A Parent’s Guide to Admission Terms and What They Mean

Navigating the school admissions process can feel like learning an entirely new language. Whether you’re considering grammar schools, independent schools, or selective academies, understanding the terminology can help you make informed and confident decisions about your child’s education.

This guide explains the most common admissions terms so you won’t feel lost when application time arrives.

What Is the Admissions Process?

The admissions process refers to the steps you need to take to secure a place for your child at a particular school. Depending on the type of school, this process may involve entrance exams, interviews, registration deadlines, and submitting supporting documents.

Some initial key terms:

• Admissions criteria – The rules schools use to decide which children are offered a place.
• Application deadline – The final date for submitting your child’s school application.
• Offer day – The date when you find out whether your child has been offered a place at your chosen school.

Common Admission Terms

Catchment Area

This is the geographical area around a school. Living within it may increase your child’s chances of gaining admission. Not all schools use catchment areas—many grammar and independent schools do not.

Oversubscribed

A school is said to be oversubscribed when more pupils apply than there are places available. Admissions criteria are then used to allocate places.

Selective School

These schools admit pupils based on academic ability, typically assessed through an entrance examination. Examples are grammar schools and some independent schools.

Non-Selective School

Also known as comprehensive schools, these admit pupils regardless of academic performance.

11 Plus (11+) Exam

An entrance examination used by grammar schools to select pupils. It usually covers English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Common Entrance Exam

Typically used by independent schools, taken at age 11 or 13. It assesses various subjects and is often preceded by a pre-assessment.

Priority Admissions Terms

Sibling Policy

Many schools give priority to children who already have a sibling attending the school.

Feeder School

A primary school whose pupils are given priority when applying to a particular secondary school.

Looked After Children

Children in the care of the local authority are often given top priority in school admissions, as per national guidelines.

Terms Specific to Independent and Grammar Schools

Registration Fee

A non-refundable fee paid when registering your child’s interest in an independent school.

Assessment Day

A full-day evaluation where a child’s academic, social, and sometimes physical skills are assessed. Often used by independent schools.

Deferred Entry

This allows a child to delay starting Reception until later in the academic year.

Waiting List

If your child is not initially offered a place, they may be added to a waiting list. Places may become available if other families decline offers.

Terms in Appeals and Offers

Appeals Process

Parents have the right to appeal if their child is not offered a school place. The process varies depending on the type of school and local authority.

Conditional Offer

An offer of a school place that depends on your child meeting specific conditions—usually academic results.

Tips for Parents Navigating Admissions

Start Early

One of the most important things parents can do is start the admissions process early. Many schools begin accepting applications up to a year in advance, and missing deadlines can significantly reduce your chances of securing a place.

Planning ahead gives you time to gather necessary documents, prepare your child for entrance exams if applicable, and carefully consider your options.

Visit Schools

Attending school open days is a valuable way to get a real sense of the school’s environment, ethos, and facilities.

These visits allow you to meet teachers, speak with current pupils, and ask questions about the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and pastoral support. They also help you and your child determine whether a school feels like the right fit.

Understand Each School’s Process

Admissions procedures can differ considerably between school types—state, grammar, and independent schools all have their own requirements and timelines. Some may rely on entrance tests or interviews, while others prioritise catchment areas or sibling attendance.

Make sure you understand exactly what each school requires so you don’t miss any crucial steps.

Prepare for Exams

If you’re applying to a selective school, it’s important to support your child in preparing for entrance exams such as the 11 Plus or Common Entrance.

Revision guides, online practice papers, and tutoring can all help build your child’s confidence and improve their chances of success. Starting preparation early ensures they’re not overwhelmed as the exam approaches.

Read Admissions Policies Carefully

Every school publishes its own admissions policy, which outlines how decisions are made. These documents may include specific details on oversubscription criteria, tie-breaker rules, and how priority is given.

Reading them thoroughly will help you understand what factors are most important for each school and whether your child meets the necessary criteria.

Final Thoughts

Once you’re familiar with the terminology, the school admissions process becomes much more manageable. Whether your goal is to enrol your child in a grammar, independent, or comprehensive school, understanding these key terms will help you prepare thoroughly and advocate effectively for your child.

Need guidance on specific school policies or preparation for entrance exams? Speak to your local authority or consult the school’s website for detailed information.