How to apply for a private school

Applying for private schools in London is very different from applying for state schools:

1. You can apply before you are in the UK, months or sometimes even years in advance.
2. You do not have to live in the vicinity of the school to apply or to have a chance of getting a place.

Here are some useful things to know about private schools in London and applying for them:

• All private schools decide on their own admission criteria - they are totally independent in this matter.
• Some schools require pupils to take an entrance exam.
• Some schools might invite the family for an interview.
• Some schools operate a first-come, first-served system and may have a long waiting list.
• Some schools require parents to register their child before an application is made – this doesn’t guarantee a place.
• A non-refundable application fee is often requested, to cover administration costs.

Here is how applications work for private schools in London: