650
Students
About the school
Canford School is in Wimborne, Dorset, with about 650 pupils (the school's figure). It is full boarding seven days a week (no weekly or flexi option); over 65% of pupils are full boarders, and 10.5% have families living abroad.
2026 (as the school reports): 71% of GCSE grades were 9–7; 87% of A level and IB results were A*–B and 25% were A*; 88% of leavers went to Russell Group or Sunday Times Top 12 universities.
Key facts for parents
For international families
International applicants need an in-date UKiset English test at registration, then entrance tests and an interview. EAL lessons continue until pupils reach university standard. Entry is at 13+ and 16+: for 13+ register from the end of July in Year 5 or 6 for assessment rounds in January and February, with outcomes around Easter; for 16+ register by 11 October 2026, with tests and interviews in November and offers on 1 December.
Good to know
Registration fee £300 (incl. VAT, non-refundable). Deposit £1,500 (credited to the final bill; forfeited if the place is not taken up); families living outside the UK also pay one full term's fees. Scholarships are generally worth 5–20% of fees at 13+ and 16+; means-tested bursaries exist. The fees page gives boarding £19,073 and day £14,315 per term (2026–27, incl. VAT) but does not say which age range they cover, so we do not list them as senior fees.
Common questions
Where is Canford School and who is it for?
Canford School is in Wimborne, Dorset, for ages 13–18. Figures are on this page with their sources.
Which programmes does Canford School list?
GCSE, A Levels, IB Diploma.
When are the entry dates for Canford School?
The entry dates table on this page lists registration, assessments and results as the school published them (last checked 2026-10-15). Dates change, so confirm with the school before you plan.
Can Scholar Gateway help with Canford School?
Yes. We help with school choice and prepare students for entrance exams and interviews. A free assessment shows the student's current level first.
Entry process
16+ (Sixth Form) entry
| 2027 · 16+ | |
|---|---|
| Registration deadline | 11 October 2026 |
| Entrance assessments | November 2026 |
| Results letters sent | 1 December 2026 |
Dates can change. Always check the school's own website for the latest information.
Entry dates last checked against the school's own website: 15 October 2026.
Sources
- Canford international admissions (2026)
- Canford 13+ admissions (2026)
- Canford 16+ admissions (2026)
- Canford fees and finance (2026)
- Canford exam results 2026 (2026)
- Canford boarding (2026)
Thinking about Canford School?
We help families with school choice, entrance preparation, applications and interviews.
Figures compiled by Scholar Gateway from school information. Please check with us before you rely on them.