King's Maths School

Admissions FAQ – King's Maths School

Admissions Timeline & Key Dates

Q: When do applications open for September 2026 entry?

A: Applications opened on Friday 12 September 2025 and close on Sunday 23 November at 23:59.

Q: When are the Open Evenings and Taster Days?

A: Online Open Evenings will be held on Tuesday 30 September and Wednesday 5 November

Note: These events will be held via Microsoft Teams. You can register by signing up on the website.

The Taster Days are by invitation only. Applicants may express interest in attending via the main application form, which can be found on the website. They are scheduled for:

Saturday 11 October

Saturday 8 November

Saturday 15 November

Q: When is the Admissions Test?

A: Saturday 6 December 2025 at the ExCel Centre, London.

Q: When are interviews held?

A: Friday 23 January and Saturday 24 January 2026, for shortlisted candidates.

Q: When are offers sent out?

A: Offers are normally sent out Early February.

Q: What happens after offers are sent out?

A: We run a “Horizons” programme for offer holders to visit the school, get to know each other, get comfortable in the school, find out about enrolment, and do some fun Maths and Physics problem solving together!

Eligibility & Entry Requirements

Q: Who can apply?

A: Students must be in Year 11 at the time of application. We do not accept students who have already completed GCSEs or are in Year 12.

Q: Do you accept international qualifications?

A: Yes, but all applicants must sit the Admissions Test and Interview in person. We recommend taking GCSE or IGCSE English Language.

Q: What are the GCSE grade requirements?

A: Grade 8 or 9 in GCSE Mathematics, Grade 7, 8 or 9 in GCSE / iGCSE, Physics or grade 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science, Grade 5 in English Language GCSE or equivalent and any other four GCSEs of grade 5 or better.

Application Process

Q: Where can I apply?

A: Visit our website at https://www.kingsmathsschool.com/admissions to apply.

Q: Can I submit a late application?

A: Late applications are not normally considered, please contact the school on KCLMSadmissions@kcl.ac.uk.

Q: Do I need a personal statement or predicted grades?

A: No, a personal statement is not required. We collect predicted grades from a teacher-referee as a cross check, but this is not a contributing factor to admissions decisions.

Admissions Test & Interview

Q: What’s the format of the test?

A: A 90-minute non-calculator paper based on Key Stage 3 Maths, 30 minutes of which is multiple choice. Specimen questions are available on the website for the written part of the test.

Q: Can I reschedule my test or change my time slot?

A: We expect candidates to prioritise this test date over other commitments. For compelling and extenuating circumstances, or in the event of a serious illness, a reserve slot may be offered if we have availability.

Q: Can the test be taken remotely?

A: No. All candidates must sit the exam in person in London.

Q: What can I do to prepare for the Interviews?

A: There are two interviews on that day.

Maths interview: You will work with one of our teachers on a one-to-one basis. You will be taught some new mathematics by them, and then they will work through some questions with you on paper. During this interview, we encourage you to share your thoughts, listen carefully to any suggestions your interviewer makes, and try to respond to them. You do not need to do anything specific in advance to prepare for this interview.

Personal interview: One of our teachers will ask you about yourself and your interests. In advance of this interview, you should reflect on:

Your interests both in and out of school, so that you are ready to discuss them at the interview.

How you deal with setbacks personally and work effectively with others in a team.

Someone you admire and achievements that you are proud of.

School Life & Curriculum

Q: What subjects do students study?

A: Year 12: Maths, Further Maths, Physics + either Economics or Computer Science.

Year 13: Working towards A Levels in Maths, Further Maths + either Physics or Computer Science. Read more here.

Q: Do you offer Chemistry or Biology?

A: No. We only offer Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Economics, and Computer Science.

Q: What kind of support is available for students?

A: Each student is part of a tutor group, with their tutor being the first point of contact and a key source of pastoral support.

With regards to SEND students, although we do not have a TA assisting in lessons, we have a dedicated SEN learning mentor who provides one-to-one tailored support and runs group interventions. In addition, we have in-school counsellors available to support students’ wellbeing.

Q: Is there a dress code?

A: No, we simply expect that students will dress appropriately for a school environment.

Enrolment & Results Day

Q: What happens on Results Day?

A: Students must complete the enrolment form and submit GCSE results. If unable to attend in person, they can send a parent/carer with the necessary documents for more details; please contact KCLMSadmissions@kcl.ac.uk.

Q: What documents are needed for enrolment?

A: GCSE results slip, Photo ID, Proof of UK education eligibility, Completed enrolment form via Cognito.

Q: Is financial support available?

A: Yes, for eligible students (e.g. FSM, Universal Credit). Details can be found on the Financial Support page.

International students & Outreach

Q: Do you offer student visas?

A: No. As a state-funded school, we cannot sponsor visas.

Q: Can younger students apply or visit?

A: Younger students in year 11 can apply. Please contact KCLMSadmissions@kcl.ac.uk to inquire.

Please note that our outreach programmes are available for Years 9–11.

Other Common Queries

Q: Can I transfer mid-year or join in Year 13?

A: No. All students must complete the full two-year programme starting in Year 12.

Q: Do you offer private exam entries or IB?

A: No. We offer A Levels only, and do not accept private exam entries.

Q: Can I visit the school before applying?

A: Yes, through Open Evenings, Taster Days, or the Virtual Tour.

Admissions query form

If you haven’t found the information you’re looking for, our team is ready to help. Please fill out the form below or send us an email, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you.