Starting secondary school

Secondary school applications

If you have a child born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015, you must apply for your child to start secondary school in September 2026.

The deadline for on-time applications was Friday 31 October 2025.


Before you apply 


How to apply

To give your child the best possible chance of being offered their preferred school place, ensure your application is received on time. 

The closing date for on-time applications was Friday 31 October 2025.

You can still submit a late application online until mid-August 2026. However your application will not be processed until after Monday 2 March 2026 (national offer day).

Apply for a secondary school place

Please note:

Proof of address

Before applying for a school place, check which documents you need to provide as proof of address for you and your child.

Read guidance

Applying to grammar schools

Find advice and support about the grammar school process on our dedicated information page.

View guidance

Parental disputes

Learn what to do if you and another person with parental responsibility disagree about a school application.

Find out more

Families arriving from abroad

Most children arriving from overseas, including EU countries, are eligible to attend school in England. Parents should check their child’s visa conditions before applying.

Learn more

Secondary school statistics

See performance details and other helpful information.

View statistics