How to Get Into Harrow School?
Harrow School is one of the most prestigious boys’ boarding schools in the UK, renowned for its academic excellence, historic traditions, and emphasis on leadership and character. Founded in 1572, Harrow has educated generations of leaders, including prime ministers, statesmen, and innovators. Families choose Harrow not only for its world-class education but also for its ability to shape boys into confident, responsible, and well-rounded young men prepared for success at top universities and beyond.
Academic Excellence
Harrow combines rigorous academics with a broad curriculum designed to inspire intellectual curiosity and independence. With outstanding GCSE and A Level results, Harrovians regularly progress to Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group, and Ivy League universities. Small class sizes, subject-specialist teachers, and a strong tutorial system ensure every boy receives personalised academic support and challenge.
Character, Tradition, and Opportunities
Harrow places strong emphasis on leadership, resilience, and community. The school’s unique house system fosters a sense of belonging and encourages responsibility, teamwork, and mentorship among boys of different ages. Beyond the classroom, Harrow offers a wealth of extracurricular opportunities: music, drama, debating, sports, and over 50 clubs and societies. Its world-class facilities — from cricket pitches and recording studios to theatres and modern laboratories — support every talent. The Harrovian ethos ensures that students leave not just academically accomplished but also equipped with the character, values, and confidence to make a difference in the world.
Registration: Parents usually register by Year 5 for 13+ entry.
Pre-Assessment (ISEB Pre-Test): Taken in Year 6 or 7, covering English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Interviews & House Assessments: Candidates attend interviews, group activities, and assessments that evaluate curiosity, communication, and character.
Conditional Offers: Based on pre-test and interview performance, conditional offers are made in Year 6.
Common Entrance or Harrow Test: Final confirmation depends on performance in the Common Entrance exams or Harrow’s own tests at 13+.
16+ Entry: Requires strong GCSE grades or international equivalents, competitive subject tests, and interviews.
Acceptance Rate: Around 20–25% of applicants are offered places at 13+. For 16+, the rate is closer to 10–12%, reflecting intense competition.
Tuition Fees: Approximately £47,000–£49,000 per year for boarding (2024–25).
Scholarships & Bursaries: Harrow offers scholarships for academic achievement, music, art, and sport. Up to 15% of boys benefit from bursarial support, ensuring access for talented pupils regardless of financial background.
Top Schools in UK
- Eton
- Harrow
- Westminster
- St Paul's
- Cheltenham
How Elite British Admissions Helps
Our team provides personalised guidance for every stage of the Harrow admissions process:
- Targeted preparation for ISEB Pre-Test, Common Entrance, and Harrow’s own exams
- Mock interviews and communication training focused on Harrow’s ethos
- Bespoke academic roadmaps designed to match each student’s strengths and goals
- Support for international families with time-zone–friendly tutoring and guidance
In 2024, more than 70% of our Harrow applicants secured offers, with many going on to thrive both academically and socially at the school.
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