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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
Clifton College is home to a truly international community, with around 35% of pupils joining us from outside the UK. More than 50 countries are represented across the College, creating a rich and balanced global environment with no single nationality dominating.
A British boarding school
Clifton College offers something unique: international pupils join a quintessentially British boarding school rooted in traditional core values, while being encouraged to celebrate and share their own cultural identities. This blend of heritage and diversity creates a warm, inclusive environment where pupils from around the world feel at home.
We welcome enquiries from international families, whether made directly or through one of the many trusted educational agencies we work with.
To ensure pupils can fully access the curriculum and thrive alongside their British peers, all international applicants are expected to have a high standard of English before joining the College.
Why Bristol?
Clifton College is located in the historic city of Bristol, in the South West of England - a large, vibrant and culturally rich city with excellent road, rail and air links to both national and international destinations. It is an ideal base for pupils arriving from overseas, offering convenience, safety and plenty to explore.
The College sits at the heart of Clifton, a lively and picturesque neighbourhood known for its independent shops, cafes, restaurants and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. With so much on our doorstep, boarders can enjoy discovering their new surroundings, all within easy walking distance of their home at Clifton College.
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
International pupils
Clifton College is the perfect setting for international families looking for a British Boarding School. The strong sense of community means pupils feel part of a big family whilst away from home.
Our community
Discover our supportive community for pupils, parents and staff alike.
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 spaces
Our distinctive, historic buildings provide an inspirational backdrop for learning, along with modern facilities and a state-of-the-art Sports Complex.