16 plus (16+) exam

What You Need to Know:

16 Plus Exam (16+exam)

What is 16 Plus Exam (16+exam)?

The 16 plus exam (16+exam), also known as sixth-form entry exam. The term "Sixth Form" refers to the lasy two years of secondary school in the UK, where students pursue advanced school-level qualifications such as A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB). After completing their GCSEs in Year 11, students enter the Sixth Form for two years (Year 12 and Year 13)and undergo examinations at the end of Year 13.


Enrolling your child in a new school for the final two years of their secondary education can bring about significant changes during a crucial period on their journey towards university. This transition also offers a tremendous opportunity if your child secures a place at school that alighs better with their needs and aspirations.

Is it worth taking 16 Plus Exam (16+exam) and changing school at Sixth Form stage?

It depends. The decision to take 16 plus exam (16+exam)and change schools for Sixth Form is highly personal, primarily influenced by the individual student's needs and goals. It presents a new set of challenges, both on a personal and academic level, contributing to the enhancement of their educational journey.


In some cases, students opt for larger institutions, granting access to a broader array of academic subjects and a more diverse range of extracurricular activities. The Sixth Form serves as a significant bridge between school and university, affording students greater independence, prompting parents and their child to reassess their school preferences.


Additionally, it offers students from single-sex schools the opportunity to transition into a co-educational learning environment if they so desire.

What does the 16 Plus Exam (16+exam) look like?

16 plus exam (16+exam) is typically around 45 minutes to an hour in length, with prospective pupils sitting papers in all A-Levels they are applying to take. 16 plus exam (16+exam) in some schools consists of general, critical thinking and reasoning papers. As there is no standardised process or common exam for 16 plus exam (16+exam), students need to think what they are going to choose during their A-level.


For example, if you are going to choose Economics for A-level, then you will be tested economics contents in 16 plus exam (16+exam).

How to prepare for 16 Plus Exam (16+exam)?

16 plus exam (16+exam) is different from all other entrance exams. Preparing for 16 plus exam (16+exam) is a process in which students and parents need to plan beforehand. Students need to figure out these questions:


-Which subjects are you going to choose?

-Are you going for A-level, IB or Pre-University courses?

-What do you plan to study in university?

-Which universities are you planning to apply for?


Of course, parents should give guidance for students to help them think and decide. However, it must be clear that parents must respect and follow students' own wishes. Students will also need to have a future career plan in mind. Taking 16 plus exam (16+exam) is a first stage for students to decide their future plan, but still they need to balance between plans and interests.

Independent Schools with 16 Plus Exam (16+exam) entry:

  • St. Paul’s School
  • St. Paul's Girls' School
  • Westminster School
  • City of London School
  • City of London School for Girls
  • Eton College
  • Harrow School
  • Whitgift School
  • Tonbridge School
  • Cranleigh School
  • Godolphin and Latymer School
  • Sevenoaks School

...

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