5.5+ IELTS Score - Minimum for most boarding schools
Years 7-8 (Age 11-13)
Common entry point for junior boarding
UK Boarding
UK Boarding
UK Boarding School Admission Requirements for International Students
Navigating the admissions process for UK boarding schools requires careful planning and preparation. Our comprehensive guide outlines everything international families need to know to secure a place at Britain's renowned educational institutions.
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Years of Experience
Entry Age and Academic Levels
Start at the Right Age, Learn at the Right Level
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Years 9-11 (Age 13-16)
Major intake point for senior school
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Years 12-13 (Age 16-18)
Sixth Form entry for A-Levels/IB
UK boarding schools enforce strict age requirements with specific intake years. Most international students enter at ages 11, 13 or 16, coinciding with key academic transition points. Birth certificates or passport verification is mandatory
Academic Qualifications
Recognized Qualifications for a Global Future
Academic Records
Comprehensive school reports from the previous 2-3 years showing consistent academic performance across all core subjects.
Academic Records
Comprehensive school reports from the previous 2-3 years showing consistent academic performance across all core subjects.
Subject Strengths
Evidence of particular strengths in mathematics, sciences and English. For Sixth Form entry, strong results in subjects intended for further study
Subject Strengths
Evidence of particular strengths in mathematics, sciences and English. For Sixth Form entry, strong results in subjects intended for further study
Academic Potential
Demonstrated ability to thrive in a rigorous British curriculum, with evidence of critical thinking and independent learning skills.
Academic Potential
Demonstrated ability to thrive in a rigorous British curriculum, with evidence of critical thinking and independent learning skills.
International applicants must provide translated academic transcripts showing strong performance. Top-tier schools expect excellence across core subjects, while others assess potential alongside achievement
English Language
Proficiency
Master English. Unlock Global Opportunities.
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80% Comprehension - Required English understanding level
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2-4 EAL Sessions - Weekly support lessons typically offered
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate sufficient language proficiency through standardised tests. Schools typically require IELTS scores of 5.5-6.5 or equivalent. Many institutions offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students who need linguistic reinforcement alongside their studies.
Admissions Process and Key Documents
From Application to Acceptance – Every Step Simplified
Step
Application Form
Complete online school-specific application with personal details and educational history
The application process requires meticulous attention to detail and proper documentation. All materials must be officially translated into English where necessary. Most schools have online application systems but may request hard copies of certain documents.
Entrance Exams and Interviews
Your Success Starts with Smart Preparation
Academic Assessment
Mathematics, English, and reasoning tests appropriate to entry level
Academic Assessment
Mathematics, English, and reasoning tests appropriate to entry level
English Proficiency
Written and verbal language skills evaluation
English Proficiency
Written and verbal language skills evaluation
Personal Interview
Discussion of interests, aspirations and personality assessment
Personal Interview
Discussion of interests, aspirations and personality assessment
Additional Assessments
Subject-specific, sports or arts evaluations where relevant
Additional Assessments
Subject-specific, sports or arts evaluations where relevant
Most prestigious boarding schools conduct rigorous testing to assess academic ability. Common assessments include UKiset, ISEB Common Entrance or school-specific papers. Interviews evaluate communication skills, cultural fit, and personal qualities, and may be conducted virtually for international applicants.
Guardianship, Visas, and Residency Rules
Secure Stay. Clear Rules. Trusted Support.
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Appoint UK Guardian
Designate a responsible adult resident in the UK who can act on parents' behalf. This individual must be available for emergencies and exeats. Professional guardianship services are available.
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Secure Appropriate Visa
Apply for Child Student Visa (under 16) or Student Visa (16+) through the school as sponsor. Allow 3+ months for processing and prepare for biometric appointments.
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Provide Financial Evidence
Demonstrate ability to pay tuition and living expenses. UK authorities require proof of sufficient funds maintained for at least 28 days prior to application.
UK regulations mandate that all international students under 18 must have a designated guardian residing within the country. This requirement is strictly enforced, with schools often maintaining a list of approved guardianship organisations for families without UK connections.
Application Deadlines and Offers
Timely Applications, Timely Offers
When should I apply for Year 7 entry (age 11)?
Applications typically open 12-18 months before entry. Registration deadlines fall between October-December of the year preceding entry, with assessments in January
What are the deadlines for Year 9 entry (age 13)?
Most schools require registration 18-24 months ahead. Pre-tests often occur 2-3 years before entry, with final assessments 12 months prior to admission.
When should I apply for Sixth Form (age 16+)?
Applications open 12 months before entry with deadlines between October-January. Conditional offers depend on GCSE/equivalent results and English proficiency.
What happens after receiving an offer?
Accept with a non-refundable deposit (£1,000-£3,000). Schools provide pre-arrival information, visa guidance, and orientation programmes for international students.
Competition for places at top UK boarding schools is intense, especially for international students. Early application is strongly recommended, as many schools operate on a first-come, first-served basis once minimum requirements are met.
