7 Plus Exam Schools: Top UK Schools & Entry (2026)
7 plus exam schools are some of the most competitive independent prep schools in the UK, with many located in London and surrounding areas. These schools use the 7+ entrance exam to assess children for entry into Year 3, with each school setting its own format, difficulty level, and selection process.
Understanding the differences between 7 plus exam schools is essential for parents, as entry requirements, exam styles, and competition can vary significantly. In this guide, we cover the top schools using the 7+, what to expect from their admissions process, and how to choose the right school for your child.
👉 If you’re new to the process, see our complete 7 plus exam guide to understand the full admissions journey.
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Page Contents
Top Schools Using the 7+ Exam
7 Plus Exam Schools in London
London is home to many of the UK’s most competitive 7 plus exam schools, with a high concentration of selective prep schools offering entry at Year 3. These schools use their own versions of the 7+ entrance exam, typically assessing children in English, maths, and sometimes reasoning, followed by interviews or assessment days.
Because demand is so high, places are limited and competition is strong. Many families apply to multiple 7 plus exam schools in London to maximise their chances of securing a place.
Top 7 Plus Exam Schools in London
- Some of the most well-known schools include:
- St Paul’s Juniors – Highly competitive, known for challenging maths and problem-solving questions
- Westminster Under School – Fast-paced exams with a strong focus on accuracy and reasoning
- King’s College Junior School (Wimbledon) – High volume of questions and time pressure
- Dulwich College (DUCKS) – Balanced assessment with English, maths, and reasoning
- Latymer Prep School – Broad and structured exam format, popular with many applicants
- Bancroft’s School – Strong focus on core maths and logical thinking
- City Junior School – Emphasis on applied maths and real-life problem solving
- Highgate School – Competitive entry with a well-rounded assessment process
What Makes London 7+ Schools Competitive
- Limited number of places available each year
- High number of applicants from across London
- Different exam formats for each school
- Additional interview and assessment stages
Tips for Applying to London 7+ Schools
- Apply to a mix of competitive and realistic schools
- Prepare early, ideally from Year 1
- Practise a variety of 7 plus exam papers to cover different formats
- Build confidence with mock exams and timed practice
Key takeaway: 7 plus exam schools in London are highly selective, and understanding each school’s exam style and expectations is key to making the right choices and preparing effectively.
7 plus exams schools list
7 Plus Exams Schools List
7 plus exams schools are selective independent prep schools that assess children for entry into Year 3. Each school sets its own entrance exam, but most include English, maths, and sometimes reasoning, followed by interviews or assessment days.
Below is a list of well-known 7 plus exams schools in the UK, particularly in London where competition is highest.
- St Paul’s Juniors – Highly competitive with a strong focus on problem-solving and advanced maths
- Westminster Under School – Fast-paced exams with an emphasis on accuracy and reasoning
- King’s College Junior School (Wimbledon) – Large number of questions and high time pressure
- Dulwich College (DUCKS) – Balanced assessment covering English, maths, and reasoning
- Latymer Prep School – Broad exam format with a mix of question types
- Bancroft’s School – Strong focus on core maths and logical thinking
- City Junior School – Emphasis on applied maths and real-life problem solving
- Highgate School – Well-rounded assessment with academic and interview stages
- Chigwell School – Structured exams with a focus on core skills and reasoning
- Alleyn’s School – Competitive entry with a mix of written tests and interviews
- Fulham School – Accessible but selective, with a balanced exam format
- Notting Hill & Ealing Junior School – Strong academic focus with well-structured assessments
This list of 7 plus exams schools highlights the range of options available, but each school has its own style, difficulty level, and expectations. Researching individual schools and preparing accordingly is key to success.
best 7 plus exam schools UK
The best 7 plus exam schools in the UK are highly selective independent prep schools known for strong academic results, excellent teaching, and pathways into top senior schools. Many of these schools are based in London, where competition for 7+ entry is particularly high.
Choosing the best 7 plus exam school depends on your child’s strengths, learning style, and long-term goals, but several schools consistently stand out for their reputation and results.
