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.

What is the typical format of How Much Does 11+ Tutoring Cost in 2026??

The 11+ format varies depending on the school and region, but most selective schools test verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English comprehension. Some schools use the GL Assessment or CEM format; others set their own papers. The key differences between formats include question types, timing, and whether calculators are permitted. Understanding the specific format used by your target school is essential before starting structured preparation, as this determines which skills to prioritise and which practice materials to use.

How can Leading Tuition help with How Much Does 11+ Tutoring Cost in 2026??

Leading Tuition offers specialist 11+ tuition tailored to How Much Does 11+ Tutoring Cost in 2026?. Our tutors understand the exact assessment format, including verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English components. We create personalised preparation plans based on your child's current level and target timeline, with regular mock exams under timed conditions. Rated Excellent on Trustpilot, we have helped hundreds of families secure grammar and independent school places across the UK. Book a free consultation to discuss your child's preparation strategy.