The key differences between independent and grammar schools
By Atom | Sep 25, 2025, 1:54 PM
Are you considering independent or grammar schools for your child’s secondary education?
Whether you’re comparing the two school types or debating whether to apply to both, we’re here to help. In some regions, there is a lot of choice when it comes to grammar and independent schools.
We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the key similarities and differences so that you can make the best decision for your child. Read on to find out:
The main differences and similarities between grammar and independent schools
Further information on the admissions process for both types of school
Top tips on applying to both independent and grammar schools
Advice on how to support your child with school entrance exams
What are the key differences between grammar schools and independent schools?
Grammar schools are a type of selective secondary school in the UK. They offer places to children based on their academic ability in an entrance exam commonly known as the 11+. Children take the exam in Year 6 to apply for a place in Year 7 (aged 11).
Grammar schools are state-funded, meaning parents and guardians do not need to pay school fees. They can be co-educational or single-sex, and many have a catchment area or other entry requirements. This will be set out in your target school's admissions policy.
Most grammar schools provide high-quality teaching and a range of extra-curricular activities. Places for grammar schools can be highly competitive. The entrance exams vary for grammar schools depending on which region you are in. For example, in counties such as Kent, there is a high concentration of grammar schools, and children will take the Kent Test.
Independent schools, on the other hand, are funded privately and not by the state. This is why they’re often referred to as private schools. Families need to pay school fees for their child (termly or annually), although scholarships and/or bursaries might be available to help with costs.
Independent schools are free to set their own curriculum and admissions processes, with some opting for selective admissions similar, but not the same, as grammar schools. Schools may also be co-educational or single-sex, and some offer provision for boarding. There’s a wide variety of independent schools in the UK, meaning parents can choose the environment that works best for their child.
Many independent schools offer smaller class sizes than state-funded schools and often have state-of-the-art facilities. There are plenty of historic independent schools in the UK, with notable alumni and a strong network for former students to utilise.
What are the application processes like for grammar and independent schools?
One of the key differences between grammar and independent schools is the application and admissions process.
Grammar school admissions consist of the following:
Parents typically need to register their child for grammar school entry by the end of Year 5. Exact dates vary between school and region.
The 11+ test is taken in September or early October of Year 6 for entrance into Year 7.
After the exam results are released in mid-October, parents will need to officially apply to their target schools.
To do this, you’ll need to complete the Secondary School Common Application form (CAF) and submit it to your local authority by the end of October.
Offers of places are then made in early March of Year 6.
Independent school admissions consist of the following:
Parents will need to identify their target schools and check the individual dates set by the school for each stage.
Open days are set by the school and may happen in the Autumn Term or throughout the year.
Application deadlines vary per school, with no universal set deadline.
Parents usually need to pay a non-refundable registration fee to apply to an independent school.
Independent school entrance exams are held a little later – usually by the end of the autumn term or early in the spring term of Year 6.
The requirements for the exam vary between schools, with some setting additional tasks such as creative writing or an interview.
Offers are typically made in the Spring Term of Year 6, but, again, it’s important to check with your target school.
Can you apply to both grammar and independent schools?
Yes, you can! There is no reason not to apply to both grammar and independent schools if there are multiple schools you feel your child would thrive in.
The application processes are separate, with grammar school choices sent to your local council and independent school applications sent directly to each target school.
With places for independent schools typically offered before grammar schools, this gives parents flexibility to weigh up their options as offers come in. You can withdraw your application to either school type, depending on other offers.
It’s worth noting that independent schools typically charge a non-refundable registration fee for each application. So it’s a good idea to be clear and realistic about which schools really are your priorities.
Top tips for applying to grammar and/or independent schools
Admissions can be competitive for selective schools. Here are our top tips to maximise your child’s chances of getting offered a place.
1. Make a shortlist
After researching your target schools thoroughly, including checking entry requirements, catchment areas, key dates, exam formats and what results are needed, make a shortlist ranking your preferred schools. Consider the travel time to each school and whether it is a good fit for your child when weighing up your options.
2. Visit open days
Attending open days is a great way to get a feel for how a school is run, meet key staff and existing pupils, and get a sense of whether the school is right for your child. You can find open days advertised on your target school’s website, or some schools offer private viewings if you can’t make the official open day.
3. Understand the exam
Next, you’ll want to understand what the entrance exam will consist of and what score your child needs to aim for. Check the test format and what’s included, particularly whether there are additional steps, such as an interview. Creating a tailored exam plan will help you make sure you cover everything your child needs for success.
4. Practise, practise, practise
Using practice papers, online resources and worksheets, it’s helpful to give your child plenty of time to practice and feel confident tackling the entrance exams. Topics such as verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning may not be covered in school in the same way, so it’s important you introduce these concepts well in advance of the exam.
5. Make time for celebration
Regardless of the outcome of the tests, make time to celebrate your child’s progress along the way! Celebrate their effort both during preparation and after the exams to build their confidence and help take the stress out of entrance exams.
How can I help my child prepare for both grammar and independent school exams?
Preparing for grammar and independent school entrance exams can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone.
Atom Home provides your child with a fully personalised learning journey and everything they need to succeed, while giving you the clarity and confidence to support them every step of the way.
Here’s how Atom supports your family:
School-specific preparation: Prepare for standardised and bespoke exams with a tailored exam plan that matches your target schools’ exact exam formats and entry requirements.
Smart, adaptive learning: Atom adjusts to your child’s ability in real time, so they stay motivated, progress confidently, and prepare at the right level.
Unlimited mock tests: Familiarise your child with the 11+ exam structure, question styles and timings using our unlimited online mock tests and downloadable paper tests.
Expert advice and insights: You can access real-time progress tracking and personalised next steps, plus webinars, timelines, and expert support to guide your journey.
Tried and trusted: Join 100,000+ families who’ve used Atom to gain places at top independent and grammar schools – including Eton College, City of London School, Henrietta Barnett School, Tiffin School and more.
Ace your entrance exams
Whether your child is just beginning their 11+ journey or polishing up their exam technique, Atom gives them everything they need to succeed in their entrance exams and beyond.
