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Secondary school applications close on 31 October: a checklist

Seven things to check before the deadline, and what happens after it.

Written by the Brainhub Editorial Team Cites published research Updated 13 Oct 2026 5 min read

Key takeaways

1. Who needs to apply, and where

If your child is in Year 6 this year, you apply for a Year 7 place for next September. In England the application goes through your home council, usually online, and the closing date is 31 October.[1]

Apply to your home council even if the school you want is in a different area. Your council passes the application on.[1]

2. The checklist

Work through these before you press submit.

1. Your list

Councils tell you how many schools you can list, and many allow several. Use every space, including at least one school you are confident of getting.

2. Your order

List schools in the order you really prefer them. Councils use an equal-preference system, so a first choice that is a long shot doesn’t reduce your chances at the schools below it.

3. Admissions criteria

Read each school’s published admissions policy. It says how places are shared out when there are more applicants than places, such as distance, siblings or a test score.

4. Extra forms

Some schools, such as faith schools and grammar schools, ask for a separate form or registration. These can have their own deadlines, so check each school’s website.

5. Your address

Places are often decided by home address. Check your council’s rules on proof of address, and on what counts if you are planning to move.

6. A confirmation

Make sure you get a confirmation email or reference number once you submit, and keep it.

7. The date

Aim to submit a few days early. Late applications are usually looked at after on-time ones, which can lower your chances.

Not sure which schools to list?: Our teachers can talk through what each school looks for in a free call.

3. What happens after 31 October

Offers are sent on National Offer Day, 1 March (or the next working day). You then have to accept the place by the date on your offer letter.[2]

If you don’t get your first choice, you can ask to join the waiting list of any school you prefer. You also have the right to appeal, and your offer letter explains how.[3]

A plan beats a panic. Start the checklist this week, not on the last day.

Try it now

Test yourself on this page

Answer in your head first, then check.

  1. 1. When do secondary school applications close in England?

  2. 2. Who do you apply to?

  3. 3. When are offers sent?

Your next steps

  • Read the admissions policy for every school on your list.
  • Check whether any school needs an extra form.
  • Submit a few days early and keep your confirmation.

Sources

  1. GOV.UK. Apply for a secondary school place. gov.uk/apply-for-secondary-school-place
  2. Department for Education (2021). School Admissions Code. gov.uk/government/publications/school-admissions-code--2
  3. GOV.UK. School admissions: appealing a school’s decision. gov.uk/schools-admissions/appealing-a-schools-decision

This guide is general study advice. Every student is different. A teacher can help you work out what fits.