Birmingham grammar schools 11+: the King Edward VI Foundation test
The King Edward VI Foundation arranges the 11+ for Birmingham's eight grammar schools. The test is shared with grammar schools across the West Midlands, so one sitting covers 19 schools.
An independent guide by EagleTeach, based on the school's published admissions pages. We are not affiliated with King Edward VI grammar schools, Birmingham; always confirm details with the school.
Entry points and deadlines
The eight Birmingham schools: Bishop Vesey's Grammar School, King Edward VI Aston, Camp Hill School for Boys, Camp Hill School for Girls, Five Ways, Handsworth School for Girls, Handsworth Grammar School for Boys and Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls.
Register through the West Midlands Grammar Schools website in Year 5; tick the boxes to share results with Shropshire, Walsall, Warwickshire or Wolverhampton schools.
Every school gives some priority to Pupil Premium applicants; each school's own admissions policy sets out how places are offered.
Families living far away may be asked for evidence of an intention to relocate.
Testing
Provided by GL Assessment: two papers of about 60 minutes, split into timed sections of English comprehension, verbal reasoning, maths and non-verbal or spatial reasoning.
All multiple choice on a separate answer sheet, with no writing.
Weighting: 50% English and verbal reasoning, 25% non-verbal reasoning and 25% maths, age-standardised.
Children can sit the test only once.
Key dates for September 2027 entry
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| By 4pm on 26 June 2026 | Registration closed |
| End of July 2026 | Session (AM or PM) confirmed |
| Saturday 12 September 2026 | Entrance test |
| October 2026 | Results, before the 31 October application deadline |
| 1 March 2027 | National Offer Day |
How to prepare
- ✓ English and verbal reasoning are half the score: read widely and build vocabulary.
- ✓ Practise the multiple-choice answer sheet and the short timed sections.
- ✓ Read each school's policy: qualifying and priority scores differ by school.
Need help with the tests? 11+ tutoring in Birmingham, 11+ exam dates by area or standardised scores explained.
Common questions
How many grammar schools are in Birmingham?＋
Eight, all using the King Edward VI Foundation test.
How is the Birmingham 11+ weighted?＋
50% English and verbal reasoning, 25% non-verbal reasoning and 25% maths.
When is the Birmingham 11+?＋
Saturday 12 September 2026 for September 2027 entry.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on 2026-10-13.