Applications Open For Secondary School Places In West Sussex

Parents and carers in West Sussex can now apply for secondary school places for September 2026. Applications must be submitted by the deadline of Friday 31 October 2025.

The council is encouraging families to get their applications in on time, as nearly 97% of pupils in the county are offered one of their top three school choices each year.

Councillor Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said:

“Our priority is to ensure all young people have access to education which helps them achieve their potential.

"We’re urging parents to apply before the deadline so their choices are considered.”

Applications can be made quickly and easily online via the West Sussex County Council website, with automatic confirmation once forms are submitted.

Support is also available for anyone who doesn’t have internet access — including free computer use in all West Sussex libraries, where staff can also provide help filling out online forms.

Paper forms can be requested by calling 03330 142903, and the Pupil Admissions Team is available on the same number to answer questions.

Key things to remember:

• List three schools in order of preference.

• Include your catchment school if there is one.

• Living in a catchment area doesn’t guarantee a place.

• If you miss the deadline, you must still apply — places are not given automatically.

👉 The deadline to apply is Friday 31 October 2025.