The Prep School

International applications

We are delighted that you are considering joining our vibrant and supportive community. Below, you'll find everything you need to start your application journey as an international pupil.

Pupils represent over 50 countries
A global family

A diverse community

At Clifton College around 35% of pupils come from beyond the UK. Pupils represent over 50 countries globally which creates a wonderfully diverse community with no single country dominating the figures.

For example, just within Asia we have pupils from China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and more.

In the Prep School our European boarders come from all over Europe - Spain, Germany, France, Belgium, Italy - and are an extremely important part of our boarding family.

Three people sitting on beds in a cozy room, smiling and chatting. One holds a stuffed toy. The room has two large windows and decorative items.

A British boarding school

There are many UK schools that are classed as international, but a great attraction of Clifton College is that international pupils join a quintessentially British Boarding School with traditional core values, whilst continuing to celebrate their own unique traditions.

We welcome enquiries from international families, either directly or through one of the many agencies we work with.

All international pupils must possess a high standard of English, as they will be learning alongside their British school friends.

Guiding you through the journey

Getting started

Explore the academic programmes
Arrange a personal tour or come to one of our Open Events. We also offer video calls if you are unable to visit the UK.
Register interest for your child
Complete the online registration process to register your child for entry to Clifton College. You will be asked to provide a copy of the pupil's passport and birth certificate.
School visit
We encourage prospective international Prep pupils to come to the school for a taster day to understand the school, make friends and meet with key teachers. This is also an opportunity for parents or guardians to tour the school.
Pupil assessments
Pupils applying for a place in Year 7, who are residents overseas will be asked to sit the CAT4 assessment and undergo a virtual meeting with our Director of Admissions if unable to visit in person.

Offers and next steps

Accept your place
If your child is successful a formal written offer letter will be sent to you by our Admissions team.
Visa process
Our Visa Compliance Officer will email parents introducing our legal partner, Fragomen LLP, and explain the process for obtaining a Child Student Visa.
What next?
Once the Child Student Visa is approved, the pupil is able to travel to the UK to study at Clifton College. Our admissions team will confirm the start date.
Regular Communication
The admissions and academic team will be in regular contact to ensure a smooth and welcoming start.
Welcome to Clifton College!
Attend new pupils welcome events.
A smiling student in a school uniform plays pool, surrounded by peers in a bright room.

Come and see for yourself

We host a range of events throughout the year to help families experience life at Clifton College Prep School. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Open events

Experience Clifton College firsthand with a guided tour, meet key staff, explore our top-tier facilities, and get a real feel for student life.

Personal tour

Book a personalised tour with one of our staff members to explore the School and ask any questions specific to your child’s needs.

Video calls

We’d be happy to arrange a video call so you can learn more about Clifton College and have your questions answered from wherever you are.

Join the Prep School

Where next?

Quick links

Our community

Discover our supportive community for children, teachers, and families.

Who we are

Find out more about our Prep School, where two days are never the same.

A day in the life

Gain an insight into a day in the life of our busy Prep School.

Our spaces

Explore our inspiring classrooms and outdoor spaces for young learners.