The 7+ evaluation is a competitive selection examination used by a number of top schools in London for entrance into Year 3. The 8+ exam is generally structured in the same way as the 7+, but with a higher educational level. The 8+ is usually taken in January and pupils then join the school the following September.

Both exams cover maths and English, but there are some differences in the curriculum between the two. Prospective students will be assessed on their ability to work independently on timed exercises, and they will also be assessed on how they react and socialise with fellow prospective students and staff members. The 8+ exam is more intensive. Students are expected to know at least the Key Stage 2 English word lists for Years 3 and 4. The 7+ mathematics assessment is in line with the Year 2 maths syllabus. The 8+ maths assessment is in line with the Year 3 syllabus. Both the 7+ and the 8+ math exams have mental arithmetic, written and problem-solving components.

Schools offering admission through the 7+ and 8+ examinations

• City of London: The City of London School is one of London‘s best with an impressive academic track record, with a capacity of over 900 boys.

• St. Paul’s Junior School: St. Paul’s Junior School is one of London’s top preparatory schools. Boys between the age of 7 to 13 attend the school before transferring to St Paul’s School.

• Bute House Preparatory School: This school is located in Hammersmith and has a reputation for producing senior school exit results that other prep schools can only dream about.

• North London Collegiate School: This school is one of the best secondary schools in London. It is also one of the top IB schools worldwide, just ahead of Sevenoaks School and King’s College Wimbledon.

• Alleyn’s School: Alleyn’s is one of the country’s leading day schools, committed to achieving academic excellence.