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Kent Test (11+) Information
Applying for a secondary school place is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child.
Those parents/children wishing to take the Kent Test (also known as PESE tests or 11+) need to register whilst they are in Year 5 so that the test can be taken in September of Year 6.
Registration for the Kent Test for children due to start secondary school in September 2025 will open on Monday 2nd June, 2025 and close at midnight on Tuesday 1st July, 2025. We cannot accept late registrations.
- Secondary School applications (SCAF) will open in September 2025 and close on 31st October 2025.
- Kent Test - Thursday 11th September, 2025
- Kent Test assessment results, will be available on Thursday 16th October, 2025.
- Secondary School offers are then made in March 2026.
Guides will be available to help you start planning early and to help you understand the admission process. These guides will tell you what happens and when; what you need to do; where you can get more information; a list of the Kent Grammar Schools and frequently asked questions and the answers.
The test is only valid for Kent grammar schools.
Medway Council has its own Medway Test and London Borough of Bexley has its own Bexley selection test.
Many children will find the test difficult.
Grammar schools in Kent provide for children in about the top 25% of the ability range. In addition, some of Kent’s grammar schools - particularly those which are most likely to offer places to children from outside Kent - give priority to those with the highest scores. You may want to discuss your child’s academic achievement with their primary school before you decide whether to register them for the Kent Test.
Passing the Kent Test does not guarantee your child a place in a Kent grammar school.
Make sure you know where the Kent grammar schools are, and what the admissions criteria are for the school(s) you are interested in. You can search for Kent grammar schools with our Kent Schools search.
If you need any further information please contact:the Secondary Admissions Teamon 0300 333 6472 or email kent.admissions@kent.gov.uk
Parent Information Guide
To help support you in preparation for your child taking the 11 plus we have created an information pack containing guidance, hints and tips. Please click here to view the guide.
Applying For Secondary Schools and Kent Test Presentation 2025
Ambition Booklet- Kent Test 2025/2026