About the school
Downside School says it admits boys and girls, with normal admission points at 11+ into the First Form (Year 7), 13+ into the Third Form (Year 9), and 16+ into the Lower Sixth (Year 12). For Year 7, applicants are invited to an Assessment and Taster Day including an online CAT assessment, and the Head meets each pupil during the day.
| School type | Independent (fee-paying) · Co-educational |
|---|---|
| Age range | 11-18 |
| Sixth form | Yes |
📅 Open days: The school invites families to visit for either an Open Morning or an on-site or virtual visit.
Entrance exam
| Exam board / format | Bespoke test |
|---|---|
| Delivery | Computer-based |
📄 Free Downside School practice papers (PDF)
Admissions & catchment
| Catchment | Open to all — no catchment requirement |
|---|
Key dates
| Registration opens | To be confirmed |
|---|---|
| Registration deadline | To be confirmed |
| Typical exam date | To be confirmed |
For Year 7 entry, registration is required at least 8 to 12 months ahead of the start date. Pupils are invited to an Assessment and Taster Day in January while they are in Year 6; the CAT assessment and interview can also be done on the initial visit or a follow-up visit.
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