City of London School for Girls (CLSG) is one of London’s most academically selective independent day schools for girls. With 11+ as the main entry point, the admissions process is competitive and carefully structured to assess academic potential, reasoning ability and readiness for the school’s intellectually demanding environment.
At Clarendon Tutors, we support pupils applying to City of London School for Girls at 11+, preparing them for both stages of assessment and the interview process with targeted, thoughtful guidance.
About City of London School for Girls
Founded in 1894 and located in the Barbican, City of London School for Girls is known for its outstanding academic results, strong pastoral care and culture of independent thinking. Pupils are encouraged to analyse ideas, communicate clearly and engage confidently with challenge — qualities that are central to the admissions process.
11+ Entry to City of London School for Girls
Each year, a large number of candidates apply for a limited number of Year 7 places. The City of London School for Girls 11+ admissions process takes place in two assessment stages, followed by interviews for shortlisted pupils.
Understanding the structure of these assessments is key to effective preparation.
First Assessment: CEM Computer-Based Test
The first stage of the CLSG 11+ assessment is a one-hour computer-based test, designed by CEM. This assessment tests:
- numerical skills
- verbal reasoning
- non-verbal reasoning
The test is designed to assess underlying ability and potential rather than learned content. There are no official practice papers, though familiarisation materials are available to help pupils understand the on-screen format.
This first assessment typically takes place in mid-November, and successful candidates are invited forward to the second stage in December.
At Clarendon Tutors, we help pupils prepare for CEM-style assessments by developing speed, accuracy and confidence with unfamiliar question types.
Second Assessment: Written Papers and Interview
The second assessment stage takes place in early January and includes:
English (45 minutes)
The English paper tests creative writing and analytical skills. Pupils are expected to respond thoughtfully, structure their writing clearly and demonstrate control of language. CLSG publishes specimen papers, which provide useful insight into the style of assessment.
Mathematics (45 minutes)
The maths paper focuses on problem-solving and logical thinking, drawing on KS2 topics but often presented in unfamiliar ways. Clear working-out and methodical thinking are essential.
Pupils also spend time in lessons at the school, giving them a taste of academic life at CLSG.
CLSG 11+ Interview
Following the written assessments, shortlisted candidates are invited to interview, usually held in mid to late January. Interviews explore:
- academic interests and curiosity
- ability to explain thinking clearly
- confidence and communication
- engagement with learning
The interview is an important part of the decision-making process, allowing the school to assess how a pupil thinks and communicates beyond written papers.
Clarendon Tutors offers CLSG-specific 11+ interview preparation, helping pupils practise articulating ideas calmly and confidently.
What City of London School for Girls Looks For
Across both assessment stages and interview, CLSG looks for pupils who show:
- strong academic potential
- clear reasoning skills
- confidence with challenge
- intellectual curiosity
- thoughtful communication
Success depends on a balanced performance, not just exam technique alone.
Preparing for the City of London School for Girls 11+
Effective preparation for 11+ entry to City of London School for Girls should be structured and measured. Pupils benefit from:
- advanced English comprehension and writing practice
- high-quality maths problem-solving work
- familiarity with CEM-style reasoning questions
- timed exam practice
- targeted interview preparation
At Clarendon Tutors, we design bespoke CLSG 11+ preparation programmes that reflect the school’s assessment style and expectations.
How Clarendon Tutors Can Help
We support families applying to City of London School for Girls with:
- specialist 11+ English and maths tutoring
- preparation for CEM computer-based assessments
- exam-technique and reasoning development
- mock interviews tailored to CLSG
- clear guidance for parents throughout the process
Our approach is calm, personalised and highly experienced.
Final Thoughts
Securing a place at City of London School for Girls through the 11+ process is a significant achievement. With expert preparation and thoughtful support, pupils can approach each stage of assessment with confidence and clarity.
At Clarendon Tutors, we guide families through every step of the CLSG 11+ admissions journey, helping pupils present their ability authentically and effectively.