Admissions processes differ significantly between state and independent schools. Here's what you need to know, from deadlines to oversubscription criteria.
When a school has more applicants than places, places are allocated in this priority order:
Secondary applications open
Year 6 children applying for Year 7
Secondary deadline
Applications must be submitted by this date
Secondary National Offer Day
Families receive their offer by email/letter
Primary applications open
Children applying for Reception
Primary deadline
Applications must be submitted by this date
Primary National Offer Day
Families receive their offer
4+
Reception entry to prep schools
7+
Year 3 entry to junior schools
11+
Year 7 entry to senior schools
13+
Year 9 entry (Common Entrance)
16+
Sixth form entry for A-Levels/IB
You have the right to appeal for any state school that turned you down. The appeal is heard by an independent panel.
You can also join the waiting list — schools must keep these open until at least 31 December. Your place on the list is determined by oversubscription criteria, not when you joined.
For in-year admissions (moving mid-year), apply directly to the school or through the local authority.