Cheltenham College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Co-educational independent school
• Age Range: 3-18 years (11+ entry into Year 7)
• Location: Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7LD
• Day Fees: £11,330 to £11,730 per term
• Boarding Fees: £15,100 to £15,500 per term
• Contact: +44 1242 265600
• Founded: 1841
• Notable Achievement: Independent School of the Year 2024 (SoGlos Gloucestershire Lifestyle Awards)

About Cheltenham College

Cheltenham College has been providing exceptional education since 1841, establishing itself as one of Gloucestershire's premier independent schools. Located in the heart of the historic spa town of Cheltenham, the college combines academic rigour with a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals through its comprehensive programme of studies, sports, and creative arts.

The college's academic excellence is reflected in its consistently outstanding examination results, with numerous students securing places at Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group universities. What sets Cheltenham College apart is its balanced approach to education, where academic achievement goes hand-in-hand with character development and personal growth.

The school's recent recognition as Independent School of the Year at the 2024 SoGlos Gloucestershire Lifestyle Awards underscores its commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. This prestigious accolade reflects the college's dedication to nurturing young minds whilst maintaining strong connections with the local community.

Cheltenham College offers both day and boarding options, providing flexibility for families throughout Gloucestershire and beyond. The college's location in Cheltenham offers students access to the town's rich cultural heritage, including world-renowned festivals and excellent transport links to major cities.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Cheltenham College publishes day fees of £10,279 per term for 2026/27, with boarding at £13,402 per term, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration dates for the next 11+ round are published by the school's admissions office. Entry into Year 7 is via CAT4 cognitive ability assessments plus the College's own entrance papers in Maths and English (with an additional EAL paper for pupils with English as an additional language), per the Admissions Policy. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Cheltenham College

Cheltenham College employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry that evaluates each candidate's academic potential and personal qualities. The 11+ assessment is designed to identify students who will thrive in the college's challenging yet supportive academic environment.

Assessment Components:

• English Assessment: Focuses on reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills
• Mathematics: Tests problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical understanding
• Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates logical thinking, vocabulary, and language comprehension
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assesses spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and abstract thinking

The college's approach emphasises potential rather than curriculum-specific knowledge, recognising that children come from diverse educational backgrounds. Following the written assessments, candidates participate in interviews with teaching staff to discuss their interests, aspirations, and understanding of what makes Cheltenham College special.

These interviews allow the admissions team to assess each child's character, motivation, and potential contribution to the college community. The process is designed to be thorough yet supportive, ensuring that both the school and families can make informed decisions about the suitability of the placement.

How to Apply

The application process for Cheltenham College requires careful planning and attention to detail. Families are strongly encouraged to begin the process well in advance of their preferred entry date.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

• School Visit: Attend an open day or arrange a personal tour to experience the college's atmosphere and facilities
• Online Application: Complete the comprehensive application form available on the college's website
• Assessment Day: Attend the scheduled 11+ assessment session
• Academic References: Provide current school reports and teacher references
• Interview Process: Participate in individual interviews with teaching staff
• Decision Notification: Receive the admissions decision and next steps

The college's admissions team maintains an open-door policy for prospective families, providing guidance throughout the application process. They understand that choosing the right school is a significant decision and are committed to ensuring families have all the information needed to make the best choice for their child.

For the most current information regarding application deadlines, assessment dates, and specific requirements, families should consult the admissions section of the Cheltenham College website or contact the admissions office directly.

Preparing for the Cheltenham College 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Preparation for the Cheltenham College 11+ tends to go best when it starts early and stays steady, and most families who work with us begin between twelve and eighteen months out. Our tutors, who have prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, plan the work backwards from the school's own assessment format and registration deadline.

The tutors we match to 11+ preparation are drawn from a pool in which more than half hold Qualified Teacher Status, around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and which includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in the West Midlands and the Cotswolds and further afield work with us online, and in person in central London. Fees start from £50 per 50-minute session and depend on tutor level and subject, with no registration fee and a free initial consultation to talk through your child's current level and the timeline to the 11+. Families receive progress reports after sessions and have a dedicated point of contact, and we reply to enquiries within one working day with tutor recommendations.

Read more about our 11+ entrance exam tutors, or send an enquiry and we will come back with tutor recommendations.