City of London School, 11+ Preparation Guide for 2026/2027 Entry
Key Takeaways
- City of London School uses the school's own entrance examination for its entrance exam
- The exam covers typically English, Maths, and Reasoning (format varies by school)
- Competition ratio: approximately 6:1
- Start preparation in Year 4 for best results
- Use adaptive practice platforms that track progress against City of London School as a target school
Everything you need to know about preparing your child for entry to City of London School, a boys' independent school in City of London, London. This guide covers the exam format, competition level, preparation strategies, and recommended timeline for 2026/2027 entry.
City of London School is a boys' independent school in City of London, London that uses the school's own entrance examination for its 11+ entrance exam. The competition ratio is approximately 6:1 with 140 places available. The exam covers typically English, Maths, and Reasoning (format varies by school). EdifyPod Nexus provides adaptive practice tailored to this exam format with target school tracking.
About City of London School
City of London School is a boys' independent school located in City of London, London. The school admits boys and uses the school's own entrance examination for its entrance assessment.
The school's postcode is EC4V 3AL. You can visit the school's official website at www.cityoflondonschool.org.uk for the latest admissions information.
Entry Requirements and Exam Format
City of London School uses the school's own entrance examination for its entrance examination. The assessment covers typically English, Maths, and Reasoning (format varies by school) in a bespoke examination set by the school itself.
Registration typically opens in the spring or early summer for entry the following September. Check the school's website for exact dates, as deadlines vary and late applications are rarely accepted.
As an independent school, there may be additional assessments including interviews, references from the current school, and portfolio submissions depending on the school's requirements.
Competition and Admissions Statistics
With approximately 140 places available and around 800 applicants each year, the competition ratio is roughly 6:1. This makes City of London School highly competitive, thorough preparation is essential.
Given the level of competition, starting preparation early and maintaining consistent practice is strongly recommended. Children who begin in Year 4 with a structured approach tend to perform best.
How to Prepare for City of London School
Schools that set their own entrance exams have complete freedom over format, content, and difficulty. This means preparation must be broader, your child should be confident across all core subjects without relying on one specific format. Check the school's website for sample papers or past papers, as many schools publish these. Some schools include interviews, creative writing tasks, or group activities as part of their admissions process. Contact the admissions team to understand exactly what the assessment involves.
EdifyPod Nexus provides adaptive practice specifically designed for the school's own entrance examination preparation. The platform adjusts difficulty based on your child's performance, ensuring they're always working at the right level. You can track progress against City of London School as a target school to see how your child is performing relative to the entry standard.
Recommended Preparation Timeline
Year 4: Build broad academic foundations across reading, writing, and maths. Year 5: Contact the school for sample papers and admissions information. Practise with any available past papers. If the school includes interviews, practise discussion skills and current affairs awareness. Year 6: Attend open days and mock interviews if the school offers them.
Every child is different, some may need a longer runway while others pick up exam technique quickly. The key is consistent, regular practice rather than intensive cramming. Even 20-30 minutes of focused practice daily is more effective than occasional long sessions.
Find City of London School on the Map
City of London School is located in City of London, London (EC4V 3AL). Use our interactive School Finder to see City of London School on the map alongside other independent schools in the London area.
The School Finder shows all 163 grammar schools and 43 top independent schools in England, with filtering by exam board, school type, gender, and distance from your postcode.
Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is City of London School?
City of London School has approximately 140 places with around 800 applicants, giving a competition ratio of roughly 6:1. This is a highly competitive school.
What exam board does City of London School use?
City of London School uses the school's own entrance examination for its entrance examination. The test covers typically English, Maths, and Reasoning (format varies by school). The format is a bespoke examination set by the school itself.
When should I start preparing my child for City of London School?
Most families begin preparation for City of London School in Year 4 (age 8-9) with foundational skills work, then increase the intensity of exam-specific practice in Year 5. Starting at least 12-18 months before the exam gives your child time to build confidence without feeling rushed.