Expat Education Guide: Schools in London

Education Overview

London scores 5.0/5 for education quality and 4.0/5 for family-friendliness. The city has 14 school neighborhoods with international, bilingual, and local options for expat families. Expect approximately 27 education-related costs.

London offers a world-class education system with diverse options for families. The city boasts some of the UK's highest-performing schools alongside a rich variety of educational philosophies. London's education landscape includes state-funded schools (both mainstream and academies/free schools), a strong independent sector, and numerous international schools catering to the city's cosmopolitan population.

Quick Stats

Education Score

5.0 /5

Family Score

4.0 /5

School Areas

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$8,750

Monthly Costs

$7,750/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

School Registration $200

Private School Application Fee $250

International School Application Fee $400

Monthly

Tuition Fees Private $2,200/mo

Tuition Fees International $3,500/mo

Transportation Monthly $150/mo

Showing 6 of 27 costs — sign up to see all

Top School Neighborhoods

See All 14 →

Kensington

Density 5/6

Types: Independent, international, and state schools

Notable: Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, Holland Park School, Kensington Prep

Chelsea

Density 5/6

Types: Independent, international, and state options

Notable: Hill House, Eaton Square School, Francis Holland

Westminster

Density 5/6

Types: Independent, state, international and faith schools

Notable: Westminster School, Francis Holland School, Portland Place School

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Practical Tips

Research schools with a history of not being oversubscribed within your preferred boroughs

these schools may have places available even for later applications or those further from the catchment area

Submit school applications by the deadline, usually January for primary or October for secondary

all applications received by the deadline are considered equally, with no advantage for early submission

Consider schools in 'good' Ofsted rating areas near 'outstanding' zones

these schools often have shorter waiting lists but similar quality, particularly in areas like Hackney and Islington

Apply to multiple nurseries in Zones 2-3 simultaneously

waiting lists move quickly due to families relocating, especially in areas like Acton and Ealing

Useful Links

London School Admissions

Official portal for applying to state schools across all London boroughs, essential for families with children moving to London.

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Ofsted Reports

Government education standards office providing inspection reports and ratings for all London schools to help parents make informed choices.

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Study London

Official London government site for international students considering studying at London universities, with comprehensive resources and guidance.

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University of London

Federation of London universities with information on courses, admissions and student life across multiple prestigious London institutions.

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ESOL Courses (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Directory of English language courses available in London for non-native speakers who need to improve their English skills.

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Frequently Asked Questions

London has 14 neighborhoods with excellent school options. The best areas depend on whether you need international, public, or private schools. Check ReloPlanner for detailed school density scores per neighborhood.

International school tuition in London varies widely by school and grade level. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see detailed education cost breakdowns personalized to your family size.

There are approximately 27 education-related costs to consider when moving to London, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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