16 Plus Exam (16+ Exam)

What is the 16 Plus Exam (16+ Exam)?

The 16 Plus Exam (16+ Exam), also known as the sixth-form entry exam, is used for admission into the final two years of secondary school in the UK, known as the Sixth Form. During this period, 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 in their journey toward university. This transition also offers a tremendous opportunity if your child secures a place at a school that aligns better with their needs and aspirations.

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

It depends. The choice to take the 16 Plus Exam (16+ Exam) and transfer schools for the Sixth Form is a very personal one that is largely driven by the needs and objectives of the individual student. This choice presents a new set of challenges, both personal and academic, which can enhance their educational journey.


In some cases, students choose larger institutions to access a broader array of academic subjects and a more diverse range of extracurricular activities. The Sixth Form acts as a significant bridge between school and university, offering students greater independence and prompting both parents and students to reassess their school preferences.


Additionally, it provides students from single-sex schools the opportunity to transition to a co-educational learning environment if desired.

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

The 16 Plus Exam (16+ Exam) typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. Prospective students sit for papers in all the A-Levels they are applying to take. In some schools, the 16+ exam may also include general, critical thinking, and reasoning papers. Since there is no standardized process or common exam for the 16+ Exam, students need to be aware of the specific requirements of each school and choose their A-Level subjects accordingly.


For example, if you are choosing Economics for A-Level, you will be tested on Economics content in the 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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