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Admission to Eton at age 16 is possible for a small number of candidates, either through the Orwell Award (for boys in UK state schools) or Sixth Form entry (fee-paying). Applicants should be of a high academic standard (ideally gaining a minimum of six GCSEs at Grade 7 or overseas equivalent) who are also likely to make a notable contribution to school life in sport or in the arts.

Life at Eton

Entry for both of these routes opens in the summer before a boy starts UK School Year 11, with applications from mid-July. The application deadline is usually in mid-September when a boy is in UK School Year 11. Please see the application form for each year’s specific dates.

It was the making of him and I didn’t lose my son – rather, I gained a young man who grew in confidence and independence and was well prepared to make the transition to university that parents often worry about.

Parent of an Orwell Award recipient

All applications received will be considered and we will then shortlist boys to be invited to Eton for an assessment in November or December.

Registration for Fee-Paying Places

Boys who are studying at a UK independent school, state school, or overseas school may apply for Sixth Form Entry.

Any available places will be offered to boys of a high academic standard who are also likely to make a notable contribution to school life in sport or in the arts. The minimum qualifying standard is six GCSEs (or overseas equivalent) at grade 7, but in practical terms the level is likely to be significantly higher and competition for the limited number of places is intense. Please note that there is no bursary support available for boys applying via this route.

Applications for entry to the Sixth Form for entry in September 2024 are now closed.

What is the Orwell Award?