Navigating international school admissions in London can feel daunting when you are applying from overseas, juggling time zones, document requests and assessment dates. London is home to a dense cluster of international and independent schools offering the IB, British and American curricula, and competition for places in popular year groups is real. This 2026 guide explains how admissions work, what documents you will need, when to apply, and how language support is handled, so expat families can approach the process with confidence.
How international school admissions work in London
Most London international schools run rolling or termly admissions rather than a single national deadline, but the best places still fill early. The typical sequence is: enquiry and registration, submission of supporting documents, an assessment or interview, an offer, then payment of a deposit to confirm the place. Independent schools may also sit within the UK's 11+ or 13+ entry points, so the age of your child and the school's structure both shape the timeline.
Curricula and entry points
London schools broadly offer:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): a continuum from primary years through the Diploma, popular with globally mobile families.
- British curriculum: GCSEs and A-Levels with common entry at 11+ and 13+.
- American curriculum: US high school diploma with Advanced Placement, suited to families heading toward US universities.
If you expect to relocate again, the IB and American pathways tend to transfer most smoothly across countries.
When to apply
For September entry, aim to begin the process the previous autumn or winter, roughly nine to twelve months ahead for selective schools. Mid-year entry is sometimes possible where places open up, but you have far less choice. Applying to two or three schools in parallel is sensible given that assessment outcomes and waiting lists are hard to predict from abroad.
Documents you will need
Prepare a digital folder early. Schools commonly request:
- The last two years of school reports, translated into English if necessary.
- Passport copies and, where relevant, visa or right-to-study documentation.
- Reference or a transfer letter from the current school.
- Any educational psychology or learning-support reports.
- Immunisation and medical records.
Having these ready avoids delays when a school moves quickly to assessment.
Assessments, interviews and language support
Selective London schools usually assess applicants in English and mathematics, and may add reasoning tests or an interview. For families whose first language is not English, ask each school about English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, whether assessments are adjusted for new English learners, and how settled children are integrated. Strong EAL provision can make a significant difference to a child's first year.
London international schools to consider
TASIS England
An American international school serving families in and around London, offering a US curriculum alongside the IB Diploma and a long track record with internationally mobile families. See the TASIS England profile for admissions details and reviews.
Halcyon London International School
A central London IB-only school known for small classes and a fully international, non-selective ethos that appeals to relocating families. Review the Halcyon London International School profile.
A note on fees
London international and independent school fees are among the highest in the UK, commonly ranging from around GBP 20,000 to GBP 35,000 per year, rising in the senior and Diploma years. Budget separately for registration fees, deposits, uniforms and trips, and confirm the full schedule with each school during admissions.
Compare the best schools in the UK
For a regularly updated ranking with reviews and fee guidance, see the best international schools in the United Kingdom on ischooladvisor.com.
Frequently asked questions
When should I apply to international schools in London?
Begin nine to twelve months before your intended September start for selective schools. Mid-year places sometimes open up, but choice is far more limited, so apply early and to more than one school.
What documents do London international schools require?
Typically the last two years of school reports, passport copies, a reference from the current school, any learning-support reports, and immunisation records, with English translations where needed.
Is language support available for non-English speakers?
Many London international schools offer English as an Additional Language support and may adjust assessments for new English learners. Ask each school how EAL is delivered and how new arrivals are integrated.