In this section, we explore what is in the 11 Plus exam at STAHS. The process for September 2026 entry seeks academically capable girls.
As stated in the St Albans High School for Girls Admissions Policy, applicants face a two-stage assessment. This ensures a comprehensive evaluation of each child.
Stage One Test
The first hurdle for candidates is an online cognitive assessment. This mandatory screening tool determines who progresses further in the selection process.
Students will sit the ISEB common pre test in late November or early December 2025. This computer-based ISEB exam is fully adaptive and highly respected.
Because it is adaptive, the difficulty changes based on previous answers. It tests a child's true academic ceiling across four distinct subject areas.
11+ English
- This section takes 25 minutes for students to complete.
- It focuses heavily on reading comprehension, spelling, and complex grammar.
- Candidates must answer 11+ exam questions using unseen short texts.
- It tests how accurately a child understands and processes written information.
11+ Mathematics
- The 11+ Mathematics section lasts roughly 50 minutes.
- It strictly aligns with the National Curriculum up to Year 6.
- Questions test arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and basic geometric properties.
- Students must solve multi-step problems under strict time pressure.
Verbal Reasoning
- This adaptive module takes approximately 36 minutes to finish.
- It carefully assesses logical thinking using words and letters.
- Tasks often include cracking complex codes and identifying hidden letter patterns.
- It measures a candidate's underlying linguistic potential and vocabulary strength.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
- This visual section lasts 32 minutes.
- It evaluates spatial awareness and critical visual problem-solving skills.
- Students identify logical relationships between abstract 2D and 3D shapes.
- This accurately identifies cognitive ability regardless of traditional English language skills.
Stage Two Test
Candidates who pass the St Albans High School for Girls 11 Plus Test Stage One are formally shortlisted. They attend Stage Two in early January 2026.
This vital stage is held in person at the senior school. It moves away from computer screens to focus on collaboration and creativity.
The school uses this assessment day to look beyond academic scores. They want to see how applicants handle new and challenging group environments.
Assessment Morning Activities
- Shortlisted girls participate in a dynamic, group-based assessment morning.
- Teachers closely observe how candidates interact, communicate, and share ideas.
- Tasks involve creative thinking, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving skills.
- The school specifically looks for positive teamwork and active listening.
The 11+ Interview
- The assessment day includes a short, friendly, and informal interview.
- A staff member will discuss the child's unique interests and hobbies.
- Parents should review 11+ interview questions to prepare their daughters.
- This conversation helps assess intellectual curiosity and overall cultural fit.
Parent’s Top 2 Queries
What exam board does STAHS follow?
Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB).
How long is the 11+ Exam for STAHS?
Stage One is 2.5 hours long. Stage Two lasts a morning.
