For partners Cheltenham College
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources: GOV.UK, Wikipedia
Programs and prices, tuition fees in Cheltenham College
College curricula is aimed at the implementation of two main goals: deep, fundamental education and the formation of a harmonious personality.
For 13-year-olds, curricula is formed in such a way that the interrelations between subjects allow the child to develop humanitarian direction, and the natural sciences. The ninth year of study includes mastering two foreign languages, three exact disciplines and the Latin language. The schoolchildren, who have reached the age of 14 to 16, undergo 10 academic disciplines:
- 3 natural sciences;
- English and literature;
- French;
- Mathematics.
The school also offers 4 subjects to choose from and classes for general development:
- Theater;
- Design;
- Physical development;
- Art.
The study of two foreign languages ​​is considered mandatory in the school.
General Certificate of Secondary Education is the official certificate confirming incomplete secondary education. Its receipt testifies to the successful completion of studies in the 8th to 9th grade. In one or two years of the program, students study 3 main subjects:
- Academic English;
- Foreign language;
- Mathematics.
Additional disciplines can be chosen depending on their own talents and university requirements, in which the teenager plans to enter. As an additional Cheltenham College offers up to 70 electives, but among children is physics, economics, business, literature, biology, chemistry, accounting and law are especially popular. The certificate of incomplete secondary education can be obtained by passing 2 subjects from the compulsory and 3 to 5 from the list of additional disciplines.
The success of college education is determined by active work in the classrooms and laboratories, the originality of independent projects and the quality of domestic work. The curriculum provides for frequent testing and verbal checks. Having passed a nationwide uniform examination, students can count on receiving the GCSE.
After 11 years of study, students can take the International GCSE (an international version of the British GCSE), which will allow them to receive education abroad. At International GCSE, children take English literature, science and mathematics. To receive the UK Certificate of Part-time Secondary Education GCSE, you need to finish the rest of the items from the mandatory list.
The two-year program is designed to prepare applicants for admission to universities. The A-level certificate allows you not to pass the entrance exams, as its presence indicates a high level of academic British education.
Most high schools in the UK offer A-level to their students. The content of the program is unified and is the same for all colleges in the country. The number of subjects is small, since the emphasis is on the breadth of knowledge. The choice of each subject is determined by the student depending on the further specialty, and the studying process is intensive and profound.
In the first year, students master 4 basic subjects, in the second year - three. Cheltenham College offers a large selection of non-priority subjects, but recommends not taking close ones on subjects, so as not to disturb academic balance. As additional disciplines, students often choose those which are in the field of knowledge of their future profession.
After 12 years of training (AS-level), students take 4 exams in the subjects studied during the year. At 17-18 years, after 13 years of study, a successful passing of three exams is mandatory. The college offers a list of 24 electives, so that students define themselves their specialization, which will be devoted to the years of study at the university.
Description of Cheltenham College
- Year of foundation: 1841
- Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire county
- Age of students: 13-18 years
- Type of education: mixed
- Number of students: 600, 15% - foreign students
- Programs: high school, GCSE, A-level
- Accommodation: boarding house
- Ranking: one of the best private International schools in England UK.
Cheltenham College is a private school known for its high level of academic preparation. 95% of its graduates continue studying in prestigious UK universities, many become students of the leading universities in the world.
Cheltenham College was founded as an elite school for aristocratic children in the 19th century. Today, the institution adheres to traditions, but at the same time it meets all the requirements of the modern educational system. Every year foreign students from different countries come to the school. Children go to college at 13, 14, 16 years old. The institution is proud of the multicultural community, supports foreign students. For their comfortable learning, accommodation, adaptation, all conditions are created.
Cheltenham College confirms its reputation year after year. This mixed school in Gloucestershire offers studying GCSE, A-level programs. The results of final examinations at the school are among the best in the county. About 7% of students continue their studies at Cambridge and Oxford University.
The process of studying in prestigious and expensive Cheltenham College is based on traditional academic principles. At the same time, to attention of students, in addition to basic studies, research projects, sports programs are offered. There are many circles in the school, enabling students to concentrate on in-depth studying of interesting disciplines (mathematics, geography, natural sciences, literature, politics, history, etc.). The work of teachers is not limited by classical teaching. They orient students towards a future career.
Extra-curricular activities make the school life interesting and bright. Creative, sports sections work on an ongoing basis, allowing children with any level of ability to improve in the field of interest, to participate in theater, music, design or sports activities (swimming, squash, cricket, rugby, hockey, etc.).
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Educational process
The educational process at Cheltenham College is built around the 5Cs concept: Curiosity, Character, Community, Creativity and Continuous Excellence. Every weekday begins with an all-school one-hour assembly in the Chapel. A tutor meets with each student individually every two weeks to track progress and provide support.
