7 Plus Dulwich College Guide
The 7 Plus Dulwich College entrance test is an opportunity to access a school rich in heritage, beauty and academic and sporting excellent.

A Guide to 7 Plus Dulwich College Entrance Exam
Dulwich College is one of London’s leading independent schools for boys, known for its academic rigor, extensive extracurricular offerings, and strong pastoral care. Located in Dulwich, the school provides a dynamic and well-rounded educational experience that nurtures intellectual curiosity and character development. The 7 Plus entrance to Dulwich College is a highly competitive process, with the school placing a strong emphasis on academic excellence, particularly in Mathematics. While historically a key entry point for new pupils, the expansion of DUCKS at 4 Plus has led to a reduced intake at 7 Plus, making entry even more selective.
Applying for 7 Plus at Dulwich College
With a limited number of places available at 7 Plus, admission to Dulwich College is extremely competitive. The school prioritises applicants who demonstrate high academic ability, with a particular focus on strong mathematical skills. The selection process ensures that those offered places are well-suited to the school’s challenging and engaging learning environment.
7 Plus Dulwich College Exam Format
The 7 Plus Dulwich College exam assesses core academic competencies and problem-solving skills. The format includes:
- Mathematics – The most heavily weighted subject, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, number fluency, multi-step word problems, and reasoning-based questions.
- English – Tests comprehension skills, vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing ability.
- Reasoning – Includes verbal and non-verbal reasoning to assess logical thinking and pattern recognition.
- Interview & Group Exercises – Provides an opportunity for children to showcase their problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and communication.
Mathematics Focus – What the 7+ Dulwich College Exam Looks For
Dulwich College places particular importance on mathematical ability at 7 Plus. The exam features advanced numerical reasoning questions and problem-solving challenges that require strong conceptual understanding and fluency. Applicants must be confident in mental arithmetic, multi-step problem-solving, and applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Academic Expectations – Mastering Key Concepts
Despite sitting the exam in January of Year 2, applicants must demonstrate mastery of key Year 3 curriculum topics, particularly in Mathematics. Children should have a strong grasp of:
- Number bonds, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
- Fractions, decimals, and place value.
- Problem-solving techniques, including logical reasoning and multi-step calculations.
- Spatial awareness and pattern recognition in non-verbal reasoning tasks.
Challenges for State School Applicants
Given the high academic expectations, children coming from state schools may find the 7 Plus process particularly challenging, especially in Mathematics, where independent schools often teach beyond the standard national curriculum. We recommend structured preparation from an early age, ideally through a pre-prep school such as The Villa, Herne Hill, and DUCKs, which align with the academic demands of independent school entrance exams.
How to Prepare for the 7 Plus Dulwich College Exam
To maximise success, a structured preparation plan is essential. Key preparation strategies include:
- Strengthening problem-solving and numerical fluency in Mathematics, ensuring children can tackle multi-step problems quickly and accurately.
- Enhancing comprehension and creative writing skills to excel in English assessments.
- Regularly practising verbal and non-verbal reasoning exercises to develop logical thinking.
- Encouraging independent thinking and confident communication for interviews and group activities.
When to Begin Preparation – A Long-Term Approach
The most successful applicants begin preparation well in advance. Most families start structured learning from pre-reception, progressing through reception and Year 1 with a targeted focus on foundational skills. By Year 1, children should be comfortable working on Year 2 and early Year 3 material to ensure they meet the high expectations of Dulwich College’s assessment process.
How Mentor Education Can Support Your Child
At Mentor Education, we specialise in preparing children for the 7+ Dulwich College entry process. Our bespoke support includes expert one-on-one tuition, mock exams, interview coaching, and holiday courses to develop essential skills and build confidence. Our structured approach ensures students are fully equipped to tackle the competitive exam process.
Next Steps – Get in Touch
If Dulwich College is your preferred school and you would like expert guidance on preparing your child, our team at Mentor Education is ready to assist. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child achieve success in the 7 Plus Dulwich College admissions process.
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