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The Upper 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 countriesA 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.
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.
Why Bristol?
Clifton College is located in Bristol in the South West of England. A large city, it has excellent road, rail and air links to national and international destinations.
The College itself sits at the heart of the bustling local community of Clifton. Home to independent shops, cafes, restaurants and the world famous Clifton Suspension Bridge. This is a perfect location for boarders to explore the wonderful surroundings within in walking distance to their new home.
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 your interest
Complete the online registration process to register 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 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.
Year 9-11 pupil assessments
Pupils applying for a place in Years 9, 10 and 11 who are resident overseas will be asked to sit the CAT4 assessment and undergo a virtual meeting with our Director of Admissions. All other aspects of the Admissions process remain the same.
Sixth Form pupil assessments
Entry to the Sixth Form is assessed in two of the four subjects to be taken at A Level plus an English Language paper. School references are very important to us in the Admissions process. All candidates will be interviewed as part of the entry process.
Offers and next steps
Accept your place
If your place 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 pupil welcome events.
A home away from home
Boarding at Clifton
Discover more
Boarding at Clifton
Come and see for yourself
We host a range of events throughout the year to help pupils and families experience life at Clifton College Upper 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 Upper School
Where next?
Quick links
Who we are
We aim to develop open-minded young people with a real understanding of the world around them, fully prepared for their future in a rapidly changing modern world.
Our community
Discover our supportive community for pupils, parents and staff alike.
A day in the life
Gain an insight into a day in the life of our dynamic Upper School.
Our spaces
Our distinctive, historic buildings provide an inspirational backdrop for learning, along with modern facilities and a state-of-the-art Sports Complex.