- St Paul’s Juniors – One of the most competitive 7+ schools in the UK, known for advanced maths and problem-solving
- Westminster Under School – Prestigious school with fast-paced exams and strong academic outcomes
- King’s College Junior School (Wimbledon) – High academic standards with a demanding exam format
- Dulwich College (DUCKS) – Well-rounded curriculum with a balanced entrance assessment
- Latymer Prep School – Popular choice with a structured and accessible exam style
- Bancroft’s School – Strong academic focus with emphasis on maths and reasoning
- City Junior School – Known for applied maths and real-world problem-solving questions
- Highgate School – Competitive entry with a broad and balanced assessment process
- Alleyn’s School – Strong academic reputation with a mix of written exams and interviews
- Chigwell School – Well-established school with structured 7+ assessments
These schools are considered among the best 7 plus exam schools in the UK due to their academic performance, reputation, and progression opportunities. However, the “best” school will ultimately depend on the right fit for your child, including location, teaching style, and overall environment.
7+ Entry Requirements by School
what is on the 7 plus exam for schools
The 7 plus exam for schools typically assesses a child’s ability in English, maths, and sometimes reasoning, along with an interview or assessment day. While each school sets its own paper, the overall structure is broadly similar across most 7+ entrance exams.
English
English assessments usually include:
- Comprehension (reading and answering questions)
- Creative writing (stories, descriptions, or short tasks)
- Spelling, punctuation, and grammar
These test a child’s ability to understand texts, express ideas clearly, and use accurate language.
Mathematics
Maths papers focus on both core skills and problem-solving, including:
- Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Word problems and multi-step questions
- Time, money, and measurement
- Basic geometry and shapes
Many schools include questions that go beyond standard classroom work, requiring logical thinking and application.
Reasoning (in some schools)
Some 7 plus exam schools include reasoning tests:
- Verbal reasoning (word patterns, codes, sequences)
- Non-verbal reasoning (shapes, patterns, visual logic)
These assess problem-solving ability rather than learned knowledge.
Interview and Assessment Day
Most schools also include an interview or assessment stage:
- One-to-one discussions with teachers
- Group activities to assess communication and teamwork
- Observation of confidence, curiosity, and behaviour
Key takeaway
The 7 plus exam for schools is not just about academic ability — it also tests problem-solving, thinking skills, and how well a child performs in a structured assessment environment.
7 plus entrance exams explained
7 plus entrance exams are selective tests used by independent prep schools in the UK to assess children applying for entry into Year 3. Taken in Year 2 (ages 6–7), these exams are designed to evaluate a child’s academic ability, problem-solving skills, and readiness for a more challenging school environment.
What Do 7 Plus Entrance Exams Include
Most 7 plus entrance exams include:
- English (comprehension and creative writing)
- Mathematics (calculation and problem-solving)
- Sometimes verbal and non-verbal reasoning
- An interview or assessment day
Each school sets its own exam, so the format and difficulty can vary.
How the 7 Plus Entrance Exam Process Works
The typical process includes:
- Registration in Year 1 or early Year 2
- Written exams between September and January
- Shortlisting based on exam performance
- Interviews or group assessments
- Final offers shortly after
Children often sit multiple exams for different schools.
Why 7 Plus Entrance Exams Are Competitive
- Limited places available
- High number of applicants
- Questions often go beyond standard Year 2 level
- Different exam styles across schools
Key takeaway
7 plus entrance exams are an early and competitive entry point into top prep schools. Understanding the format and preparing effectively helps children perform with confidence and gives them the best chance of success.
what is the 7 plus exam process
The 7 plus exam process is the series of steps children and parents go through when applying for entry into Year 3 at selective independent prep schools. While each school has its own approach, the overall process is broadly similar across most 7 plus exam schools.
Registration
Parents usually register their child in Year 1 or early Year 2. Some popular schools open registration well in advance, so it’s important to check deadlines early.
Written Exams
Children sit the 7 plus entrance exams between September and January of Year 2. These typically include English and maths papers, and sometimes reasoning tests.
Shortlisting
After the written exams, schools shortlist candidates based on performance. Only selected children move on to the next stage.
Interview and Assessment Day
Shortlisted candidates are invited for further assessment, which may include:
- One-to-one interviews
- Group activities
- Problem-solving tasks
Schools also assess confidence, communication, and behaviour.
Final Offers
Schools make offers shortly after the assessment stage. Parents usually need to accept or decline offers within a short timeframe.
Key takeaway
The 7 plus exam process involves registration, written tests, and interviews, with each stage designed to assess both academic ability and overall potential. Understanding the process early helps parents plan effectively and prepare their child with confidence.
Don’t let exam season become a source of stress. Help your child approach secondary school with a ‘can-do’ attitude Book a Free Trial Lesson to see how our supportive tutors build the confidence and mindset needed for peak performance
School-Specific 7+ Exam Differences
bancroft 7 plus exam
The Bancroft 7 plus exam is the entrance assessment used by Bancroft’s School for admission into Year 3. It is a competitive process designed to evaluate a child’s academic ability, problem-solving skills, and overall potential.
