The Sevenoaks School admissions process
Established in 1432, Sevenoaks School is one of the UK's oldest and most prestigious independent schools.
Known for its commitment to academic excellence and a holistic approach to education, the school offers a diverse and inclusive environment for students aged 11 to 18. With a strong emphasis on the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, Sevenoaks prepares its pupils for success in both higher education and life beyond.
Entrance exams
Admission to Sevenoaks School is competitive and tailored to the applicant’s entry point: 11+, 13+ or 16+. Each age group has specific assessments designed to evaluate a student’s academic aptitude, potential and enthusiasm for learning. Here’s an overview:
11+ Entry (day pupils only)
The 11+ is the main entry point for day pupils, with a limited number of places available. Applicants sit entrance tests in English, maths and verbal reasoning. The school also requires candidates to take the ISEB Common Pre-Test, which assesses English, maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. These assessments ensure that candidates are evaluated across a broad range of skills, including problem-solving and comprehension. Additionally, students are asked to complete a short written task to demonstrate their creative writing ability.
13+ Entry
Admission for 13+ can be made via two routes: Early Decision or Later Decision.
Early Decision: This process begins in Year 6. Applicants take the ISEB Common Pre-Test, which is an online assessment covering English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Successful candidates are then invited to Sevenoaks for further assessments, including written tests in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities.
Later Decision: This process begins in Year 7, two years before the intended start date. The assessment includes the ISEB Common Pre-Test, followed by written exams in key subjects and a group interview. The school looks for candidates with strong academic potential, critical thinking skills and a passion for learning.
16+ Entry
The 16+ is a key entry point for both day and boarding pupils, with applicants joining from schools in the UK and internationally. Candidates sit entrance tests in subjects they plan to study at the IB Higher Level, in addition to general tests in English and maths. Applicants intending to take Higher Level Mathematics must also complete an additional maths extension paper. Following the tests, all candidates participate in a group discussion led by Sevenoaks teachers, which assesses their ability to think critically, engage collaboratively and communicate effectively.
Interviews
All candidates are required to attend an interview or group discussion as part of the admissions process.
11+ Candidates: Typically meet with a member of the admissions team for an individual interview to discuss their interests, experiences and aspirations.
13+ and 16+ Candidates: Take part in a group discussion led by Sevenoaks staff, focusing on their critical thinking, creativity and enthusiasm for learning.
For international applicants, interviews and group discussions can be conducted online.
Fees
For the academic year 2024-2025, the annual fees at Sevenoaks School are as follows:
Day pupils: £30,432 per annum
Boarding pupils: £42,936 per annum
Key dates to know
11+ Entry
Registration deadline: 1 August, the year prior to entry
Entrance tests and ISEB Common Pre-Test: Scheduled in November
13+ Entry
Early Decision registration deadline: 15 September, three years prior to entry (start of Year 6)
ISEB Pre-Test for Early Decision: Administered in the autumn term of Year 6
Later Decision registration deadline: 1 November, two years prior to entry (start of Year 7)
ISEB Pre-Test for Later Decision: Taken in the autumn term of Year 7
16+ Entry
Registration deadline: 1 August, the year prior to entry
Entrance tests: Scheduled in October
Admissions timeline
Visit the school: Attend an Open Morning, Group Visit or virtual event to experience life at Sevenoaks School. These events include tours of the campus and boarding houses (if applicable).
Application submission: Complete the online application form and pay the registration fee (£420 for boarding applicants or £240 for day applicants).
Assessments and interviews: Participate in entrance exams, the ISEB Common Pre-Test (where relevant) and interviews or group discussions.
Offer of place: Successful candidates receive offers shortly after the assessment period. Reserve lists are created for some candidates, and places may be offered later.
Acceptance: Accept the offer by completing the Form of Acceptance and paying the deposit (£2,000 for day pupils or £5,000 for boarding pupils) by the deadline specified in the offer letter.
How competitive is it?
Sevenoaks School is one of the most competitive independent schools in the UK. The use of the ISEB Common Pre-Test for 11+ and 13+ entry ensures that applicants are assessed on their aptitude and ability in a rigorous and fair manner. With its reputation for academic excellence and global outlook, Sevenoaks attracts a high number of applications each year. Prospective students should demonstrate strong academic performance, active participation in extracurricular activities and a passion for learning.
Notable alumni
Sevenoaks School has an illustrious list of alumni, including:
Sir Martin Sorrell: Founder of WPP, the world's largest advertising and PR group
Crispin Blunt: Member of Parliament and former Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Prisons and Youth Justice
Clare Balding: Renowned broadcaster, journalist and author
Matthew Pinsent: Four-time Olympic gold medallist in rowing
Daniel Day-Lewis: Academy Award-winning actor
Scholarships and bursaries
Sevenoaks School offers scholarships to recognise excellence in academia, music, sports, drama and art. Scholarships are awarded based on performance in entrance assessments, the ISEB Common Pre-Test (where applicable) and school references. Bursaries are also available to support families who may not be able to meet the full cost of fees. These awards are means-tested and tailored to each family's financial circumstances.