7 Plus Exam Guide for Parents

What Parents Need to Know About the 7 Plus

What is the 7 Plus Exam?

The 7 Plus is an entrance assessment taken by children in Year 2 for entry into Year 3 at selective independent schools.

It usually takes place in January, for entry the following September.

Some schools are prep schools (ending at Year 6), while others are all-through schools, meaning students can stay until secondary without reapplying.

Why is it so Competitive?

• Many independent schools have limited Year 3 spaces.
• Schools with pre-prep departments often give most places to existing pupils, leaving few for external applicants.
• Applicant-to-place ratios vary by school and year; check each school’s current admissions information for the latest figures.
• Entry can mean avoiding later entrance exams at 11+ for some schools.

How Can They Test Children So Young?

The tests are usually based on what children are learning at school and do not go too far beyond National Curriculum levels. However, schools need to shortlist candidates and use exams to assess academic readiness and potential in a fair way.

How Difficult is the 7 Plus?

The level and format vary by school. Some assessments may go beyond typical Year 2 classroom work, so check each school’s current admissions information and sample materials.

Schools aren’t trying to trip children up — they’re looking for potential, but competition means the standard is high.

What’s in the Exam?

While the difficulty varies by school, most assessments cover:

• English
  • Reading aloud with expression
  • Comprehension questions
  • Creative writing
  • Grammar and spelling tasks
• Maths
  • Arithmetic
  • Problem-solving
  • Applying maths to word problems
• Reasoning
  • Verbal reasoning (understanding and using language)
  • Non-verbal reasoning (patterns, shapes, logic)
• Online Testing
  • Some schools use adaptive computer-based tests that adjust to the child’s answers.

Example Questions

Maths:

• The café is open for 6 days each week. It is open for 9 hours each day. How many hours is the café open each week?
• There are six faces on a normal dice. How many dots are there on two dice?

Writing Prompt:
“Write a story called ‘Lost in the Museum’. Think about how the character feels, where they go, and what happens next.”

What are Schools Looking For?

Top independent schools are assessing:

1. Maths Skills – times tables, problem-solving, applying methods.
2. Reading Ability – fluency, understanding, ability to discuss meaning.
3. Writing Quality – imagination, structure, grammar, punctuation.
4. Confidence in Conversation – clear speaking, good listening.
5. Reasoning Skills – logical thinking and pattern spotting.

Have questions? Get in touch, and we can talk you through everything:

Are the Scores Standardised?

Scoring and standardisation vary by school and test provider. Check each school’s current admissions information for details of how results are calculated and used alongside interviews or group activities.

Do Private Schools Prefer State or Prep School Children?

There is no clear preference. The exam is designed to reveal potential regardless of background.

Should I Use a Tutor or Prepare at Home?

Many families use tutors, while others take a DIY approach using available resources. What matters most is your child’s consistency, engagement, and emotional readiness.

Choosing the Right Tutor

• Does your child enjoy the sessions?
• Are they comfortable asking questions?
• Is the level of work right—challenging but achievable?
• Are they learning, growing, and having fun?

Do I Need to Register?

Yes. Every school has its process. You’ll usually need to fill out a form and pay a registration fee.

Final Tip for Parents

Start preparation early — not just on exam content but also on confidence, focus, and resilience. The happiest, most successful candidates are those who feel supported, engaged, and motivated.

Next Steps

If you’d like expert guidance and a proven programme to help your child prepare without stress, see how our 7 Plus Tuition in Loughton works.

Learn About Our 7 Plus Tuition Programme