Parent question Timeline question Updated 26 May 2026

What should we do after the 11+ exam?

What parents should do between the 11+ test day and the result or CAF deadline.

Use the waiting period well

The days after the test can feel empty, but there is useful work for parents. Results will help narrow choices, but they should not be the first time you read school policies.

This is especially important where results arrive close to the CAF deadline.

What to do next

  • Save the result date.
  • Check open events and booking deadlines.
  • Read admissions policies for target schools.
  • Test journeys at school times.
  • Decide which non-grammar schools remain realistic.
  • Keep the CAF draft flexible until the result arrives.

Example

A family waits for results before visiting any schools. When the result arrives, the CAF deadline is close and two open days have already passed. It becomes harder to compare calmly.

Give the child a break

The child has done the test. Let them return to normal school life while adults handle the policy, travel and deadline work.