St Dunstan's College 11+ Entrance Exam Guide
St Dunstan's College is an independent school with entry at 11+ into Year 7. This guide explains who can apply, the assessments, how offers are made and how to prepare. We update it whenever the school changes its admissions.
About the school
- A co-educational independent day school in Catford, south-east London. Ages 3 to 18.
Who can apply
- Children in Year 6 (for September 2027 entry, born 1 September 2015 to 31 August 2016).
- Independent schools have no catchment area. You apply to the school directly, through its online portal.
- An application fee is payable.
Key dates for September 2027 entry
- Closing date: Monday 23 November 2026 (scholarship form due the same day)
- Part 1 assessment: Saturday 5 December 2026
- Part 2 assessment (by invitation): Monday 11 January 2027
- Interviews: week beginning Monday 25 January 2027
- Offers: Friday 12 February 2027
Children now in Year 5: expect similar dates next year. Check the school's page in the spring.
The assessments
Part 1
Computer-based GL Assessment tests in English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning, taken at the College.
Part 2
A taught lesson, then a written English paper (comprehension and a persuasive writing task) and a Maths paper.
Interview
Children who do well in Part 2 are invited to interview.
How offers are made
St Dunstan's makes its own offers on Friday 12 February 2027, through its online portal.
Scholarships and bursaries
- Academic Scholarships: you cannot apply; pupils are chosen from their results.
- Spire Scholarships: Art, Drama, Music and Sport.
- Wren Scholarships (means-tested bursaries) for families with a gross income under £75,000; these can reach full fees for the highest-attaining pupils.
How to help your child prepare
- Computer tests. Part 1 is on screen. Practise GL-style English, Maths, VR and NVR questions, including on a computer.
- Persuasive writing. Part 2 asks for persuasive writing, not a story. Practise a clear opinion, reasons and a strong ending.
- Maths. Cover all of Key Stage 2 by the end of Year 5 and show working clearly.
- Practice material: the school offers sample Maths, English reading and English writing papers on its preparation page.
- Read every day. Wide reading builds the vocabulary and comprehension every entrance test needs.
- Interview. Help your child talk about their interests, the books they read and how they solved a problem. There is no need to learn answers by heart.
Common questions from parents
Does St Dunstan's use the ISEB pre-test?
No. Part 1 uses GL Assessment tests, and Part 2 is the school's own.
Is there a preparation course?
Yes. The school runs an optional paid course in October half-term. Check its page for dates and fee waivers.
Can we apply to several schools?
Yes. Many families apply to a few independent schools and grammar schools. Watch the different registration deadlines.
Official information
Always check the school's own pages before making decisions. Dates and arrangements can change each year.
How AshACE® can help
AshACE® runs live online 11+ classes in English, Maths and Reasoning from Year 4, run from Orpington, with over a decade of 11+ teaching. Our Year 6 Masterclasses include preparation for independent school entrance papers. See the classes below, or send us an enquiry.
Sources: St Dunstan's College official admissions pages; checked 1 October 2026.