London hosts one of the world's deepest and most competitive international school markets. Whether you are arriving from New York, Singapore or Dubai, securing a place at the right school depends on understanding a calendar that runs earlier than most other capitals, and on getting your paperwork right the first time.
This 2026 step-by-step guide walks through international school admissions in London from shortlist to acceptance, including assessments, fees and what to plan for during your first year.
The London International School Landscape
London families typically choose between three broad school types:
- International schools (IB and American): Schools that follow the IB Diploma, AP, or a mix of US, Canadian and international qualifications. Often the most natural fit for short and medium postings.
- British independent schools: Highly selective day and boarding schools following the English national curriculum, IGCSE and A-Levels. Popular among long-staying expat families.
- Bilingual schools: French, German, Spanish, Japanese and other national schools, which sit alongside the British and international segments.
Top International Schools in London
ACS International School Hillingdon
Part of the ACS group, offering both the IB Diploma and the American high school diploma. Popular with families on multi-country rotations and US-bound graduates.
Atelier 21 Future School
A small, project-based independent school in west London that takes a non-traditional approach to senior school qualifications. A different option for families who want personalised, mixed-age learning.
Bedford School
A long-established British boys' school in commuting distance of London, offering A-Levels and the IB Diploma. Day and boarding options available.
Brentwood School
A co-educational independent school east of London with both A-Level and IB pathways. Strong sports and arts programmes alongside selective academics.
Ashcroft Technology Academy
A free, state-funded academy in south London with a strong STEM focus. Worth considering for families settling permanently in London who do not need a fee-paying option.
Admissions Timeline: Step-by-Step
- 18 months before start (autumn): Begin researching schools, attend virtual open days, narrow to a shortlist of four to six schools.
- 12 months before: Register interest with admissions teams. Many selective schools require registration by a specific date.
- 9-12 months before: Submit applications. Pay registration fees (typically £150 - £350 per school).
- 6-9 months before: Sit assessments. These commonly include Maths and English tests, a writing task, and an interview from age 7 upwards. For Year 7 entry, also expect a verbal and non-verbal reasoning test.
- 3-6 months before: Receive offers. Accept and pay the deposit (often equal to one term of tuition) within the deadline.
- Before start: Complete uniform orders, medical forms, school bus registration and parent association sign-ups.
Assessments at London International Schools
Most schools test at least:
- Mathematics in the appropriate year-group range
- English reading comprehension and a short writing task
- A formal interview, in person or video, for senior school
- Verbal and non-verbal reasoning tests for selective Year 7 entry (often the ISEB pre-test for British independent schools)
For non-native English speakers, schools may also run an EAL assessment to confirm whether immediate full-curriculum entry or temporary in-class support is needed.
International School Fees in London
2026 tuition ranges (£, annual, day schools):
- Early years (ages 3-5): £15,000 - £22,000
- Primary (ages 6-10): £20,000 - £30,000
- Middle years (ages 11-14): £25,000 - £38,000
- Senior school / A-Level / IB DP: £28,000 - £45,000
Boarding adds £20,000 - £30,000 per year on top of day tuition. Application fees, registration deposits and one-off enrolment fees are common, and most schools charge VAT on tuition from January 2025 onwards, which families should now budget into their headline number.
Document Checklist
- Last two academic years' reports
- Most recent standardised test results, where available
- Passport copies and UK visa or settled status documents
- Two recommendation letters (one from the current head teacher)
- Medical and immunisation records
- Proof of London address for catchment-based schools
Build your London shortlist
Compare curriculum options, locations and reviews for London schools on our UK international schools ranking.
FAQ
When do international schools in London open admissions?
Many open registrations 18 months before entry. Highly selective schools may stop accepting registrations 12 months before the September start.
Do international schools in London apply VAT to fees?
Yes. Since January 2025, VAT applies to UK private school tuition. Always check whether the headline fee you are quoted is inclusive or exclusive of VAT.
Can I apply mid-year in London?
Mid-year applications are accepted when places are available, especially below Year 9. Senior years tied to GCSE or A-Level syllabuses are harder to enter once the academic year has started.