Registration deadlines.

The last date a school accepts an application for an entry year. Registering means returning the school's form and paying its fee, which puts your child on the list for assessment.

For 11+ and 13+ at London day schools, mostly late October or early November of the year before entry. Some boarding and 13+ schools close earlier, sometimes two years ahead. 16+ deadlines usually fall between October and December.

Most selective schools will not accept a late registration. It is worth calling the admissions office, as a place can open through the waiting list, but plan on waiting a year.

No. You pay a non-refundable fee, normally £100 to £350, and your child is entered for assessment. You do not have to sit the assessment or accept an offer.

Yes, and most families do. Check assessment dates first, as several London schools assess on the same days in January.