Joining in Year 9 (13+)

We know that seeing the school is an important part of knowing whether Winchester is right for your child. Come and visit us at one of our Open Events held throughout the year.

We encourage registrations before the deadline of 1st October of Year 6. If you’ve missed that deadline, please do still get in touch, or register via the Registrar’s Route.

If your son is in a school that finishes in Year 6, you can register for the 11+ route. This supports entry into The Pilgrims’ School in Year 7 with onward progression to Winchester College in Year 9.

If you are interested in applying for financial support, please tick the box on the registration form and we will get in touch with you.

Good assessment should be accessible, challenging and aligned with curriculum. It shouldn’t be stressful or require additional tutoring.

That’s why we use a combination of school references, General Ability Testing (GAT), a writing assessment and interview to understand whether your child will thrive in our school.

At interview we look for personal qualities as much as academic potential; curiosity, kindness, integrity, resilience and a willingness to contribute to the life of a house.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with a member of the Pastoral Care team. This is usually a Housemaster or a member of the Senior Management Team.

Decisions, including bursary provision will be released in March of Year 6.

Boarding house placement and taster events take place in Year 7 to get your family ready to join our community.

In the Spring of Year 8:

Boys will sit Winchester Entrance. Entry to Winchester College is not dependent on the results of these examinations. Entrance is an indicator of academic progress and support teachers in ensuring a smooth transition into a Year 9 academic programme.

Boys seeking challenge are encouraged to apply for Election, which is the route for Academic Scholars. Those sitting Election are also eligible for our new Founder’s Scholarships and a place in College.

Assessment for Music and Sport Awards also take place in Year 8.