In Third Form (Year 9), students study two foreign languages, three natural sciences, Latin, computer science and leadership, choosing from 17 subjects. In Fourth and Fifth Form (Years 10–11), most students study 9–10 GCSE/IGCSE subjects; for those who chose 9 subjects, the Electives programme is available (entrepreneurship, biochemistry, art history, sociology, programming, etc.).
In Sixth Form, most students study 3–4 subjects from approximately 30 options, in small groups, with personal tutors. All Sixth Form students complete the extended EPQ project. The careers programme starts from Year 10 (skills, work experience, CV writing); in Year 12, it also includes university applications, internships, Futures Week; in Year 13 — working with UCAS. The online platform Unifrog supports the application preparation process. Each Oxbridge candidate is assigned a mentor — a department head.
A dedicated EAL department operates for international students. In Prep School, the Study Skills programme runs from Year 3 to Year 8; the Chadwick Programme (for Year 8, on Thursdays) includes cookery, yoga, foreign languages, first aid and financial literacy. In Pre-Prep, children's progress is tracked through the online journal Tapestry with weekly updates for parents.
Faculties and colleges
Cheltenham College combines several levels of education on a single campus:
- Nursery (from age 3): a purpose-built building (2022) with glass walls, a sensory room and a forest playground; daily — PE, music, drama, French and outdoor activities.
- Pre-Prep (Reception – Year 2, ages 4–7): a themed curriculum with specialist teaching of French, music, drama and sport from Reception.
- Prep School (Years 3–8, ages 7–13): academically rigorous preparation without excessive pressure — joining in Year 7 ensures a smooth transition into the College in Year 9.
- Lower College (Years 9–11, ages 13–16): a choice of 21 GCSE/IGCSE subjects; most pupils study 9–10 subjects; an Electives programme is available for those who have chosen 9 subjects (entrepreneurship, biochemistry, art history, etc.).
- Upper College / Sixth Form (Years 12–13, ages 16–18). Around 30 qualifications: A-Level, BTEC (Applied Psychology, IT) and CTech (Business, Sport); most pupils study 3–4 subjects. The Extended Project EPQ is compulsory for all. A Mini-MBA programme and Oxbridge preparation are available.
A One-year GCSE programme is also available (starting from September 2027) — an accelerated course for international students covering mathematics, English, sciences and other subjects, as well as qualifications in programming and computing technologies.
Scientific achievements
- ISI 2023: «Excellent in all areas» — the highest rating for Cheltenham College and Cheltenham Prep across all inspection criteria.
- Polo: SUPA national championships 2022, 2023 (open and intermediate categories) and 2024 (open category).
- Rackets: over the last 5 years — 8 national champions and 10 finalists; the school has hosted the British Professionals' Championship twice; the world champion is a Cheltenham College alumnus.
- Listed in the Top 100 Schools for Cricket 2024.
- 5 students in the England Netball programme.
- The hockey programme has produced alumni who are international players at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games; polo players have represented the Great Britain national team.
- The Nursery School ranked in the top 20 best early years settings in the South West according to the Day Nurseries Awards 2023.
- Tatler Good Schools Guide 2026: «If you want to succeed, this is the school that will help you become even better».
- A-Level 2025 results: A* — 20%, A*–A — 51%, A*–B — 82%.
- 95% of graduates continue their studies at prestigious universities in the UK.
Things to know about
- Cheltenham College was founded in 1841 — it is one of the oldest independent schools in Great Britain.
- Cheltenham Prep — the largest preparatory school in Cheltenham, accepting around 420–450 pupils. Direct transport connections to London (Paddington) — 2 hours by train, to Birmingham Airport — about 1 hour's drive.
- Cheltenham Cricket Festival has been held since 1872, making it considered the oldest cricket festival in the world.
- In 1886, the «Cheltenham rules» were officially adopted by the Rugby Union.
- Cheltenham College — one of the four original schools that played rackets since 1868 (alongside Eton, Harrow, and Charterhouse).
- The only school in Great Britain with two Steinway Model D concert grand pianos, holding the status of All-Steinway School.
- Cheltonian Society already unites more than 10,000 graduates worldwide.
- A school pupil sent code written by him to space as part of programming classes on Raspberry Pi.
- The Chapel of St. Mary and St. George was designed by a former pupil, consecrated in 1896, seats 800 and is equipped with a Harrison&Harrison organ.
Accommodation, meals, prices
Accommodation in the school is organized in 10 buildings. 8 of them are occupied by students on full board basis. In 2 buildings there are students of full-time education. Each residence has everything necessary to communicate with your peers, comfortable rest. The school staff tries to make living in its walls as comfortable as possible for all students. At Cheltenham College all the wishes of children and parents for accommodation are taken into account.
Subjects and sports
Activities Cheltenham College
The school employs 18 sports coaches, who have a professional career behind them. They serve not only as coaches, but also as mentors, helping children to achieve success in their chosen sport.
Advantages
- The high level of academic preparation;
- Great opportunities for self-development (both in studies and in creativity, sports);
- Comfortable studying and living conditions;
- Mix of traditional and modern teaching methods;
- Full immersion in the educational environment of England.
