Planning Tool

School Year Calculator

Enter your child’s date of birth to see which UK year group they belong in, and when they would join each stage of school.

Year groups in England & Wales are based on age on 31 August. Children born between 1 September and 31 August share a school year.

Current Age

Year of Entry

Academic years run from September to July.
Academic year	Year group	Age during year	Entry point

Common independent school entry points are 7+ (Year 3), 11+ (Year 7), 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Year 12, sixth form). Some schools also admit at 8+, 10+ and 14+.

Scotland and Northern Ireland use different cut-off dates and year names. Some schools may place a child out of their chronological year group, so please check with the school.

Would you like advice on timing an application? info@whichbritishschool.com

Frequently asked questions

How do I work out which UK year group my child is in?

Take your child's age on 31 August before the school year starts and subtract 4. A child who is 12 on 31 August 2026 joins Year 8 in September 2026. Scotland and Northern Ireland use different rules.

Can my child join the year below their age group?

Some schools accept a pupil one year out of their age group, particularly at sixth form, but it is at each school's discretion. Ask the school or talk to us before you apply.