Eton College, Windsor
With an outstanding alumni of Royal Family and UK Prime Ministers it’s no wonder Eton College is one of the most competitive schools to attend. This elite all boys school has an acceptance rate of under 25%.
Benenden School, Kent
As the only all girls boarding school in the UK, Benenden School also has a Royal Family alumni, with Princess Anne as one of their former pupils. With a 4 year waiting list, it’s best to know in advance if you are wanting your children to attend here.
Winchester College, Winchester
Winchester College is an all boys school was founded in 1382, making it one of the oldest schools in England. They do not use Common Entrance admissions and instead applications are taken as an exam in Year 8 or via an interview in Year 6.
https://www.winchestercollege.org
City of London School, London
Situated in the heart of London, this school has extremely competitive admissions with over ten applicants for every place in Year 6.
https://www.cityoflondonschool.org.uk
Ampleforth Abbey and College, Yorkshire
Ampleforth College is a mixed school and is the only Catholic full-boarding school in the UK, but the school welcomes all religions.
Cheltenham Ladies' College, Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Ladies’ College is one of the most elite all girls school in the UK, showing an outstanding academic record and a great Arts School. Places are always sought after, with even stronger competition for Sixth Form places.
https://www.cheltladiescollege.org
Gordonstoun School, Elgin
Gordonstoun is located in the north of Scotland and was originally owned by Sir Robert Gordon in the 17th century. No open days are offered and instead a private viewing would need to be arranged.
Fettes College, Edinburgh
Fettes College is located in the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, and has one of the most picturesque buildings and campus in the UK.
Westminster School, London
Situated in central London between Parliament and Westminster Cathedral, no wonder there is a high demand of admissions. The competition for a place at this school is high, so t’s recommended to register for the Year 6 ‘pre-test’ 3 years in advance for students hoping to begin in Year 9.
https://www.westminster.org.uk
Harrow School, London
Harrow is an all boys school in London, founded in 1572 and often know for it’s competitive school rivalry with Eton College. This institution is one of the world’s most renowned schools and has an outstanding academic excellence.
Hardest Schools to Get into in the UK
Alumni, high academic excellence or the outstanding campus and activities on offer are often reasons that make certain high schools much harder to get into. Here are some of the most competitive schools in the UK.
