FREE Download: Hurstpierpoint College 2026 (11+) 11 Plus Exam - 2026 Key Information

Hurstpierpoint College, a leading co-educational selective independent school in West Sussex, offers an outstanding all-round education. It caters to pupils aged 4 to 18, covering Key Stage 3 (KS3) through to sixth form (6th Form provision). The school is regularly inspected, with its ISI rating available for review.

Recognised among the best independent schools in the UK, Hurst attracts many ambitious pupils seeking a vibrant learning environment. Navigating the competitive 2026 11+ Exam admissions process for Hurst requires strategic planning and insight.

Hurstpierpoint College, a proud member of the Woodard Corporation, offers a distinctive educational journey. Welcoming pupils from over 40 diverse schools annually, it fosters a broad community.

In this guide, I apply 6+ years of education consultancy to help parents navigate Hurstpierpoint College 2026 11 plus (11+) Exam admissions with confidence.

School Details

• Type of School: Independent
• Boarding Type: Day and Boarding
• Gender Type: Co-educational
• Religion: Anglican Foundation
• Age Range: 4-18 years
• Number of Pupils: Approx. 1,200
• GCSE Results (2025): 79% of GCSE grades were between 7 and 9
• A-Level Results (2025): 88% of grades were awarded at A* – B

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Admissions Details

• Admissions Policy: Academically selective
• Year 7 Places (PAN): Approximately 86 pupils
• Exam Board: Bespoke
• Stages of 11+ Exam: 1
• Catchment Area: No 
• Sibling Policy: No 
• Pass Mark: Aim for 90%

This information has been sourced from Get Information about Schools and Hurstpierpoint College Official Website.

Navigating the admissions process for independent schools like Hurstpierpoint College requires careful attention to key dates. As an experienced UK Education Consultant, I have compiled the most important information regarding Hurstpierpoint College open day events and the 11 plus exam dates to help parents plan effectively.

Below is a summary of the key Hurstpierpoint College 11 plus exam dates and admissions milestones:

For September 2026 entry, the Hurstpierpoint College 11+ Exam process is holistic. As stated in the Hurstpierpoint College Admissions Policy, the school assesses academic ability, potential, and suitability for College life.

How to register for 11+ exam

• Complete the official online Registration Form, including the non-refundable deposit, for 11 plus exam registration.
• Arrange a visit or attend an Open Morning to experience the College environment.
• Your child will undertake aptitude tests and an interview, key parts of the 11 plus exam process.
• A confidential report from their current Headteacher will also be requested.

Hurstpierpoint College is a prominent choice among independent schools in West Sussex.

Hurstpierpoint College, situated in West Sussex, does not operate a formal catchment area for its admissions. As an independent school, places are offered based on a selective admissions process rather than geographical proximity.

The College's admissions policy focuses on identifying pupils who will thrive within its stimulating and caring environment. Decisions are made based on a pupil's academic ability, potential, and their overall suitability to contribute positively to school life, as assessed through examinations, interviews, and school reports.

For Year 7 applicants, this means that prospective pupils should concentrate on preparing for the College's selective entry requirements. While many day pupils reside in West Sussex and surrounding areas, the College welcomes applications from a broad geographical range, including those seeking boarding places.

Navigating the independent school admissions landscape can be highly competitive, and Hurstpierpoint College is no exception. Many excellent schools, both independent and grammar, experience significant oversubscription, making it crucial for parents to develop a robust backup strategy.

Considering alternative schools not only broadens your child's options but also alleviates pressure during the intense entrance exam period.

A well-thought-out plan ensures your child has a suitable and nurturing environment for their secondary education, regardless of the outcome from their first-choice school.

• Ardingly College: Located near Hurstpierpoint, Ardingly offers a similar co-educational day and boarding experience with a strong academic and co-curricular programme. Its admissions process often involves its own entrance exams or the ISEB Common Pre-Test for 13+ entry, focusing on a holistic assessment.
• Lancing College: Another prominent co-educational independent school in West Sussex, Lancing College boasts a rich history and a beautiful coastal setting. It provides a broad education with excellent academic results and a wide array of extracurricular activities, making it a strong alternative for parents seeking a similar ethos and academic rigour.
• Worth School: While having a Catholic Benedictine foundation, Worth School welcomes pupils of all faiths and none, offering a co-educational day and boarding environment. It focuses on developing well-rounded individuals through strong academics and a supportive pastoral system, presenting a compelling option for those valuing a nurturing community.

Hurstpierpoint College does not publicly disclose the exact number of applications received for Year 7 (11+ entry) each year, nor the precise number of places available. This information is typically kept private by the school.

For the most current and precise information regarding application numbers or the number of places available, parents are encouraged to contact the Hurstpierpoint College Admissions team directly.

