Essex 11 Plus CSSE
Key Info
11 Plus Exam Format
Find Schools
How to Apply
What Is the CSSE Test?
The CSSE 11 Plus exam is the entrance assessment used by all grammar schools that form part of the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex. It is designed to evaluate a child’s academic ability and plays a key role in grammar school admissions.
The exam consists of two papers:
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Mathematics – 60 minutes
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English – 60 minutes, plus 10 minutes of reading time
Thousands of pupils take the CSSE 11 Plus each year, competing for a limited number of places. Unlike some regions, children only need to sit the test once, and their results can be shared with any grammar school within the Consortium. Most children take the test in their primary school in September of Year 6. Those applying from outside Essex are usually invited to a test centre on a separate date.
Key Information About the CSSE Test
Applies To:
All 9 grammar schools that are part of the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex.
Test Format:
Two papers – one in mathematics and one in English – written by the CSSE for the consortium each year.
Eligibility:
There are no formal entry requirements to sit the CSSE 11 Plus exam.
Places Available:
Over 1,300 grammar school places are available annually across the CSSE schools.
Applications:
Around 5,000 children apply to take the CSSE test each year.
The CSSE 11 Plus Exam Format
The exam includes two one-hour assessments designed to test academic knowledge and reasoning skills in English and maths.
Paper 1: English (CSSE)
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60-minute test plus 10 minutes of reading time
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Section 1: Covers comprehension, grammar, punctuation, vocabulary and literacy-style questions
- Section 2: Creative writing task
Paper 2: Mathematics (CSSE)
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60-minute test
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Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics, and problem-solving
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Standard format requiring written responses (not multiple choice)
CSSE Assessment Papers
Maths
English (Reading)
English (Writing)
CSSE 11 Plus Pass Mark
The CSSE 11 Plus Test is standardised to allow fair comparison between pupils of different ages. Each child receives standardised scores for English and maths, along with a total combined score.
Although the required score may vary slightly each year and between schools, no offers are made to children who score below a standardised total of 303. Recent data gives a rough guide to the minimum percentage scores needed:
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Southend priority area and local schools: 55–60%
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Out-of-area Southend schools: 65%
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Colchester County High School: 65–70%
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CRGS and KEGS (priority area): 70%
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KEGS (out of area): 75%
It’s important to note that your child must perform consistently across both papers. A high score in one subject won’t compensate for a low score in the other.
Which Schools Use the CSSE 11 Plus Test?
The CSSE 11 Plus Test is used by 9 grammar schools across Essex and Southend. These school are part of the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex.
Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex
Admissions Criteria for the CSSE 11 Plus
Eligibility to Sit the Exam
There are no strict criteria for taking the CSSE test, but it is generally suited to children who are:
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Aiming for a grammar school in Essex or Southend
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Currently in Year 5 and planning to start Year 7 in September 2026
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Working at or above the expected academic level
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Comfortable with timed tests and willing to complete additional practice
School Admissions Criteria
Once your child meets the CSSE pass mark, each grammar school applies its own admissions rules. These may include:
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Distance from the school
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Pupil Premium priority
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Overall performance in the CSSE test
Refer to the relevant school’s admissions policy for full details.
Key Dates for Entry
| Description | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration opens Registration opens | Tuesday 13th May 2025 |
| Registration closes Registration closes | Friday 27th June 2025 |
| CSSE Test date CSSE Test date | Saturday 20th September |
| Test day for religious, illness or exceptional circumstances only Test day for religious, illness or exceptional circumstances only | Tuesday 30th September 2025 |
| Results day Results day | Monday 13th October 2025 |
| Secondary school application deadline Secondary school application deadline | Friday 31st October 2025 |
| National offer day National offer day | Sunday 1st March 2026 |
How to Apply for the CSSE 11 Plus
To apply, you must register your child via the CSSE website during the official registration period.
Steps to Apply:
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Register Online – Visit the CSSE website and complete the online application form.
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Select a Test Centre – Children typically sit the test at the school selected during registration. If full, an alternative school centre will be offered.
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Save Your Confirmation – Keep your confirmation email for future reference.
Preparing for the CSSE 11 Plus Test
Helping your child prepare early and consistently can make a significant difference. Here are some effective strategies:
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Start Early – Begin preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5 for steady progress.
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Use Practice Papers – Work through past papers and timed tests to build familiarity.
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Focus on Weak Areas – Identify and revisit topics where your child needs more support.
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Read Regularly – Daily reading strengthens comprehension and vocabulary.
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Use Online Resources – Interactive tools can help tailor revision and keep learning engaging.
With the right preparation and support, your child can approach the CSSE 11 Plus Test with confidence.
CSSE 11 Plus FAQs
Who can sit the CSSE 11 Plus exam?
Any child currently in Year 5, aiming to start Year 7 in a CSSE grammar school, can sit the CSSE 11 Plus exam. There are no formal eligibility requirements, though children should be working at or above age-related expectations.
How many grammar school places are available through the CSSE each year?
On average, there are over 1,300 grammar school places available each year across the nine CSSE member schools.
What subjects are covered in the CSSE 11 Plus test?
The CSSE test includes two papers: one in English (comprehension, grammar, punctuation, vocabulary) and one in mathematics (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics, problem-solving).
What is the pass mark for the CSSE 11 Plus?
While it can vary slightly by year and school, no offers are made to children scoring below a standardised total of 303. Each school may set different thresholds above this.
How do I register my child for the CSSE 11 Plus test?
You must register online via the CSSE website during the registration window. You’ll choose a preferred test centre and receive a confirmation email once registered.
Can my child use their CSSE test result for more than one grammar school?
Yes, your child only needs to sit the CSSE 11 Plus once. Their results can be used for applications to any of the grammar schools within the Consortium.