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CEM 11+

CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, Durham University) designs 11+ exams used in several regions across England. CEM exams are deliberately harder to prepare for — but understanding the format still helps.

CEM Exam Format

A clear breakdown of what children face in a CEM 11+ exam.

Format

Mixed-subject paper (all subjects in one sitting)

Approximate split

~30% Maths, ~30% Verbal Reasoning, ~40% English

Total questions

~80

Time

~45 minutes

Answer format

Multiple choice

Scoring

Standardised scores

Difficulty spread: 15% Foundation, 50% Standard, 35% Challenge.

Key difference: CEM exams switch between subjects within the paper. Children need to adapt quickly between maths, English, and reasoning questions.

Which Areas Use CEM?

CEM is used in fewer regions than GL, and the full list is not publicly available.

Parts of Gloucestershire

Grammar schools

Parts of Warwickshire

Grammar schools

Some schools in other counties

Varies by school

CEM does not publish a full list of schools using its exams. Always confirm directly with your target school.

How TrueViQ Covers CEM

TrueViQ includes features that support CEM-style preparation.

Mixed-Subject Practice

Mixed-subject practice available, matching the CEM format of switching between subjects in a single session.

Broader Vocabulary

Broader vocabulary coverage because CEM tests more unusual words than other exam boards.

Speed-Focused Comprehension

Comprehension designed for speed, reflecting the tighter time pressure in CEM exams.

Adaptive Fluency

Adaptive practice builds fluency across subjects, so children can switch confidently between question types.

CEM vs GL

The two main 11+ exam boards differ in format and approach.

AspectCEMGL
FormatMixed-subject papersSeparate subject papers
PredictabilityLess predictableConsistent format
SpeedTighter time pressureStandard pacing
VocabularyBroader, less common wordsCurriculum-adjacent

Check which board your target school uses before choosing how to prepare. Read our GL Assessment guide

A Note on CEM Preparation

CEM exams are intentionally designed to be harder to coach for. Broad reading, strong vocabulary, and solid maths fundamentals matter more than drilling past papers. That said, familiarity with the format — especially the speed and subject-switching — gives children confidence on exam day.

Frequently asked questions

What is CEM?
Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, based at Durham University. CEM provides 11+ exams for selected grammar school regions across England.
How is a CEM exam different from GL?
CEM uses mixed-subject papers (~45 minutes) where children switch between maths, English, and reasoning questions within a single sitting. GL uses separate subject papers (~50 minutes each). CEM has tighter time limits and switches between subjects within the paper.
Can you prepare for CEM exams?
To some extent. Broad reading, vocabulary, and maths fluency help. Familiarity with the mixed-subject format and time pressure also makes a difference.
Which schools use CEM?
Parts of Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, and other areas. CEM does not publish a complete list — check with your target school.
Why is CEM harder to prepare for?
By design. CEM intentionally varies content and format to reduce the effect of coaching. Strong fundamentals matter more than exam technique.
Does TrueViQ cover CEM-style questions?
Yes. TrueViQ offers mixed-subject practice, broader vocabulary coverage, and speed-focused comprehension suited to CEM preparation.

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