How Much Does 11+ Tutoring Cost in 2026?

11+ tutoring is a significant investment for most families. Understanding what to expect to pay, what affects the cost, and how to choose a tutor who delivers value is essential before committing.

Typical 11+ Tutoring Rates in 2026

In Surrey and the South-East, hourly rates for specialist 11+ tutors typically fall into three bands:

• £30–£45/hour: Less experienced tutors or those without specialist 11+ background. May be appropriate for general subject support but often lack the exam-specific knowledge needed for selective school preparation.
• £45–£70/hour: Experienced specialist tutors with a track record in 11+ preparation. This is the most common range for high-quality one-to-one tutoring.
• £70–£100+/hour: Highly experienced tutors with strong placements records, often with Oxbridge backgrounds and long waiting lists.

Online tuition typically costs 10–20% less than in-person for equivalent quality, with the added benefit of greater scheduling flexibility.

What Affects the Total Cost?

Beyond the hourly rate, the total investment depends on:

• Frequency and duration: 1 session per week for 18 months at £55/hour = approximately £4,300. 2 sessions per week for 12 months = approximately £5,700.
• Your child's starting point: Children who need to close larger gaps require more intensive preparation.
• Target schools: The most selective grammar schools require higher attainment, which may require more preparation time.
• Materials: Past paper books, preparation books and practice tests add £100–£300 over a preparation programme.

Group vs One-to-One Tutoring

Small group sessions (2–4 children) are available from some tutors and tutoring centres at lower per-child cost — typically £20–£35 per hour per child. However, one-to-one tutoring allows precise targeting of each child's specific weak areas and generally produces better outcomes, particularly in the final months before the exam.

Our 11+ specialists work with families across a range of preparation timelines and budgets, focusing each session on the areas that will make the most difference for your child's target schools. Our students have achieved a 95%+ offer rate across selective school entry, and we're rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot. Book a free consultation to discuss options.

How to Evaluate Value, Not Just Cost

A cheaper tutor who does not understand the target school's exam format, or who cannot build rapport with your child, provides poor value at any price. Ask any prospective tutor:

• What exam boards do you prepare children for (GL Assessment, CEM, ISEB)?
• How do you track and measure progress?
• Can you provide references from families whose children have gained places at our target schools?

How Leading Tuition Can Help

Our specialist Oxford-educated tutors have a strong track record of preparing children for Surrey's most selective grammar schools including Tiffin, RGS Guildford and Nonsuch. We offer transparent pricing and provide parents with regular progress updates. Book a free consultation to discuss your child's preparation and get an honest assessment of what they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does 11+ tutoring cost per hour?

In Surrey and the South-East, experienced specialist 11+ tutors typically charge £45–£70 per hour. Rates below £30/hour often indicate limited specialist experience. Online tuition is generally 10–20% cheaper than in-person.

Q: How many sessions does a child need for the 11+?

Children who begin 12–18 months before the exam typically have 1–2 sessions per week. Children starting 6 months out may need 2–3 sessions per week. A good tutor will give you a realistic assessment at the outset.

Q: Is 11+ tutoring worth the cost?

For families targeting selective schools, specialist tutoring typically produces measurable improvements. The value depends on the quality of the tutor and how systematically they work — specialist experience with your target schools' exam format is essential.

Q: What should I look for in an 11+ tutor?

Look for specialist knowledge of your target schools' exam format, experience with Year 5–6 children, a structured approach with measurable progress, strong references from parents whose children gained grammar school places, and good rapport with your child.