Applying for primary school

Applying for a place at a state primary school is straightforward and can be done quickly and easily online.

When do I need to apply? 

To start the process, visit your local authority website if you live in England or Wales, or www.eani.org.uk if you live in Northern Ireland. This will give you access to all the relevant information. 

To register your child at an independent or preparatory school, contact that school directly. 

When do I need to apply?

Most children start school in the September after their fourth birthday, but you need to start thinking about the application process around 12 months earlier. This table gives you an overview of each nation, but it can vary so do contact your local authority.

Applications open

Applications close

England

November

January

Wales

November

January

Northern Ireland

January

January

Can I apply to any school? 

In theory, you can apply for any state school in your local authority or council’s catchment area. But before applying, look at the school’s admission criteria because it’s unlikely your child will be offered a place at a school unless you meet at least one of them. Details can be found on the school website and they usually include factors such as the distance from the school, siblings already at the school and the number of places available. 

In England, if you live close to a boundary, or if you prefer a particular school for its specialism, it is possible to apply for a place out of the area. Take a look at the relevant county council’s website for more information.

Are all state schools the same? 

No, although most teach the same National Curriculum or Northern Ireland Curriculum. You can find out more about the different types of state schools in our About Schools section.

How many schools should I apply to? 

Follow the guidance for your region. Applying to only one school won’t mean you are more likely to get that choice — exactly the opposite in fact. It could result in you ending up with somewhere you’d never even considered.

Region

How many schools should I apply to?

England

Three schools, in order of preference

Wales

See local guidance but usually a shortlist of three is ideal

Northern Ireland

At least four and up to six schools, in order of preference


Why should I put my schools in order of preference? 

The schools don’t know where they appear on your list, only that you have applied to them. Your application will be scored against the entry criteria of each school you apply to and if you meet the criteria for more than one school, you’ll be offered a place at the one that appears highest on your list.

What if my child is summer born? 

England and Wales 

Although most children start school in the September after their fourth birthday, if your child was born between 1st April and 31st August, they can start school in the September after they turn five. 

If you are considering delaying their start you must still follow the timetable for school applications as you would if your child was starting in the September after their fourth birthday.

See this Government guidance for more information and support.

Northern Ireland

Most children who have reached the age of four on or before 1st July start school in the September of that year. However, if your child was (or was due to be) born on or after 1st April, they can start in the following September. 

Apply for the year your child will actually be starting school, not the year they turn four. 

See this Education Authority NI guidance for more information. 

Can I apply for a place at a different school part way through the year? 

This will depend on your local authority’s procedures. You can find your local council here.