What Is on the Bancroft 7 Plus Exam
The exam typically includes:
- Mathematics – focusing on number skills, problem-solving, and logical thinking
- English – including comprehension and basic writing tasks
- Reasoning – in some cases, to assess logical and analytical ability
The questions are often more challenging than standard Year 2 work and require children to apply their knowledge in unfamiliar situations.
Exam Style and Difficulty
- The Bancroft 7 plus exam is known for:
- A structured and clear format
- Strong emphasis on maths and logical reasoning
- Questions that test understanding rather than memorisation
- A balance between straightforward and problem-solving questions
Interview and Assessment
Children who perform well in the written exam may be invited to an interview or further assessment. This can include:
- One-to-one discussions
- Problem-solving activities
- Observation of communication and confidence
Preparation Tips
To prepare for the Bancroft 7 plus exam:
- Practise a variety of 7 plus exam papers
- Focus on maths problem-solving and reasoning
- Build strong reading and comprehension skills
- Use timed practice to improve speed and accuracy
Key takeaway
The Bancroft 7 plus exam is competitive but structured, with a strong focus on maths and logical thinking. Consistent preparation and exposure to exam-style questions are key to performing well.
chigwell 7 plus exam
The Chigwell 7 plus exam is the entrance assessment used by Chigwell School for admission into Year 3. It is designed to assess a child’s academic ability, problem-solving skills, and readiness for a selective independent school environment.
What Is on the Chigwell 7 Plus Exam
The exam typically includes:
- English – comprehension and basic writing tasks
- Mathematics – core skills and problem-solving
- Sometimes reasoning questions
The focus is on applying knowledge rather than simple recall.
Exam Style and Difficulty
The Chigwell 7 plus exam is known for:
- A structured and accessible format
- Questions based on strong Year 2 foundations
- A mix of straightforward and problem-solving questions
- Emphasis on accuracy and clear thinking
Interview and Assessment
Children who perform well may be invited to the next stage, which can include:
- One-to-one interviews
- Group activities
- Observation of communication and confidence
Preparation Tips
To prepare effectively for the Chigwell 7 plus exam:
- Practise a range of 7 plus exam papers
- Focus on building strong maths and English foundations
- Develop problem-solving skills
- Use timed practice to improve speed and confidence
Key takeaway
The Chigwell 7 plus exam is structured and accessible but still competitive. Consistent preparation and familiarity with exam-style questions are key to success.
dulwich college 7 plus exam syllabus
The Dulwich College 7 plus exam syllabus is designed to assess a child’s academic ability, problem-solving skills, and overall potential for entry into Year 3. The exam is typically split into two stages and covers a combination of English, maths, and reasoning.
Subjects Covered in the Dulwich 7 Plus Exam
The syllabus usually includes:
- English – comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing
- Mathematics – number skills, problem-solving, and multi-step questions
- Verbal reasoning – word patterns, logic, and language-based reasoning
- Non-verbal reasoning – shapes, patterns, and spatial awareness
These areas are used to assess both academic knowledge and thinking ability.
Maths Focus and Key Topics
Dulwich places a strong emphasis on maths, with topics including:
- Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Fractions, decimals, and place value
- Multi-step word problems
- Logical and reasoning-based calculations
Maths is often the most heavily weighted subject, with a focus on applying knowledge rather than simple recall.
English Syllabus
The English component typically includes:
- Reading comprehension
- Creative writing tasks
- Spelling, punctuation, and grammar
Children are expected to demonstrate clear understanding, strong vocabulary, and the ability to express ideas effectively.
Reasoning Skills
Reasoning is an important part of the syllabus and may include:
- Verbal reasoning (codes, sequences, word logic)
- Non-verbal reasoning (patterns, shapes, spatial problems)
These questions test problem-solving ability rather than learned knowledge.
Level of Difficulty
Although based on the Year 2 curriculum, the Dulwich College 7 plus exam syllabus often includes:
- Extension topics from early Year 3
- More complex problem-solving
- Higher expectations in maths and reasoning
This makes the exam more challenging than standard school work.
Key takeaway
The Dulwich College 7 plus exam syllabus is broad and academically demanding, with a strong emphasis on maths and reasoning. Children are expected to apply their knowledge confidently and think logically across a range of question types.
