Essex 11 Plus (CSSE): Format, Dates and How to Prepare
By Simply Eleven Plus · Updated 25 October 2026 · 4 min read
Most Essex grammar schools use one 11 plus set by the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE). Unlike most areas, it tests only English and Maths, and it includes written answers rather than just multiple choice.
Essex 11 plus at a glance
| The CSSE test | |
|---|---|
| Test | The CSSE test, written by the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex itself |
| Papers | English and Maths only, with no Verbal or Non-Verbal Reasoning |
| English | Comprehension plus a piece of continuous writing |
| Maths | Key Stage 2 maths, with working shown |
| Register | Usually mid-May to mid-June of Year 5 |
| Test date | A Saturday in September of Year 6 |
What’s in the CSSE test
- English: reading comprehension and a piece of continuous writing, so handwriting, planning and accuracy all matter.
- Maths: problems based on the Key Stage 2 curriculum, with answers written in rather than chosen from options.
Check which schools use it
Not every selective school in Essex uses the CSSE test: some run their own. Check the admissions page of each school you are interested in.
Don’t forget the second form. Registering for the test does not apply for a school place. You must also name the grammar schools on your home council’s secondary school application (the Common Application Form) by its deadline, usually 31 October of Year 6. Offers are made on National Offer Day, 1 March.
How to prepare for the Essex 11 plus
- Practise timed creative and non-fiction writing, with planning, regularly through Year 5.
- Work on written comprehension answers using Point, Evidence, Explain: see comprehension.
- In Maths, practise showing working and checking answers: word problems and mental maths.
Practise for free
Simply Eleven Plus has 11 plus practice for Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning with instant marking, free to start. Our free live 11 plus mock exams let your child sit a timed paper online under exam conditions. For a full timeline, see how to prepare for the 11 plus.
Frequently asked questions
- What subjects are in the Essex 11 plus?
- English and Maths only. The CSSE test has no Verbal or Non-Verbal Reasoning.
- Is the CSSE test multiple choice?
- No. Answers are written, and the English paper includes a piece of continuous writing.
- When do you register for the CSSE test?
- Usually from mid-May to mid-June of Year 5. Check csse.org.uk for the current dates.
Free 11+ live mock exams
Let your child sit a real-time, timed mock paper online, then go through the trickiest questions together. It’s free.