ADVICE FOR PARENTS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS APPLYING TO UK BOARDING SCHOOLS
According to the 2024 ISC Census, international pupils make up around 4.7% of all pupils at UK independent schools. This reflects a well-established global community within British boarding, offering reassurance that schools are highly experienced in supporting families from overseas.
For parents, preparing a child to live and study abroad raises many questions about admissions, visas, cultural adjustment, and wellbeing. This guide is designed to provide practical advice and reassurance as you consider the journey ahead.
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For official information on the UK admissions process from overseas, you can also refer to the UK government’s guidance.
1. Understand the UK Education and Boarding System
In the UK, “independent school” (also known as “private school”) refers to a fee-paying school that operates outside the state system. A “boarding school” is an independent school where pupils live on campus during term time.
Typical entry points for international pupils are:
- 11+ (Year 7) – entry to senior school or upper prep as is the case for Repton Prep.
- 13+ (Year 9) – a common point for pupils transferring from prep schools
- 16+ (Sixth Form) – for A Level or IB studies before university
- It is important to distinguish between prep schools (for younger pupils, often ages 4-13), senior schools (11 or 13-18), and sixth form (16-18).
2. Start Early – Admissions Timelines and Key Dates
Admissions to UK boarding schools are highly structured, with many families beginning their applications one to two years in advance. Key steps include:
- Registration – submitting an application form and fee
- Assessments – entrance tests, interviews, and reports or references from current schools
- Offers – conditional upon exam performance or other requirements
Every school sets its own deadlines, so early planning helps avoid disappointment. Repton’s Admissions Overview provides further detail.
3. Learn About the Student Visa Process
Most pupils applying from overseas will need a Child Student Visa. Independent schools often employ expert third party organisations to manage this process on the family’s behalf. Upon a successful offer of a place, your school will open a case file and you will be contacted by the immigration consultants who will support you through your application. Visa planning should run alongside the school application process to avoid delays. More information can be found on the UK government website or Repton’s overseas applicants page.
4. Understand Guardianship Requirements
For families living overseas, UK law requires that all pupils have a guardian based in the UK. This ensures that there is a trusted adult available to support the child when parents cannot be present.
At Repton, all international pupils must have an English-speaking guardian who is responsible for arrangements at the beginning and end of each term. This includes travel to and from school, tickets, passports, visas, and other practical matters.
Many parents find it helpful to consult the Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students (AEGIS), which accredits professional guardianship organisations.
5. Visit the School (In Person or Virtually)
Visiting in person is the best way to understand a school’s atmosphere. If travel is difficult, most schools offer virtual tours and participate in international admissions events.
You can explore Repton through Visit Repton, which includes in-person and online options for families overseas.
6. Find the Right School for Your Child
Choosing a school is about much more than academics. Parents should also consider:
- Academic pathways and university destinations – is the school able to offer support to their pupils beyond their school years?
- Pastoral care and support systems - Wellbeing provision is particularly important for international families, offering reassurance that pupils are supported emotionally as well as academically.
- Location – city, town, or countryside and closeness to major transport routes
- Cultural diversity and inclusivity – how are different cultures integrated across the school community?
- Co-curricular opportunities in sport, music, art, or drama –do pupils’ have access to facilities and is there a full weekend activity programme for boarders?
7. Prepare for English Language Requirements
Most UK schools require entrance assessments and may set English language tests. Non-native speakers are not disadvantaged – many schools provide excellent English as an Additional Language (EAL) support. Pupils benefit from small-group lessons, targeted tuition, and immersion in an English-speaking community. Over time, confidence in both academic and social English grows rapidly.
8. Support for International Pupils Once They Arrive
Boarding schools are designed to be a home away from home. International pupils typically have access to:
- Houseparents, Matrons, and Tutors who provide 24/7 care
- Buddy systems and peer mentors pairing new pupils with experienced boarders
- Healthcare and counselling services
- Nutritious meals, activities, and cultural celebrations
At Repton, the boarding houses give each pupil a sense of identity and this helps pupils integrate, build friendships, and be part of a supportive community. A vertical house system (with different year groups all in the same house) means that older pupils take on mentoring responsibilities for the younger pupils.
9. Financial Considerations
When planning for boarding school, families should budget for:
- Registration fees and deposit
- Tuition fees and boarding costs
- Visa charges
- Travel and guardianship arrangements
- Uniforms, activities, trips, and examination fees
- Equipment eg. laptop
10. Talk to Other Families and Ask Questions
One of the best ways to learn about a school is through conversations with current families. Many schools are happy to connect prospective parents with others who share similar backgrounds. When speaking to admissions teams, consider asking about:
- Cultural integration programmes
- Guardianship requirements for international pupils
- Travel logistics during school holidays
You can also make direct enquiries via Repton’s Admissions Enquiry Form.
Choosing a UK boarding school is a big decision, but one that brings incredible and sometimes life-changing opportunities. With careful preparation, your child will benefit from world-class education, lifelong friendships, and independence that will serve them well at university and beyond.
UK boarding schools are highly experienced in supporting international families, offering a structured and nurturing environment where pupils can thrive both academically and personally.
To begin your journey, you can learn more about Joining Repton as an International Pupil or contact our team directly through the Admissions Enquiry Form.