Magdalen College School

Oxford, Great Britain

Type of institution:

Private school
School

Age range:7+

Type of training:

Full-time
Part-time

Language of instruction:

english

Year of foundation:1480

About the Magdalen College School

Founded in 1480 by William Waynflete, Magdalen College School (Oxford) is a prestigious independent day school located in Oxfordshire. It serves approximately 900 students, predominantly boys aged 7–18, with girls joining in the Sixth Form. MCS has a strong academic reputation: the school was named Independent School of the Year twice in the early 2000s. It offers a broad curriculum from Key Stage 3 through A‑Levels, alongside extensive music, sports, drama, and debating programs. MCS remains closely linked to Magdalen College, Oxford, and retains traditions such as its unique sport, “Kingball,” and strong chorister presence. The ethos emphasizes academic excellence, personal development, and community spirit. Facilities include historic chapels, modern science labs, music school with multiple organs, sports fields on a river island, and extensive performing arts resources.

Admission conditions in Magdalen College School

Admissions cover entry at ages 7+, 11, and Sixth Form (16+). Entry is competitive and selection includes academic testing and interviews (especially at 13+ and Sixth Form). Required Exams: Entry at age 7+: informal assessments and interviews 13+ entry: Common Entrance or school’s bespoke entrance exam in English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning, plus interview Sixth Form (16+): Entry tests in chosen A‑Level subjects and a general interview Minimum Age: Common entry points: Year 3 (age 7–8), Year 7 (11), Year 12 (Sixth Form, age 16) Application Process: Register for entrance by relevant deadline (e.g., October 31 for 13+ entry) Sit entrance exams in January Attend interview (often around January) Offers issued early February; accept by March Educational Qualifications: Strong academic performance at primary or lower secondary level, with readiness for a rigorous curriculum. Required Documents: Reference from current school Exam results Interview performance Requirements for International Students: Must live within daily travel distance; no boarding. Strong English proficiency is assumed; external applicants follow the same entry process. Financial Requirements: Yearly fees vary; bursaries available for academically outstanding students (means-tested) at 13+ or Sixth Form entry. Testing or Interview: Mandatory for all competitive entry points. Additional Qualifications or Experience: Participation in music, sport, competitions, or creative activities adds value but is not required. Notification of Results: Offers typically communicated in early February; decisions must be accepted by early March.

Minimum rating for admission to Magdalen College School

No fixed grade threshold; selection is holistic but academic excellence (top ability in reasoning, Maths, English) is expected. Admission success rate is low given competition.

Prospects after completing studies in Magdalen College School

Graduates commonly take A‑Levels or Pre‑U qualifications and go on to top universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and other elite UK institutions. Alumni often participate in national music ensembles, sports, and academic competitions.