City of London School: 11 Plus Entry Guide
Key Takeaways
- CLS admits approximately 140 boys to Year 7 each year.
- The exam tests English and Maths at an advanced level.
- Bursaries can cover up to 100% of fees, ability determines admission.
- The school rewards genuine ability over extensive coaching.
The City of London School (CLS) is a prestigious independent day school for boys located on the Thames Embankment in central London. With origins dating to 1442, it has one of the longest histories of any school in England and an exceptional academic reputation. Entry at 10 plus (Year 7) is through the school's own competitive examination. The school's central location makes it accessible from across London, attracting a diverse and talented intake. This guide covers the admissions process, exam format, and preparation. EdifyPod Nexus provides advanced-level practice.
City of London School is a leading independent boys' school on the Thames Embankment admitting approximately 140 boys to Year 7. The entrance exam tests English and Mathematics at an advanced level. The school offers means-tested bursaries covering up to 100% of fees. The exam is designed to assess potential rather than preparation.
About City of London School
City of London School is a boys' day school situated next to the Millennium Bridge with views across the Thames to Tate Modern. Its central London location means it draws students from every part of the capital.
The school has an outstanding academic record and a strong tradition in music, drama, and sport. Approximately 140 boys enter Year 7 each year through a competitive entrance examination.
CLS is notable for its diverse intake and commitment to widening access. The school offers generous bursaries and has a long history of educating boys from all backgrounds.
The Entrance Examination
The CLS entrance exam is typically held in January for Year 7 entry the following September. The exam assesses English (comprehension and writing) and Mathematics at an advanced level.
The English paper requires close reading of literary and non-literary texts, with questions testing inference, evaluation, and the ability to express ideas clearly in writing. The creative writing element rewards imagination, structure, and quality of expression.
The Mathematics paper is challenging, testing problem-solving ability and mathematical reasoning beyond the standard primary curriculum. Multi-step problems and questions requiring creative approaches are common.
Candidates who perform well in the written exams are invited for an interview.
Bursaries and Scholarships
The City of London School has one of the most generous bursary programmes among independent schools. Bursaries are fully means-tested and can cover up to 100 percent of fees.
The school also offers academic, music, and choral scholarships. Academic scholarships are awarded to candidates who perform exceptionally in the entrance exam. Music scholars may receive free instrumental tuition and other benefits.
The school's bursary programme means that ability, not family income, determines admission. Families are strongly encouraged to apply for financial assistance if needed.
Preparation Advice
The CLS exam rewards genuine academic ability rather than extensive coaching. The school explicitly states that it designs its papers to assess potential rather than preparation.
That said, familiarity with the exam format, timed writing practice, and exposure to challenging mathematical problems are all beneficial. Read widely across fiction and non-fiction. Practise expressing opinions about what you read.
For Mathematics, focus on deep understanding rather than rote methods. Can your child explain why a method works, not just how? Can they approach unfamiliar problems with confidence? These are the skills CLS is looking for.
EdifyPod Nexus develops these skills through adaptive practice. For independent school preparation, explore our programmes at edifypod.com/11plus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is City of London School the same as City of London School for Girls?
No. They are separate schools. CLS is for boys. The City of London School for Girls is located nearby in the Barbican and has its own admissions process.
How much do bursaries at CLS cover?
Bursaries are fully means-tested and can cover up to 100 percent of fees. The school has one of the most generous bursary programmes among independent schools.
Is the CLS exam harder than a grammar school 11 plus?
It is different rather than simply harder. CLS assesses depth of thinking and potential rather than familiarity with specific question types. The standard is very high.