Facilities and equipment at Cheltenham College
The school has everything necessary for high-quality studying. This applies to teaching materials, interactive, other resources. For leisure and sports on campus there is also necessary equipment and places. On the territory of Cheltenham College, as in other best colleges in the UK, there is a heated swimming pool, several tennis courts, a sports complex, a theater, a concert hall, sports grounds, a gym, a climbing wall, a boat station.
Admission dates and extra charges
The academic year is divided into three terms: autumn (September — December), spring (January — March) and summer (April — July). Each term includes half-term holidays.
The registration fee is £240 and is non-refundable.
In addition to the main tuition fee, additional costs may arise: English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes, guardianship services for international students, transfers to airports and railway stations, and insurance. Smapse specialists will guide you through all stages of the application process and help you understand the cost structure.
Extras:
- Registration fee (for a programme/course) 75 GBP
Enrolment process
Admission to Cheltenham College begins with submitting a registration form (online), paying a non-refundable registration fee, and uploading the required documents. Applicants will need to pass entrance examinations — Common Entrance exams or the school's own exams — and an interview with admissions representatives.
If you have preferences regarding accommodation (a specific residence), it is recommended to indicate them in advance. You can get acquainted with the school at open events (Open Morning on Saturdays) or during an individual campus tour. Smapse specialists will guide you through every stage of the admissions process.
Enrolment statistics
Cheltenham College is distinguished by consistently high academic results. 67% of students taking instrumental music exams receive a «Distinction» grade. A-Level results have been consistently high for many years.
Perspectives
Cheltenham College demonstrates consistently high academic results over many years.
A-Level Results:
- 2025 — A* 20%, A*–A 51%, A*–B 82%;
- 2024 — A* 11%, A*–A 41%, A*–B 75%;
- 2023 — A* 20%, A*–A 52%, A*–B 79%;
- 2022 — A* 20%, A*–A 54%, A*–B 81%.
- Average results 2017–2021: A* 22%, A*–A 55%, A*–B 80%.
In GCSE in 2025, 60% of grades were Grade 7 and above.
Graduates regularly gain admission to Exeter, Bristol, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, Bath, St Andrews, Newcastle, Manchester, and other leading universities in the United Kingdom.
Good Schools Guide (2023): «Every school says it produces well-rounded students — this one actually does».
Entry requirements, how to apply, what is required to enrol
- Main entry points: age 13 (Lower College / Third Form, Year 9) and age 16 (Upper College / Sixth Form, Year 12); entry into Year 10 (14+) and Year 11 (15+) is also possible.
- At registration, the following must be provided: a copy of the passport, birth certificate, most recent school report (transcript) and a reference from the school. A non-refundable registration fee is required.
- Common Entrance exams — every June; own 13+ exams — in November of Year 8; 14+ exams — in November of Year 9; 16+ exams (Sixth Form) — in November of Year 11.
- For international students applying to the Sixth Form (16+), an English language test is mandatory; for 13+ applicants, the English level is assessed before the start of studies.
- After submitting documents: interview → offer of admission → payment of deposit.
- If a student visa to the United Kingdom is required, this must be indicated at registration, and Smapse specialists will assist with the preparation of the necessary documents.
- Open days (Open Morning on Saturdays) and individual campus tours on weekdays are held (duration 1.5–2 hours).
Scholarships Cheltenham College
Scholarships are available for ages 13+ and 16+ and are awarded for academic excellence, sports, music, arts and drama. All scholarships are assigned individually, taking into account the financial condition of the family, and can cover up to 100% of the cost of studies.
Literature and references
Institution on the map
Residence permits, citizenship and other services
- Guardianship services during the studies
- Student supervision
Review about Cheltenham College
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Recommendations on when to apply
| Language courses, schools and children's language camps | Primary and secondary education - private schools | Preparation programmes for entering universities - higher education | Higher education (after completing accredited programs A-level, IB, High School) - Bachelor, Master, MBA |
| - we recommend to apply 6-9 months before the start of the course (some camps and schools offer discounts for early booking or for lengthy study programs) - there are some very popular and high demand children's camps, where the applications need to be submitted 1 year in advance (in particular Switzerland , Great Britain , USA , Canada , Austria) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the training program, - some schools have a specific time frame (September-November - please specify an individual school) - some schools require tests in several stages (UKISET, internal tests of the school: English, mathematics, logics, subjects, interview, some require a personal visit) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the program, - for Foundation and Pathway programs, IELTS and TOEFL certificates are usually required, respectively | - recommended submission one year before the start of the program, - the deadline normally closes in January, for TOP HEIs and, as a rule, in March in other universities - for a bachelor, a Foundation or Pathway preparatory program a completed A-level, IB, High School + IELTS / TOEFL are required - for Masters you need a graduated higher education, in some cases you need a pre-Masters program - MBA requires completed higher education, work experience preferably at least 2-3 years, etc. |
