UK Schools’ Admissions Timelines: A Guide for International Families

Whilst the Admissions timelines vary from school to school, it is advisable to start considering senior schools early in Year 5. This is because several schools close their registrations for Year 9 places at the end of Year 5.

Many schools have a Year 6 pre-test as part of their Admissions process. These can vary from school to school but several use the ISEB Common Pre-test, or Quest, or their own assessment. These are usually followed by an interview either online or in person. Interviews can be one to one, or as part of a group, depending on the school’s approach.

Please don’t worry if you have missed the first opportunity to apply to a school in Year 5 or 6, as many schools also offer a ‘Late Entry’ route.