Pass or fail, what are the options after 11+ results

The hard work is done and now all parents and children around the UK are patiently (and often nervously) waiting for their 11+ results. 

While you wait, it’s worth thinking about - and planning for - what happens next, whether the results are better or worse than expected.

11+ results usually arrive around 15th October, giving parents ample time to apply for their chosen secondary schools ahead of the 31st October application deadline, or make alternative plans.

In this guide, we’ll discuss possible outcomes and dive further into what to expect after finishing the 11+ exam, including;

• Finalising secondary school applications

• Dealing with low scores

• What’s next: GCSEs and A Levels

But, before we look at the different options, it’s important to remember that the 11+ is not all about ‘passing’ or ‘failing’.

Whatever their result, children will have learned valuable skills and lessons which will stand them in good stead for their GCSEs and A Level. And regardless of their 11+ score, it is those GCSE and A Level results, which Universities will be looking at in the future - so don’t worry if the 11+ didn’t go quite as planned. 

Finalising secondary school applications

During the 11+ exam preparation process, it’s possible that you and your child have already selected which secondary school they’d like to attend.

If so, then your child receives either a ‘qualifying standard’ or pass mark directly from the chosen school. Alternatively, they’ll be informed of their exact score and if they meet the minimum criteria you’ll need to name the school as a preference on the common application form. But remember, just because they’re eligible doesn’t automatically mean they will be accepted.

Usually, students choose three or four schools, which they rank in order of preference. As part of this process, it’s encouraged to attend open days and collect as much information as possible to help you find the best options for your family.

However many schools you choose to apply to, make sure you don’t miss the 31st October deadline. 

Your child will be notified of their placement on 2nd March 2026. If they aren’t placed at their ideal school, it is possible to appeal.

Dealing with low scores

Sometimes things don’t go as we planned, but it’s not the end of the world.

If your child’s results are lower than hoped and below the threshold for their top choice, it’s worth checking other options, as different schools set different acceptance levels. 

Alternatively, if you feel there has been an error, it is possible to appeal. Your child may also be able to resit the exam, but this is up to secondary school.

Another option is to have your child start at a non-selective state or comprehensive school and work on their academic performance. This route can still lead to top universities, as shown by Cambridge University reporting that roughly 71% of successful UK applicants came from state schools in their 2024 admissions cycle. We looked at the UK’s best state and grammar school in a previous article.

There are also independent and specialist schools, many of which have developed their own acceptance criteria, consisting of a mix of tests, interviews and references.

Starting at a non-selective school, independent, or specialist school, doesn’t close the door to grammar schools, and some schools allow students to join at different points, and sometimes have vacancies open in the higher years. This approach provides time for your child to continue to improve. 

To help them catch-up, we provide tailored support and resources for year 6-13 which will help grow their confidence and boost their grades. We offer a free trial session for our Maths GCSE course, so you can see if it’s a good fit, by signing up here.

What’s next: GCSEs and A Levels

The 11+ exams are the first step of your child’s academic journey, leading on to GCSEs and potentially A Levels, university and beyond.

The good news is that preparation for the GCSEs usually doesn’t start until Year 9 at the earliest, so you and your child now have a bit of time to breathe.

Still, it’s never a bad idea to start the conversations and use your child’s 11+ exam results to build a plan for the GCSEs sooner rather than later.

To help you get started, we’ve compiled several resources. And, of course, we offer GCSE tutoring, designed and delivered by the UK’s top teachers to help your child reach their full potential.