Educational Agent FAQs
FAQs for educational agents and their families
FAQs for our international pupils and boarders
We’re here to give you all the information you need to help you decide whether Kimbolton School is the right fit for your child. If you’re able to visit in person, we’d be delighted to welcome you for a personal tour of our schools and our boarding house.
You’ll find answers to many common questions below, but if there’s anything else you’d like to know, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our marketing and admissions team – we’re here to help.
Boarding FAQs
How easy is it to travel to Kimbolton boarding houses?
Kimbolton boarding houses are located within a 5 minute walk of our Senior School and within a 15 minute drive of St Neots railway station. Set in 120-acres of beautiful countryside, we are just 40 minutes from central Cambridge.
We can arrange airport transfers for Boarders arriving at any London airport. All drivers are DBS checked.
- London Stansted – 65 minutes by car
- London Luton – 60 minutes by car
- London Heathrow – 90 minutes by car
Do boarders have individual rooms?
Younger pupils share with other pupils in boarders and spacious rooms.
Pupils in Year 11 and Year 13 – public examination years – we do our best to ensure they have their own single room.
Do you have Exeat weekends?
We do not have Exeat weekends, except for one exception – the first May Bank Holiday weekend, where boarders do have to return to their guardians or return home.
When should I apply for boarding?
We have space for c.60 boarding pupils, therefore we advise applying for a boarding space at least 12 months before the intended starting date. If there is space, however, we can accept applications right up until the summer before September entry.
What mix of nationalities make up our boarding community?
This varies slightly each year, but we typically welcome students from around 20 different countries, creating a diverse and vibrant school community. This international mix enriches daily life at Kimbolton, giving students the opportunity to learn from different cultures and perspectives, broadening their understanding of the world.
How can I find out more about day-to-day life in boarding
You can find out more about life in our Boarding Houses in our Boarding Parent Handbook below.
International pupil FAQs
Do I need a guardian?
Pupils without a family member in the UK must have a UK-based guardian in place before they can be accepted at Kimbolton.
Many educational agents assist families with arranging guardianship as part of their service. Alternatively, families can apply directly through AEGIS. It is the family’s responsibility—not the school’s—to ensure a suitable guardian is appointed.
Do you offer Visa sponsorship?
Yes, Kimbolton School is a licensed student sponsor under the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system and is able to issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to support international boarding pupils requiring a Child Student visa. We offer this for full boarders who are aged 11 years and above.
We welcome applications from overseas families and work closely with parents and guardians to support the visa application process once a place has been formally offered and accepted. If you have any questions about international admissions or visa sponsorship, please contact our Admissions Team.
Do you achieve high grades?
At Kimbolton, academic excellence is at the heart of what we do. Our pupils consistently achieve strong results at both GCSE and A Level, reflecting the high standards of teaching, personalised support, and inspiring learning environment we provide. While we celebrate top grades, we also take pride in the progress and achievements of every pupil, ensuring they reach their full potential and are well-prepared for their next steps, whether that be university, apprenticeships, or other career pathways.
How do international pupils apply for a place?
We welcome boys and girls with a broad range of academic abilities who are eager to learn and make the most of school life.
Applications can be made directly to our Marketing & Admissions team or through an educational agent. We accept applications for all year groups except Year 11 and Year 13.
Places for international students are offered based on an individual interview (in person or online), age-appropriate assessments and activities, and a reference from the pupil’s current school.
When should I apply?
International applicants can apply all year round. We advise applying at least 12 months before the intended starting date, however, on occasions, there are places available later in the recruitment cycle so do get in touch to enquire.
What is the assessment process for overseas pupils?
At Kimbolton School, we value the unique potential of each pupil. Our international application process and entrance assessments are designed to evaluate current knowledge, understanding, and skills in a supportive environment.
We assess age-appropriate learning, so no special preparation is required. Our process is carefully designed to put applicants at ease, allowing them to demonstrate their abilities with confidence.
What level of English do pupils need?
Overseas pupils for whom English is not their first language should demonstrate proficiency through a recognised test, such as IELTS. The admissions process will include an interview – conducted virtually if needed – and will involve an entrance exam.
Pupils must have strong skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening to be clear, fluent and confident communicators in English. These abilities are essential for accessing the curriculum, working collaboratively, and succeeding in public examinations.
Do you offer English tuition?
Yes, we offer high-quality English as an Additional Language (EAL) tuition to support international pupils, delivered by experienced specialist teachers. This provision is available at an additional cost. Find out more about our exceptional English as an Additional provision.
Can we apply to a different year group?
In some cases, we may place students in a year group below their peers to better reflect their ability and understanding of the English language. If your child requires a visa, they must be under 18 on the first day of the academic year in which they begin their studies with us.
