Government guidance that parents should know the results of school entry tests before finalising applications for places is still being flouted.
Research shows more schools in England are using selection tests, and parents already find the system too complex.
The government says its admissions code – which admissions authorities must abide by – is now fairer than ever.
The loophole is that it contains clauses to which admissions authorities “should” adhere – not “must”.
On selection tests, the admissions code says: “Grammar schools and other schools, or their admission authorities, which are permitted to use selection by ability or aptitude, should ensure that parents are informed of the outcome of entry tests before they make their applications for other schools.”