City of freemans 7 plus exam questions
The City of Freemans 7 plus exam questions are designed to assess a child’s academic ability, problem-solving skills, and logical thinking. While the school does not publish official past papers, the types of questions are similar to other competitive 7+ entrance exams.
Types of Questions in the Exam
The exam typically includes three main areas:
- English
- Mathematics
- Non-verbal reasoning
Each section focuses on applying knowledge rather than simple recall.
English Question Examples
English questions may include:
- Reading comprehension (answering questions on a passage)
- Creative writing tasks
- Spelling, punctuation, and grammar
Children may also be assessed on reading aloud and verbal understanding during the interview stage.
Maths Question Examples
Maths questions often include:
- Basic calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Word problems and multi-step questions
- Fractions, time, and money problems
- Number sequences and logic-based questions
The focus is on problem-solving and applying maths in real-life scenarios.
Non-Verbal Reasoning Questions
These questions test logical thinking and pattern recognition, such as:
- Shape sequences
- Odd-one-out patterns
- Visual puzzles
- Spatial reasoning problems
They are designed to assess intelligence and problem-solving ability rather than learned knowledge.
Difficulty Level
- Based on Year 2 curriculum
- Includes some early Year 3 extension topics
- Requires strong reasoning and problem-solving skills
This makes the questions more challenging than typical classroom work.
Key takeaway
City of Freemans 7 plus exam questions focus on understanding, logic, and application, rather than memorisation. Regular practice with a variety of 7 plus exam papers is essential to become familiar with the style and improve performance.
Don’t let exam season become a source of stress. Help your child approach secondary school with a ‘can-do’ attitude Book a Free Trial Lesson to see how our supportive tutors build the confidence and mindset needed for peak performance
7+ Exam Schools by Area
7 plus exam hammersmith
Hammersmith is one of the key areas in London for 7 plus exam schools, with several highly competitive prep schools offering entry at Year 3. Schools in this area are known for strong academic standards and structured admissions processes, making early preparation important.
7+ Schools in Hammersmith
Some of the main 7 plus exam schools in Hammersmith include:
- St Paul’s Juniors – One of the most competitive 7+ schools, with a strong focus on maths, reasoning, and problem-solving
- Latymer Prep School – Well-known for a balanced exam format including English comprehension, creative writing, and maths
- Fulham School – A nearby option in the Hammersmith & Fulham area, with assessment and interview stages
These schools attract a large number of applicants each year, making competition particularly strong in West London.
Exam Format in Hammersmith Schools
Most 7 plus exam schools in Hammersmith follow a similar structure:
- English (comprehension and writing)
- Mathematics (problem-solving and calculations)
- Sometimes reasoning assessments
- Interview or group assessment stage
For example, Latymer Prep includes English comprehension, creative writing, and maths papers, followed by further assessment stages
Why Hammersmith Is a Popular Area for 7+
- High concentration of top independent schools
- Strong academic reputation
- Clear progression pathways to leading senior schools
- Competitive but well-structured admissions processes
Key takeaway
7 plus exam schools in Hammersmith are among the most competitive in London. Understanding each school’s exam style and preparing with a range of 7 plus exam papers is essential to give your child the best chance of success.
7 plus mock exams solihull
7 plus mock exams in Solihull are designed to help children prepare for independent school entrance tests by simulating real exam conditions. These mock exams are particularly useful for families applying to competitive schools, as they provide a clear benchmark of a child’s performance before the actual 7+ exams.
What Are 7 Plus Mock Exams
7 plus mock exams are practice tests that replicate the format, timing, and difficulty of real entrance exams. They typically include:
- English (comprehension and writing)
- Mathematics (calculation and problem-solving)
- Sometimes reasoning questions
These mocks are based on common 7+ exam styles used by schools across the UK.
Benefits of 7 Plus Mock Exams in Solihull
- Familiarise children with real exam conditions
- Improve time management and accuracy
- Identify strengths and weaker areas
- Build confidence before sitting actual exams
Mock exams are especially helpful for children who may not have experienced formal testing before.
What to Expect
Most 7 plus mock exams in Solihull follow a structured format:
- Timed exam papers
- Quiet, exam-style environment
- Feedback or performance reports
- Comparison with typical exam standards
Some providers base their mock exams on real school-style papers, such as those used by Solihull preparatory schools.
How to Use Mock Exams Effectively
- Start with practice papers before attempting mocks
- Use mock exams closer to the real test date
- Review performance carefully after each test
- Focus on improving weaker areas
Key takeaway
7 plus mock exams in Solihull are a valuable tool for preparing for competitive school entry. They help children gain exam experience, improve performance, and approach the real 7+ with greater confidence.