​As stated in the Hurstpierpoint College Admissions Policy, the admissions process is designed to assess a pupil’s academic ability and potential, ensuring they will thrive within the school’s stimulating and caring environment.​

The 11+ assessment at Hurstpierpoint College focuses on a child’s natural ability and character. Held in late November of Year 6, the school explicitly designs the process to be fair and "un-coachable," removing the need for extensive tutoring.

The Assessment Day Format:

• Reasoning Tests: Standardised Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) papers.

• Writing Task: A short assessment of literacy, expression, and foundational English.

• Interactive Tasks: Team-building and practical activities in Science, Design & Technology, and Games.

• Interview: A one-on-one conversation with a senior member of staff.

Parent’s Top 2 Queries

• What exam board does Hurstpierpoint College follow?
  Hurstpierpoint College uses its own Bespoke Exam for its 11+ entry assessments for Year 7. 
• How long is the 11+ Exam for Hurstpierpoint College?
  The exact duration of the 11 plus exam or assessment components for Hurstpierpoint College is not publicly detailed on their admissions pages. The overall assessment day may include various activities.

​Hurstpierpoint College does not publish an official 11 plus exam results threshold. However, aiming for 95%+ in PiAcademy’s 11+ Practice Papers can better position applicants.

To secure a place, prospective pupils should strive to maximise their scores across all tested subjects in the eleven plus exam.

Hurstpierpoint College welcomes pupils into Year 7 (11+) as part of its Senior Prep intake. Prospective pupils should prepare for assessments that commonly include English and Reasoning skills. These assessments aim to evaluate a child's academic ability and potential.

English

The English assessment for 11+ entry typically evaluates a child's proficiency in reading, writing, and grammar. While specific topic weighting is not provided by the school, a balanced approach to preparation is advisable.

Verbal Reasoning

Verbal Reasoning tests a child's ability to understand and reason with words, language, and text. This often includes identifying patterns, codes, and logical sequences.

Non-Verbal Reasoning

Non-Verbal Reasoning assesses problem-solving skills using diagrams, shapes, and patterns. It measures the ability to understand and analyse visual information.

Best Resources for Hurstpierpoint College 11+ Exam Preparation

Given the typical subjects for independent school 11+ entry, a comprehensive preparation strategy should include practice in English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. PiAcademy offers a range of resources that can support your child's preparation for the Hurstpierpoint College 11+ entrance exam.

For broader practice, explore a variety of 11 plus exam papers to familiarise your child with different question styles and formats.

Recommended Resources for 11+ Preparation

Preparing for entry to Hurstpierpoint College, a competitive independent school in West Sussex, requires thorough preparation. While the specific 11+ exam board for Hurstpierpoint College can vary or evolve, engaging in regular 11 plus mock test West Sussex practice is crucial for familiarising your child with exam conditions and identifying areas for improvement.

Mock tests help build confidence, improve time management, and reduce exam day anxiety, giving your child the best chance to succeed in a challenging environment. For a comprehensive understanding of your child's current standing, consider a free 11 Plus diagnostic assessment.

Given the dynamic nature of independent school admissions, we recommend a general 11 Plus mock test approach to ensure broad preparation. PiAcademy offers excellent resources:

• Autumn Half Term 1: 3rd September 2026 – 23rd October 2026
• Autumn Half Term 2: 2nd November 2026 – 16th December 2026
• Spring Half Term 1: 4th January 2027 – 12th February 2027
• Spring Half Term 2: 22nd February 2027 – 24th March 2027
• Summer Half Term 1: 12th April 2027 – 28th May 2027
• Summer Half Term 2: 7th June 2027 – 30th June 2027

Navigating independent school admissions requires understanding direct application processes, specific registration deadlines, and bespoke entrance assessments. To support your journey, review these official inspection reports, admissions policies, and testing guidelines, crucial for preparing your child for Hurstpierpoint College. 

• UK Govt. - Get Information on Hurstpierpoint College Page
• Hurstpierpoint College ISI Report
• Hurstpierpoint College Admissions Policy
• UK Govt. - Schools, pupils and their characteristics data
• Hurstpierpoint College - Charity Commission

Hurstpierpoint College, located in West Sussex, is a prestigious independent school with fees reflecting its comprehensive educational offering and facilities.

For the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure, including details for the Senior Prep (11-13 years), it is always best to consult the official Hurstpierpoint College admissions page directly.

The basic termly fee for Year 7 for the 2025/26 academic year is £8,985 (inclusive of VAT and compulsory lunch). Please note that these termly fees are inclusive of VAT and lunch.

The College is committed to widening access and offers a range of scholarships and bursaries.

While Hurstpierpoint College provides excellent value, it's worth noting that some independent schools can be among the most expensive Private Schools UK has to offer.