An 11+ preparation timeline: a month-by-month guide
Good 11+ preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Here's a realistic timeline many families find manageable, starting roughly 12 months before the exam.
12–10 months before
Find out which test your child will sit and which schools you're applying to. Do a gentle baseline across the four subjects to see current strengths and gaps. Keep it light — the goal is information, not pressure.
9–6 months before
Build a steady routine: short, regular sessions (15–20 minutes) rather than long weekend marathons. Focus on understanding and filling gaps in Maths and English, and introduce Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning question types one at a time.
5–3 months before
Increase exposure to mixed-topic practice and start using timers so your child gets comfortable working at pace. Review mistakes together — the “why” matters more than the score.
2–1 months before
Introduce full, timed practice papers under realistic conditions. Work on exam technique: reading questions carefully, managing time, and moving on from tricky questions. Keep sessions calm and confidence-building.
The final weeks
Ease off intensity. Light revision, good sleep, and reassurance beat last-minute cramming. Make sure your child knows the practical details — date, location, what to bring.
Throughout
Praise effort, keep perspective, and protect your child's wellbeing. A relaxed, well-supported child performs better than an exhausted one.