What is the difference between GL Assessment and CEM 11 Plus exams?

GL Assessment and CEM are two different providers of 11 Plus test papers, and the exact format, question style and preparation approach differ meaningfully between them, which is why confirming which one your target schools use matters before choosing a tutor.

GL Assessment is the more widely used provider across most grammar school areas. GL papers typically test Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths and English as separate, clearly labelled sections, often multiple-choice, with question types that follow fairly predictable, practiseable patterns.

CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) historically set papers with a different style — mixed English and Verbal Reasoning within the same section, less predictable question ordering, and a heavier vocabulary and comprehension component. CEM has been largely phased out by most areas that previously used it, with many switching to GL Assessment or bespoke school-set papers, so it is important to check current arrangements for your specific target schools rather than assume CEM still applies.

Why this matters for tutoring: practising the wrong format wastes valuable preparation time. A tutor who specifically knows your target school's current test provider and format can tailor practice materials and technique precisely, rather than working from a generic 11 Plus approach that may not match what your child will actually sit.

Always confirm the current test format directly with your target schools or local authority admissions pages, since arrangements do change between years. On TutorLab, 11 Plus tutors state which test formats and school types they have experience preparing students for on their profiles.