How to Choose the Right 7+ School
what year 7 plus exam applies
The 7 plus exam applies to children in Year 2, typically aged 6 to 7, who are applying for entry into Year 3 at independent prep schools.
Children usually sit the 7 plus exam during the autumn and early spring terms of Year 2, depending on the school. The application and registration process often begins earlier, in Year 1.
This means preparation for the 7+ generally starts in Year 1, with more structured practice taking place in Year 2 as the exam approaches.
Key takeaway
The 7 plus exam is taken in Year 2 for entry into Year 3, making it one of the earliest entry points into selective independent schools.
7 plus exam what age
The 7 plus exam is typically taken by children aged 6 to 7 years old, during Year 2 of primary school.
Children sit the exam for entry into Year 3 at independent prep schools, making it one of the earliest entry points into selective education in the UK.
Most exams take place between September and January of Year 2, although exact timings vary by school.
Key takeaway
The 7 plus exam is designed for children aged 6–7, so preparation usually begins in Year 1 to build the skills needed for success.
Strong 7 plus exam preparation is key to matching your child to the right school
Are 7+ Exam Schools Competitive?
what is 7 plus exam difficulty
The 7 plus exam is considered moderately to highly difficult, especially given the young age of the children sitting it (6–7 years old). While it is based on the Year 2 curriculum, many questions go beyond standard classroom learning and require strong problem-solving and reasoning skills.
Why the 7 Plus Exam Is Challenging
- Questions often involve multi-step problem-solving rather than simple calculations
- English tasks require inference, vocabulary, and clear writing
- Time pressure can be difficult for young children
- Each school uses a different exam format and style
- Competition is high, with limited places available
What Level Is Expected
Children are typically expected to demonstrate:
- Strong foundations in maths and English
- Ability to apply knowledge in unfamiliar situations
- Logical thinking and reasoning skills
- Confidence in working independently under timed conditions
Many top schools set questions at an early Year 3 level or above, particularly in maths and reasoning.
Key takeaway
The 7 plus exam is more challenging than standard Year 2 work, combining academic knowledge with problem-solving and time pressure. Consistent preparation and exposure to exam-style questions are key to managing the difficulty and performing well.
what is verbal and non verbal reasoning
Verbal and non verbal reasoning are two types of skills tested in school entrance exams, including some 7+ assessments. They are designed to measure a child’s ability to think logically, recognise patterns, and solve problems, rather than simply recall information.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal reasoning involves working with words and language. It tests how well a child can understand, analyse, and use written information.
Common question types include:
- Synonyms and antonyms
- Letter codes and sequences
- Word patterns and analogies
- Simple logic problems using words
These questions assess vocabulary, comprehension, and logical thinking using language.
Non Verbal Reasoning
Non verbal reasoning focuses on visual and spatial thinking. Instead of words, it uses shapes, patterns, and images.
Common question types include:
- Shape sequences
- Odd-one-out patterns
- Rotations and reflections
- Visual puzzles and diagrams
These questions test a child’s ability to recognise patterns and think logically without relying on language.
Key Differences
- Verbal reasoning uses words and language
- Non verbal reasoning uses images and patterns
- Both assess problem-solving and logical thinking
Key takeaway
Verbal and non verbal reasoning are important skills in entrance exams, helping schools assess how well a child can think, reason, and solve problems in different ways.
Practising a range of 7 plus exam papers helps prepare for different school styles.
7 Plus Exam Schools FAQs
What is 7 plus exam
The 7 plus exam is an entrance test taken by children in Year 2 (ages 6–7) for admission into Year 3 at selective independent prep schools in the UK. It assesses academic ability, problem-solving skills, and readiness for a more challenging school environment.
What is the 7 plus exam
The 7 plus exam is a competitive school admissions assessment used by private prep schools to evaluate children through English, maths, and sometimes reasoning, along with interviews or assessment days.
What is on the 7 plus exam
The 7 plus exam typically includes English (comprehension and writing), maths (calculation and problem-solving), and sometimes verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Many schools also include an interview or group assessment.
When do 7 plus exams take place
7 plus exams usually take place between September and January of Year 2, depending on the school, with results released shortly after.
Don’t let exam season become a source of stress. Help your child approach secondary school with a ‘can-do’ attitude Book a Free Trial Lesson to see how our supportive tutors build the confidence and mindset needed for peak performance
