Last reviewed: 17 July 2026
What does GL Assessment mean?
GL Assessment is one of the UK's leading providers of admissions tests for grammar and independent schools. Its 11+ assessments may cover English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning, depending on the requirements of the school or local area. For examples of the types of questions children may encounter, access our 11+ practice papers.
Which regions use GL Assessment?
GL Assessment is used by many grammar schools and local consortia, but the test provider, subjects and format can change. Always check the current admissions guidance from your target school or local authority. The official GL Assessment 11+ guidance explains how local tests may differ.
Subjects in the GL Assessment
Past GL Assessment exams have consisted of two papers, typically 45-50 minutes each. Each paper is broken down into individually timed sections covering Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning and Spatial Awareness; although schools can choose any combination of these to suit their selection policy. GL Assessment uses 21 different Verbal Reasoning question types and can incorporate any into the exam. We recommend children familiarise themselves with each of these in advance of the test.
Format of the GL Assessment
The GL transfer test has a varying number of multiple-choice style questions and timings for each section. Once the time in each section has elapsed, children will not get the opportunity to re-visit a section. All answers are marked on a separate answer sheet.
How can KSOL help your child prepare for the GL Assessment
Preparing for the GL Assessment 11+ entrance exam is a unique journey and each child has a different set of goals. For this reason, KSOL ensure that our 11plus online tuition programmes are tailored specifically to suit areas for improvement, with weaker topics targeted in future tests. Furthermore, each child will be allocated a qualified 11+ tutor whom parents may contact over the phone or via email regarding their progress.
In the 11+ entrance exam, time management skills are essential. That’s why all of our Year 5 online tests are timed, helping children to manage their time effectively. Speed and accuracy skills are also tested using our ‘Beat the Clock’ tests, encouraging your child to beat their past score each week!
Please note that the information on this page was believed to be accurate at the time of publication.
However, KSOL always recommends checking with the individual school websites or contacting your local consortium of grammar schools before acting upon any information given.
Speak to an education adviser on 0121 733 6558 regarding the best 11plus options for your child. We’re here to help!