International applications

We welcome families from all over the world. Pupils gain from the rich experiences offered by a traditional English education, and in return, we are enriched by the unique qualities they contribute. International pupils play a vital role in maintaining our school's diversity and talent pool, mirroring the global society of today.

Guardians

For our international boys, it is necessary to have a close relative or legal guardian residing in the UK that Pilgrims' can reach out to in the event of an emergency. The obligation rests on the parents to make sure this arrangement is secured.

All boys joining the school must be appropriately fluent in both written and spoken English. Our teaching is fast-paced and conducted in English (with the exception of French), with a strong emphasis on written work. Older candidates may be required to sit a Cat 4 Test and submit samples of work before being invited for an assessment. We may suggest a Zoom interview, but candidates will still be required to attend a taster day with further assessments at the school, at which point they may meet with our EAL specialist.

Pupils requiring a student visa

For pupils starting at Pilgrims' from September 2025 onwards, there is an initial Child Student Visa charge of £1200 including VAT payable upon acceptance, and thereafter, for each Child Student Visa application during your time at the school £600 including VAT. This charge covers the additional costs to the school of supporting those pupils, including Visa applications, administration, monitoring and reporting requirements. The school must adhere to these compliance standards as set out by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as a condition of its continued ability to support student visa applications.

We are able to support a limited number of Child Student visa applications for boys joining Boarding in Year 4 and above only. Please note that we do not sponsor Child Student visas for day boys.

Acceptance of place deposit

If your child requires a Child Student visa or your primary residence is situated outside the UK, your acceptance of place deposit will be one term's fee.

The School normally gives one term’s notice of fee increases but reserves the right to increase fees at shorter notice in exceptional circumstances.