London is one of the most competitive private school markets in the world, and for international families the admissions process can feel layered and opaque. The good news: the rules are largely consistent if you know what to look for. This 2026 admissions guide explains how private school admissions in London actually work, the key dates, the assessments your child will sit, and the documents you should have ready before you arrive.
How private school admissions work in London
Most London private schools fall into one of three admissions tracks for international families:
- Pre-prep and prep schools (3 to 11 years): assessment-based, typically gentle group activities for nursery and reception, more formal short tests from age seven.
- 11+ entry to senior schools: ISEB Common Pre-Test in Year 6, followed by school-specific written and interview rounds.
- 13+ entry: Common Entrance or scholarship papers, plus interviews; some senior schools now run 13+ pre-tests.
Sixth Form entry (Year 12, age 16) usually involves subject-specific tests, predicted GCSE or IGCSE grades, and an interview. Many international families enter London via this route to align with A-Level or IB Diploma.
Timelines you cannot afford to miss
London admissions run on long lead times. As a working baseline for September 2027 entry:
- September 2025 to January 2026: register for 11+ pre-tests; many schools close registration in autumn of Year 5.
- Autumn 2026: Common Pre-Test sat at home or at a centre.
- November 2026 to February 2027: assessment days, interviews and offers.
- March 2027: deposits to secure place.
If your relocation is on a faster timeline, contact the registrar directly. Many London private schools accept casual vacancies in non-entry years, especially in Years 4, 5, 7 and 12.
Top London private schools for international families
Wetherby School Notting Hill
A boys' pre-prep in central London known for its structured early years and strong onward feeder track. Popular with international families based in Notting Hill, Bayswater and Holland Park. Wetherby Notting Hill on ISA.
Wetherby School Kensington
The Kensington campus extends through to Year 8, with a focus on academic preparation for senior school entry. Wetherby Kensington on ISA.
Pembridge Hall School
An all-girls' pre-prep on the same Notting Hill axis as Wetherby, often considered alongside it by sister-and-brother families. Pembridge Hall on ISA.
Fulham School
A through-school covering pre-prep, prep and senior phases, with a long international roll. Useful if you want a single admissions process across multiple year groups. Fulham School on ISA.
St. Anthony's School
Hampstead-based prep with a Catholic ethos and a strong record placing pupils into competitive 11+ destinations. St. Anthony's on ISA.
Fees and what you actually pay
London private school fees in 2026 typically fall into the following ranges (per term, three terms a year):
- Pre-prep: GBP 7,500 to GBP 9,500
- Prep: GBP 8,500 to GBP 11,000
- Senior day school: GBP 9,000 to GBP 12,500
- Boarding senior: GBP 14,000 to GBP 19,000
Add registration and assessment fees (usually GBP 200 to GBP 400 per school), a refundable deposit on offer, and lunches, trips and uniform. Note that VAT on private school fees is now in effect, so fee schedules may show 20 percent VAT separately.
Documents to prepare in advance
- Last two years of school reports, ideally in English.
- Current head teacher reference (the registrar will request this directly in many cases).
- Standardised test scores if available (MAP, CAT4, ISEE).
- Proof of address in the UK or under offer.
- Birth certificate and passport copies, plus any visa or right-to-study documentation.
- Previous learning support reports if relevant.
Practical tips for international applicants
- Apply to a balanced list. Aim for two highly selective schools, two that match the academic profile, and one stretch lower-pressure option.
- Visit if you can. A 30-minute campus tour reveals more about ethos than any prospectus.
- Time your move. Arriving by August lets your child sit local mock exams before the pre-test window opens.
- Use a known assessment centre overseas. The British Council and several international school networks host the ISEB pre-test for offshore applicants.
For a wider view across the country, see the ISA ranking of the best schools in the United Kingdom.
FAQ
What is the ISEB Common Pre-Test and who has to sit it?
The ISEB Common Pre-Test is an online cognitive and academic assessment used by many London senior schools at 11+ entry. Most pupils sit it in Year 6 at their current school, an approved centre or, by arrangement, at home with a proctor.
Can my child apply to a London private school from overseas?
Yes. London private schools routinely accept overseas applicants. Plan for travel to attend an interview day or assessment. Many schools also accept Skype or in-person interviews abroad through their international admissions office.
How early should we register?
For competitive 11+ entry, register at the start of Year 5, around 18 to 24 months before assessment. For other year groups, register at least 12 months ahead of the intended start date and ask about casual vacancies if you are mid-year.