International Boarders
International Boarders
A global community, a place to belong
Choosing to board at Cheltenham Ladies’ College means joining a community that extends far beyond the classroom - and far beyond the UK.
Each year, students from 40+ countries around the world arrive at CLC, becoming part of a diverse community of 820 pupils. Together, they bring different perspectives, cultures and ideas, shaping a community defined by curiosity, courage and compassion.
Here, students are encouraged to think deeply, act with integrity and develop the confidence to make a positive impact, wherever their future takes them.
Hear from our students
Hear first-hand from our students about life as international students, how they settled in and why they love their time at CLC.
The best thing about CLC is literally everything. But if I could focus on one thing, it would be how many opportunities we have and how many things I can go for.
Simone, international student
Designed for International families
Joining a UK boarding school is a significant decision - for both students and their families. Throughout the Admissions and induction process, our teams work closely with families to ensure a smooth and confident transition to life at CLC.
Support includes:
Support through the admissions and visa process
Guardianship guidance
Escorted airport transfers at the start and end of term
A structured induction programme on arrival
From first arrival to settling into daily routines, students are supported every step of the way.
Key entry points
A warm and supportive start to senior school. Students join our Junior Houses and quickly become part of a nurturing community that builds confidence, curiosity and independence.
Join our vibrant and diverse Upper College cohort, and begin shaping the GCSE journey with a strong sense of purpose and belonging.
Join our Sixth Form to study A Levels or the IB, developing independence, and build confidence and leadership skill whilst forging a path for your future.
Occasional places may become available in other year groups. Our Admissions team will be happy to advise on availability.
Our Short Stays programme offers the opportunity to experience life at CLC for one to three terms.
More information
Students without British Citizenship, dependant leave to remain, or settled or pre-settled status in the UK must hold a Child Student visa (or Student visa if over 18) before they start at CLC.
All international students must have a UK-based guardian. We strongly recommend they are AEGIS/BSA accredited, and must meet CLC Educational Guardianship Requirements. We can support families and provide guidance on suitable guardianship arrangements.
Common Questions
Over 40 nationalities are represented in the current CLC student body. They form part of the wider CLC community which includes Guild, our Alumnae network of 9000 alumnae in 81 countries.
Many international applicants are required to complete UKiset as part of the admissions process.
We would expect students to have a high level of English prior to joining us, however, support is provided where needed to help students fully access the curriculum and build confidence in their academic English.
We provide escorted airport transfers at the start and end of term. This is bookable a few weeks in advance via a dedicated online portal.
Yes. We'd be delighted if you wanted to visit your daughter either for an event, or to catch up over dinner.
Yes. A full weekend programme is offered during term time.
Scholarships are available, although they do not provide fee remission. Bursaries are only available to UK-based families.
All applicants sit entrance assessments. Requirements and timelines vary by entry year group.
Full details are available in our entry guides.
Students are supported from the moment they arrive. Induction programmes, supportive and experienced house staff and a network of peer support, including our Big Sisters scheme, helps them quickly feel part of the community.
We frequently travel to attend events and school fairs. During these visits, we often hosts receptions and one-to-one meetings with prospective families.
Upcoming visits:
China
Hong Kong
Kenya
Spain
Get in touch to find out dates, and to arrange a meeting with a member of staff.
- For Fearless
- Futures
- Thinking
- Innovation
- Enterprise
- Creativity
- Women
- Questions
- Ideas
- Friendships
- Minds
- Learning