Guide for International Pupils

Founded in 1525, Sedbergh School is renowned for its academic, sport and music excellence, offering a blend of tradition and innovation that sets us apart and makes us the leading full boarding school in the north of England.

In April 2025, Sedbergh School was named ‘European School of the Year’ at the prestigious Study Travel awards in London. The award builds on a series of recent achievements for the School, including a nomination for an Education Investor award in March 2025, the Boarding Schools Association’s ‘Supporting International Boarders’ Award and being named a World Leading Boarding School by Fortune in 2023.

At Sedbergh, we’re more than just a school – we’re a community dedicated to nurturing the minds and spirits of our pupils. With a curriculum designed to inspire curiosity and foster critical thinking, we empower learners to excel academically and beyond. From our brand-new Year 9 program, 9 Inspire, to tailored pre-A-level courses, GCSEs, A-levels and BTECs, we offer a pathway to success for every individual.

With in-house dining, 98% full boarders, and a diverse pupil body, our campus becomes a home away from home. Situated in a safe location with easy access to amenities, including shops, cafes, and a supermarket, Sedbergh provides a nurturing environment for personal and academic growth. Located within easy reach of major airports and with excellent connectivity to London and beyond, Sedbergh provides the perfect setting for learning and exploration.

Admissions Process

Sedbergh is a non-selective school and our pupils have a wide range of academic abilities. The admissions process is designed to identify pupils who will benefit from our balanced and well-rounded education and make a positive contribution towards School life.

Applications from overseas pupils who require additional support for English are welcome. English proficiency is assessed at application and needs to be to a level that the School considers appropriate to be successful both academically and socially.

The process of application is:

Complete and submit the Registration Form and pay the registration fee.
We will invite your son or daughter to attend an informal interview, either in person or via video call, with the Headmaster or other senior staff member.
Your child will be asked to complete online tests in English (1.5 hours) and Maths (1 hour). Tests may be completed at home but must be done under examination conditions. The tests can be set either before or following a school visit/video call, at the parent’s preference.
If accepted an offer of a place will be made. The offer may be conditional – subject to taking EAL lessons, or completing a pre-sessional course in English language.

Personal visits are strongly encouraged and will be tailored to your requirements and interest. Visits can normally be arranged most weekdays during term time. A visit typically takes three hours and will include meetings with the Headmaster, the International Registrar, a Housemaster or Housemistress plus lunch in the House with staff and pupils, and a tour of the School with a current pupil.

“You can’t imagine how happy she [Lucas’s mother] is with everything: the houseparent, the teachers, the parent portal, sports, and more. Lucas has changed remarkably in less than a month; he’s now a motivated and happy boy who truly enjoys attending school.” Agent

Enrolment requirements

Guardians

All pupils whose parents live outside the UK are required to appoint an Educational Guardian living in the UK. This can be a family member, a friend or we can send a list of accredited guardianship agencies.

Visas

Once an offer has been accepted and all conditions met, the School will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) which will enables your son or daughter to apply for a Child Student Visa. For more information about visas please see Child Student visa: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Questions?

For any further information please contact:

Christine Ritchie, International Registrar
cir@sedberghschool.org
+44 15242 79209