Most pupils join us at 11+ (Year 7), 13+ (Year 9) or 16+ (Sixth Form). We occasionally have places available in other year groups, so if you are interested in a different entry point, do get in touch with our Admissions Team, we would be happy to advise. 

For younger children, we recommend our partner junior schools: 

Where many pupils begin their RGS journey. 

There is no rush to apply years in advance. Most families apply during the autumn term of the year before entry. Visit our Open Events page to register your interest or book a tour as the perfect first step. 

Yes, there is a non-refundable registration fee: 

  • £180 for UK applications 
  • £240 for overseas or late/supplementary applications 

This covers the administration of your child’s application and assessments. 

Yes. All applicants who do not currently attend one of our junior schools will sit an entrance assessment. This includes exams in English, Maths and Reasoning.

Yes, please. Once we receive your application, we will contact your child’s current school for a confidential reference. It is important they are aware of your application in advance.

Around 50% of our Year 7 intake comes from local state primary schools and the other half from our junior prep schools. RGS is a community made stronger by its diversity of backgrounds and experiences. 

There is no right or wrong answer, it depends on your child and your family. Most pupils join at 11+ (Year 7), while others choose to join at 13+ (Year 9). Some join at Sixth Form for a fresh start before university. 

Every applicant is assessed on their potential and character, regardless of age or background. 

RGS is a co-educational school. Places are awarded based on ability and potential, not gender, but the student body is typically a balanced 50/50 split between boys and girls. 

Academic scholarships are awarded automatically, based on entrance exam performance so no separate form is required. 

If your child is applying for a Music, Sport, or Headmaster’s Scholarship (which includes disciplines like Art, Drama, Performing Arts, Dance, Golf or Chess), you will need to complete a separate scholarship form. More information is provided once you register for the entrance process. 

  • A Scholarship recognises exceptional talent or potential - academic, musical, sporting or creative. Most scholarships offer enrichment opportunities and may include a small fee reduction (often up to £1,000 per year), but not always. 
  • A Bursary is means-tested fee assistance. It is designed to enable bright children to join RGS regardless of financial background. Bursaries can offer up to 100% fee remission, and may also cover costs like uniform, travel or meals in cases of particular need. 
  • Partial fee assistance is also available. Through our RGS Support Fund, families who may not qualify for a full bursary but for whom independent school fees may still be a stretch, especially in light of VAT on fees, may be eligible for a more modest level of support. 

Families can apply for both a scholarship and a bursary, the two awards can be held together (up to a total of 100% fee remission). 

You can find out more on our Bursaries and Fee Assistance page.