International Applicants
Senior Academic Classroom

Why is Cranleigh right for international families?

Cranleigh School is a co-educational independent boarding school in Surrey, UK bringing pupils from around the world to live, learn and grow together. International pupils enjoy a future-focused education with academic rigour, outstanding pastoral care and a vibrant boarding community where friendships span cultures and continents. With dedicated support from their very first day, pupils quickly settle into school life, develop confidence and make the most of every opportunity available to them.

DSC9298

How do I apply to Cranleigh from overseas?

Our International Admissions team will guide you through every stage of the application process. They can explain the different entry points, help you understand how your child's current school system aligns with the UK system and advise on assessments, interviews, guardianship and visa requirements. Pupils can apply for full, weekly or day boarding, depending on what best suits their family's needs.

Contact Admissions
DSC9348

Can my child apply if they do not currently study the UK curriculum?

Yes. Many Cranleigh pupils join from international schools and education systems around the world. Our Admissions team will help identify the most appropriate year group and guide families through the admissions process, regardless of their current curriculum.

UK System Explained

Who are Cranleigh's international students?

Cranleigh international students come from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. They bring a rich diversity of cultures, languages and perspectives, creating a genuinely international community. International pupils learn and live alongside UK pupils, allowing them to experience British boarding school life while benefiting from a global outlook.

How do international pupils settle into life at Cranleigh?

From the moment they arrive, Cranleigh international students are supported by House staff, tutors, teachers and fellow pupils. Induction activities, House events and the boarding community help new pupils quickly build friendships, establish routines and feel at home. Many pupils tell us that their House becomes their second family during their time at school.

What is boarding life like for international pupils?

Cranleigh international students live, eat, study and take part in activities alongside UK pupils, creating a strong sense of community and belonging. Boarding Houses provide a welcoming home-from-home environment where pupils are supported academically, socially and personally.

Weekends offer a varied programme of sport, activities, trips and social events, giving pupils opportunities to spend time with friends, explore the local area and enjoy all aspects of boarding life. Set within a beautiful 280-acre Surrey Hills campus, Cranleigh provides space to learn, relax and thrive.

Senior Girls Boarding Summer 2026 8

Who looks after my child while boarding?

Each pupil belongs to a boarding House where dedicated House staff provide day-to-day pastoral care, guidance and support. Tutors, teachers, medical staff and wellbeing teams work closely together to ensure every pupil feels safe, supported and able to flourish throughout their time at Cranleigh.

Prep Boarding Summer 2026 3

Do you provide airport transfers?

The Admissions team can advise families on travel arrangements and airport transfer options available to international pupils at the start and end of term.

What happens during holidays and exeat weekends?

Exeat weekends provide an opportunity for boarders to spend time with family or guardians. International pupils are welcome to remain at school during exeat weekends, where a programme of activities and events is provided.

The Admissions team can also advise families on arrangements during longer school holidays and term breaks.

Can I speak to a current Cranleigh international parent?

Yes. Many families find it helpful to hear directly from parents whose children already attend Cranleigh. You can request a conversation through our Speak to a Current Parent programme by contacting our Admissions team.

You can contact our Admissions team by following the link below, or by emailing them at Admissions@cranleigh.org

Contact the Admissions team

Frequently Asked Questions from International Families

Do you work with agents?

Yes. We work with established education partners around the world who help families explore UK boarding education and identify the right school for their child. Families are also welcome to apply directly. Learn more on our Partnerships & Agents page.

Partnerships & Agents

Is there an English language entry requirement?

Yes. Applicants are expected to demonstrate age-appropriate English proficiency. The Admissions team will advise on any English language assessments required as part of the admissions process.

Is there EAL (English as an Additional Language) support?

Yes. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available and forms part of the school timetable where appropriate, helping pupils develop confidence and succeed academically.

Are guardians required?

Yes. International boarders are required to have a UK-based guardian through an approved guardianship provider. The Admissions team can provide further guidance on current requirements.

How are visas handled?

Cranleigh can support eligible pupils requiring a UK Child Student visa and will provide the necessary Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) documentation. The Admissions team will guide families through the process and direct them to the latest visa guidance.

Where do Cranleigh pupils go after Sixth Form?

Cranleigh pupils progress to leading universities in the UK and around the world. Through academic study, enrichment opportunities and personalised university guidance, the Sixth Form programme prepares students for success in higher education and future careers.

Recent leavers have gone on to study a wide range of subjects at highly respected universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Exeter, King's College London and Nottingham.

Interested in Cranleigh?

Whether you are exploring UK boarding education for the first time or are ready to apply, our International Admissions team is here to help. We can answer questions about entry requirements, year group placement, assessments, boarding life, guardianship and visas, and guide your family through every step of the admissions journey.

Visit usRegister your childMake an enquiry

Explore UK System Explained

Senior Academic Lesson Summer 2026 (2)

Visit an Open Day

All year groups front steps Summer 2026 (2)

Is Cranleigh right for my child?

Cranleigh Speech Day 2026 26 Yes