The Dulwich College admissions process
For over 400 years, Dulwich College has stood as one of London's most prestigious independent schools for boys.
Founded in 1619, this renowned institution continues to uphold exceptional academic standards while nurturing well-rounded young men through a rich combination of academics, sports and arts. For families considering Dulwich College, understanding the admissions process is crucial for a successful application.
Entrance exams
The entrance examination process varies depending on the entry point:
11+ Entry
For Year 7 entry, all candidates must first take the ISEB Common Pre-Test, usually in the autumn term of Year 6. This adaptive, age-standardised test covers English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. The ISEB Pre-Test can be taken at the candidate's current school or at Dulwich College. Following the Pre-Test, successful candidates are invited to sit the school's own written papers in January, which include English, maths and problem solving.
13+ Entry
Boys applying for 13+ entry also take the ISEB Common Pre-Test in Year 6 or 7. Successful candidates then sit Common Entrance examinations in Year 8, or Dulwich College's own 13+ papers if they come from schools that don't prepare for Common Entrance.
Sixth Form Entry
Sixth Form applicants sit papers in their chosen A-Level subjects, typically taking three or four examinations. The minimum requirement is:
At least six GCSEs at grade 7 or above
Grade 7 or above in subjects to be studied at A-Level
Grade 6 or above in maths and English language
The Interview process
Interviews form a crucial part of the assessment process at all entry points. The school conducts these in different formats:
11+ Interviews
Successful candidates from the written examinations are invited for an interview day in January/February. This includes:
A one-to-one interview with a senior member of staff
Group activities to assess teamwork and communication skills
A subject-based discussion
Problem-solving exercises
13+ Interviews
These typically take place in the autumn term of Year 8 and follow a similar format to 11+ interviews but with more in-depth academic discussion.
Sixth Form Interviews
Candidates have subject-specific interviews with heads of department for their chosen A-Level subjects, plus a general interview with a senior staff member.
Fees
The annual fees for Years 7-13 boarders are £24,618 per annum (£8,206 per term), with lunches included in the fees. Additional costs include educational visits, music lessons and some extracurricular activities. A non-refundable registration fee of £150 is required when submitting an application. The acceptance deposit is £2,000 for UK residents and one term's fees for overseas residents.
Key dates to know
11+ Entry
September 2025: Registration opens
October 2025: Registration deadline
November 2025: ISEB Pre-Tests
January 2026: Written examinations
January/February 2026: Interviews
February 2026: Offers made
13+ Entry
September 2025: Registration opens
October 2025: Registration deadline
November 2025: ISEB Pre-Tests (if not already taken)
January 2026: Interviews and assessments
February 2026: Offers made
June 2026: Common Entrance examinations
Sixth Form
October 2025: Registration deadline
November 2025: Entrance examinations
December 2025: Interviews
December 2025: Offers made
Admissions timeline
Registration: Submit registration form and fee
References: Current school provides confidential reference
Initial assessments: ISEB Pre-Test or school examinations
Written papers: Subject-specific examinations
Interviews: Individual and group assessments
Offer: Conditional or unconditional offer made
Acceptance: Payment of deposit to secure place
Induction: New pupil induction events
How competitive Is Dulwich College?
Dulwich College maintains highly selective admissions standards, with competition particularly fierce at the main entry points of 11+ and 13+. The school typically receives around six applications for every available place, making it one of London's more competitive independent schools. However, this shouldn't discourage prospective families – the school looks beyond pure academics to identify boys who will contribute positively to the Dulwich community.
Notable alumni
Dulwich College has produced numerous distinguished alumni across various fields. In arts and literature, notable Old Alleynians include P.G. Wodehouse, Raymond Chandler, Edward Alleyn (actor and founder) and Sir Ernest Shackleton (explorer). The sciences have been enriched by alumni such as Sir Harry Kroto (Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry) and Dr George Earle (pioneering surgeon). In public service, the school has produced leaders like Sir Edward George (former Governor of the Bank of England) and Lionel Barber (former editor of the Financial Times). The school's sporting legacy includes England rugby players Nick Easter and Andrew Sheridan.
Scholarships and Bursaries
Dulwich College offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support talented boys whose families might not otherwise be able to afford the fees. Academic scholarships are available at 11+, 13+ and 16+, worth up to 50% of fees and awarded based on exceptional performance in entrance examinations and interviews. Music scholarships are offered at all entry points, requiring Grade 5 or above in the main instrument and including free music lessons and performance opportunities. Sports scholarships at 11+, 13+ and 16+ are awarded for exceptional ability in major school sports and include specialist coaching and sports psychology support. Art scholarships, available at 16+ entry, require an outstanding portfolio and include additional studio time and materials.
The school also offers bursaries which provide means-tested financial support covering up to 100% of fees. These are assessed annually based on family circumstances, with additional support available for uniform, trips and equipment.
For families considering Dulwich College, the key to a successful application lies in thorough preparation and early planning. While the admissions process is rigorous, it is designed to identify boys who will thrive in the school's challenging yet supportive environment. The school encourages prospective families to attend open days and meet current students and staff to gain a better understanding of what makes Dulwich College special.