Can you apply for state schools and private schools at the same time?

Can you apply for state schools and private schools at the same time?

The distinct differences between state and private schools are defined by four factors: funding, curriculum, facilities, and admissions. The result is two very separate school systems. Despite this polarity, when it comes to applying for a school for your child, they are not mutually exclusive – you can apply for state schools and private schools concurrently.

What you’ll learn in this quick guide

• Overview of state and private school application processes
• State and private school application requirements that impact families relocating to the UK
• State and private school application deadlines
• Frequently asked questions

School application process

While you can apply for both types of school simultaneously, the application processes for each are distinct and managed separately:

• State schools: You must submit your application through your local council’s online admissions system, listing schools in order of preference.
• Private schools: Applications are made directly to a private school which has its own admissions procedure, including entrance exams and interviews.

As a family relocating to the UK, these contrasting processes expose you to specific requirements.

State schools: UK address

The residency criteria for attending a state school in the UK requires you to provide proof of your child’s permanent UK address – it’s against the law to use a false address in your application. Therefore, you can only apply for a place at a state school once you are living in the UK and can prove it.

The specific documents required can vary by local authority, but commonly accepted proofs include a council tax bill, tenancy agreement, and utility bills.

Private schools: fees

Private schools are autonomous, so you won’t have to follow the same rigid admissions processes as the state sector. Therefore, you can apply before arriving in the UK and securing a UK address. If your application is successful, you must be prepared to secure your child’s place by paying one term of fees upfront as a type of deposit.

Deadlines

You should be aware of the deadlines for applying to state schools:

• Primary schools: The application window is typically September to 15 January for entry in the following academic year.​
• Secondary schools: The application window is typically 1 September to 31 October for entry the following academic year.

Meanwhile, application deadlines for private schools are set independently by these self-governing institutions. Some schools require applications to be submitted up to two years in advance, while others may accept applications closer to the start date. Amid these variations, it’s essential to check each school’s specific admissions timeline by viewing their admissions page or contacting their admissions office.

Take the Simply London Schools Quiz to work out when you should apply:

When is the right time to apply for a school place, take the quiz to find out.

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What type of school would you like your children to attend in London?

• State (free) school
• Private (independent) school
• Not sure yet

Next

Which school year will your child be attending?

• Reception (4 to 5 years old)
• Year 7 (11 to 12 years old)
• Any other school year

Next

And when would your child start school?

• In September
• After September

Find out when you should apply for a school place

Private Schools - All School Years

• You can apply before you have an address in the UK.
• You can apply before you have moved to London.
• You can apply anytime for an immediate or later start.

Reception (4 to 5 years old) in a State School

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.

For a September start:

• if possible, apply by January 15 of the same year
• If you cannot apply before January 15, you should apply shortly before September, in July at the earliest

Reception (4 to 5 years old) in a State School

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.
• For a start date other than September: apply when your child is in the UK and ready to go to school immediately

Year 7 (11 to 12 years old) in a State School

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.
• For a September start: if possible, apply by October 31 of the previous year
• If you cannot apply before October 31, you should apply shortly before September, in July at the earliest

Year 7 (11 to 12 years old) in a State School

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.
• For a start date other than September: apply when your child is in the UK and ready to go to school immediately

State school - outside of Reception and Year 7

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.
• For a September start, you can apply at the earliest in July.
• You cannot apply in advance for a September start.

State school - outside of Reception and Year 7

• You can only apply once you have a permanent address in the UK.
• For a start after September, you should apply when your child is ready to start school immediately

Not sure which school type your children should attend?

Take our survey to find out what would be best for your family. State school or private school? Take the quiz.

Start again

Frequently asked questions

Will applying to a private school negatively impact my application to a state school?

No, state schools do not generally know or consider whether you’re also applying to private schools.

If I receive offers from a state and a private school, can I accept both initially and decide later?

You can initially hold multiple offers, but private schools often require acceptance deposits to be paid by a certain date. Withdrawing your application may result in forfeiting deposits or fees.

Do I need separate application forms for state and private schools?

Yes, state schools require applications through forms provided by the local authority, whereas private schools typically have their own application forms and procedures.

Sources

• Simply London – How to apply for a private school
• Simply London – How to apply for state schools in London
• UK Government – School admissions

Consult with Simply London

Our schools’ experts can provide personalised guidance and support on the state and private school admissions process. Using their knowledge and experience, they can help you select and apply for top-performing state schools or selective private schools simultaneously, contact us today!

We’ve helped so many people to find and apply for a place at their ideal school in London, find out what some of them have to say about our services here.

Article published 13th May 2025