 2)

2️⃣ Register for the 11+ Exam

  • Most schools or consortiums require separate registration

  • Forms usually open: April / May (Year 5)

  • Close: June / July

  • Register directly on each school or consortium’s site

  • 📍 Some areas (like Kent or Bucks) use one central registration system

3️⃣ Attend Open Days (Optional — but we recommend it)

✔ See if your child connects with the environment
✔ Ask staff about support, pressure, results
✔ Get a feel for the culture, not just the grades

🕓 Usually held in late spring or summer of Year 5

4️⃣ Sit the 11+ Exam

🗓 Usually held in early September of Year 6

✍️ Format will vary (MCQs, written papers, Stage 2 tests)

⏱ Time pressure is real — make sure your child has practised under real conditions

5️⃣ Submit Your School Preferences (CAF Form)

  • Submit your CAF (Common Application Form) to your Local Authority

  • Deadline: October 31st

  • You can list up to 6 schools — mix grammar + backup comprehensives

  • 🎯 Important: List schools in true order of preference, not just based on 11+ results

Coach Tip: You don’t need to wait for results to submit this form — list your dream school first. If your child qualifies, they’ll be offered a place based on ranking + criteria.

6️⃣ Offer Day

🗓 March 1st — you’ll receive your school offer

You can:

  • ✅ Accept the place

  • 🔁 Go on a waiting list

  • 📞 File an appeal (if eligible)

📎 You Might Be Asked For:

  • Proof of address (council tax bill, utility bill)

  • Child’s birth certificate

  • SEN or medical documentation (if relevant)

  • Any supplementary forms (for faith schools)

🧭 Summary Checklist for Parents

✔ Know your target schools
✔ Register for the right exams
✔ Don’t miss the registration window
✔ Visit schools if you can
✔ Help your child prep in a smart, sustainable way
✔ Submit the CAF form by October 31st — no matter what
✔ Prepare emotionally for Plan A or Plan B after results