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Somerset College
Admissions
General enquiries: +27 21 842 8000
admissions@somcol.co.za
HOW TO APPLY
1
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Complete an online application, including all required documents and payment of the application fee. Once submitted, your application will be placed on the appropriate waiting list.
2
ASSESSMENT PROCESS
When a place becomes available, applicants may be invited to complete age-appropriate academic assessments relevant to their grade level. These assessments help us understand each student’s readiness and ensure appropriate placement within the school.
Assessment outcomes are reviewed together with previous school reports and overall availability. The Admissions Office will guide families through the required steps and timelines.
3
REVIEW AND MEETING
Following the assessment, the Academic Committee will review the application. If eligible, a meeting with the Academic Committee, and where applicable, the Head of Boarding, will be scheduled.
4
FINAL DECISION
After the meeting, the Academic Committee will make the final decision, and you will receive either a letter of offer or regret.
DOCUMENTATION & WAITLIST
Prior to the assessment, additional documents may be requested. In certain cases, assessments and interviews can be conducted remotely. For Grade 000 to Grade 0, there is no formal assessment—applications will be reviewed by the Head of Pre-Preparatory when a space opens.
If we are unable to place your child for the year applied for, the application will be automatically rolled over to the following year.
Admissions FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about the application process. If you need further detail, our Admissions team will be happy to assist.
When should we apply?
We encourage families to apply as early as possible, particularly for entry years where demand is high. The Admissions Office will advise on timelines and next steps once an application has been received.
Is there an assessment for all applicants?
Yes. Most applicants complete an age-appropriate academic assessment relevant to their grade level. In most cases, age-appropriate academic assessments form part of the application process. Full details are available in the How to Apply section of this page.
Does submitting an application guarantee a place?
Submitting an application does not guarantee placement. Applications are reviewed according to availability, assessment outcomes and alignment with the school’s admissions criteria.
How long does the admissions process take?
The duration of the admissions process varies depending on the grade level and time of year. Once an application has been submitted, the Admissions Office will advise on next steps and expected timelines.
What are the age requirements for each grade?
Age requirements vary by phase and entry year. Families are encouraged to review the relevant grade-level information or contact the Admissions Office for guidance specific to their child.
Are school fees available before enrolment is confirmed?
Yes. Fee information is available prior to enrolment and can be reviewed in the Tuition and Fees section of this page. Full details are provided before accepting an offer of placement.
Can we visit the school before applying?
Yes. Families are welcome to book a tour of the campus to gain a clearer understanding of the school environment before submitting an application.
Does attending a tour influence admissions decisions?
No. A school visit is an opportunity for families to learn more about Somerset College. It does not influence placement decisions.
Who should we contact if we have questions during the process?
All admissions-related queries can be directed to the Admissions Office. Contact details are available on this page.
VISIT THE SCHOOL
We welcome the opportunity to show prospective students and parents our school and facilities. Tours are scheduled in coordination with students and staff to minimise disruption to the school day.
Visits are available for Preparatory, Senior and Boarding phases. Once you submit a booking request, the Admissions Liaison will confirm your tour details via email.
TUITION AND FEES
Explore your investment in your child’s education by reviewing our comprehensive fee structure.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES
Somerset College offers partial scholarships for talented prospective Grade 8 students. These scholarships are awarded for academic excellence and based on the outcome of an interview of shortlisted candidates. All scholarships are for a student’s full Senior School career (Grade 8 to Matric), not including boarding, provided conduct and academic performance are satisfactory.
COLLEGE SHOP
Our Uniform Shop is open Monday to Thursday from 07:30 to 15:30, and on Fridays from 08:00 to 13:00.
The Book Room operates Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 14:00, and on Fridays from 08:00 to 13:00.
For enquiries, please contact us at 021 842 8000 ext 8008 or email collegeshop@somcol.co.za.