Eton College
Windsor, Berkshire
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
Not provided
Boarding
£21,100
Compare Independent Schools by Fees
Independent school fees are often one of the first factors families consider when building a shortlist, but understanding how costs vary between schools can be challenging. Fee levels differ significantly across the sector, reflecting factors such as location, facilities, boarding provision, class sizes and the breadth of opportunities available to pupils.
Independent school fees are often one of the first factors families consider when building a shortlist, but understanding how costs vary between schools can be challenging. Fee levels differ significantly across the sector, reflecting factors such as location, facilities, boarding provision, class sizes and the breadth of opportunities available to pupils.
Featured Schools in this Comparison
Side-by-side key details for the schools featured on this page.
Harrow School
Harrow-on-the-Hill, Middlesex
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
Not provided
Boarding
£21,245
Winchester College
Winchester, Hampshire
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£14,800
Boarding
£20,000
Wellington College
Berkshire
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£15,250
Boarding
£20,750
St Paul's Girls' School
London, Greater London
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£12,414 - £13,409
Boarding
Not provided
Bradfield College
Bradfield, Berkshire
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£15,512
Boarding
£19,390
Cranleigh School
Cranleigh, Surrey
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£11,550 - £15,600
Boarding
£19,130
King's College School Wimbledon
London, Greater London
Fees (per term, inc. VAT)
Day
£10,129 - £11,940
Boarding
Not provided
Why Families Choose Independent Schools by Fees
- Fees vary considerably by region, age group and school type.
- Additional costs can differ significantly between schools.
- Comparing fees helps establish realistic budgets.
- Schools offer different levels of facilities and provision.
- Value is often determined by more than headline fees alone.
About This Comparison
Independent school fees are often one of the first factors families consider when building a shortlist, but understanding how costs vary between schools can be challenging. Fee levels differ significantly across the sector, reflecting factors such as location, facilities, boarding provision, class sizes and the breadth of opportunities available to pupils.
While cost is an important consideration, many families compare fees alongside factors such as academic approach, school culture, pastoral support and co-curricular opportunities. Looking beyond headline figures can help parents understand the overall value offered by different schools and identify options that align with both their educational priorities and budget.
This guide compares fees across a range of leading independent schools, helping families review school profiles side by side. Use the comparison table below to understand how schools differ and build a shortlist that reflects both your ambitions and your budget.
School Summaries
Eton College
Eton College is one of the UK's most prestigious independent boarding schools for boys aged 13–18 and is consistently among the highest-fee schools in the country. Located in Berkshire, the school offers a full-boarding education supported by exceptional facilities, extensive co-curricular opportunities and a strong academic reputation. Families comparing Eton often assess whether the school's academic outcomes, university destinations, boarding experience and wider opportunities justify the significant financial commitment. Eton is frequently compared with schools such as Harrow, Winchester College and Radley College when evaluating educational approach, reputation and long-term return on investment.
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Harrow School
Harrow School is one of the UK's most established and recognised independent boarding schools for boys aged 13–18 and is among the highest-fee schools in the sector. Located in north-west London, the school combines a traditional full-boarding experience with strong academic outcomes, extensive facilities and a broad co-curricular programme. Families comparing Harrow often consider whether the school's reputation, distinctive house system, leadership opportunities and boarding culture justify the significant investment. Harrow is frequently compared with schools such as Eton, Winchester, Rugby and Wellington when evaluating value, educational approach and overall school experience.
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Winchester College
Winchester College is one of the UK's most academically prestigious independent boarding schools for boys aged 13–18 and sits within the highest-fee tier of the sector. The school is known for its intellectual culture, rigorous academic approach and distinctive educational tradition, attracting families seeking a highly academic boarding environment. When comparing Winchester's fees, families often consider the school's academic outcomes, university destinations, subject breadth and boarding experience alongside the overall educational value offered. Winchester is frequently compared with schools such as Eton, Harrow and Westminster School when assessing academic ambition, educational philosophy and return on investment.
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Wellington College
Wellington College is one of the UK's leading co-educational independent schools for pupils aged 13–18 and is positioned within the premium fee tier of the sector. Located in Berkshire, the school combines strong academic outcomes with extensive facilities, broad co-curricular opportunities and a well-established reputation for pastoral care and pupil wellbeing. Families comparing Wellington's fees often consider the balance between academic ambition, boarding flexibility, modern educational provision and the overall breadth of opportunities available. Wellington is frequently compared with schools such as Charterhouse, Marlborough College, Bradfield College and Harrow when assessing value, school culture and the overall educational experience.
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St Paul's Girls' School
St Paul's Girls' School is one of the UK's most academically successful independent day schools for girls aged 11–18 and sits within the premium fee tier of the sector. Located in west London, the school is known for exceptional academic outcomes, strong university destinations and a culture that encourages intellectual curiosity, independence and achievement. Families comparing St Paul's Girls' School often assess whether its academic reputation, breadth of opportunities and long-term educational outcomes justify the significant investment. The school is frequently compared with institutions such as North London Collegiate School, Westminster School, Godolphin & Latymer and South Hampstead High School when evaluating value, academic ambition and overall fit.
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Bradfield College
Bradfield College is a leading co-educational independent boarding and day school for pupils aged 13–18, offering a premium education at a lower fee level than some of the UK's most expensive boarding schools. Located in Berkshire, the school combines strong academic outcomes with a broad co-curricular programme, modern facilities and a well-established boarding community. Families comparing Bradfield's fees often consider the balance between academic ambition, boarding provision, pastoral support and overall value for money. Bradfield is frequently compared with schools such as Wellington College, Charterhouse, Marlborough College and Radley College when assessing educational quality, school culture and long-term value.
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Cranleigh School
Cranleigh School is a leading co-educational independent boarding and day school for pupils aged 13–18, combining strong academic outcomes with a broad and balanced approach to education. Located in Surrey, the school is known for its extensive co-curricular programme, strong sporting tradition, modern facilities and supportive pastoral environment. Families comparing Cranleigh's fees often consider the value offered through its combination of academic ambition, boarding provision, pupil wellbeing and opportunities beyond the classroom. Cranleigh is frequently compared with schools such as Wellington College, Charterhouse, Bradfield College and Marlborough College when assessing educational quality, school culture and overall value.
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King's College School Wimbledon
King's College School, Wimbledon is one of the UK's leading independent day schools for boys aged 7–18 and is consistently recognised for exceptional academic outcomes and university destinations. Located in south-west London, the school combines academic ambition with extensive opportunities in sport, music, drama and wider co-curricular life. Families comparing King's College School's fees often consider the value offered by its academic reputation, breadth of opportunities and day-school model, which avoids the additional costs associated with boarding. King's is frequently compared with schools such as Westminster School, St Paul's School, University College School and Winchester College when evaluating academic excellence, educational value and overall fit.
View ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
How much do private schools cost in the UK?
Private school fees vary significantly depending on the school, age group and whether a pupil attends as a day student or boarder. Prep schools often charge lower fees than senior schools, while boarding schools generally cost more because accommodation, meals and pastoral care are included. Fees can also vary according to location, facilities and the range of opportunities offered by the school. In addition to tuition fees, families should budget for registration fees, deposits, uniforms, trips and extracurricular activities. Because fee structures change regularly, it is important to review the latest information directly with each school. Comparing schools by fees can help families identify options that align with both their educational priorities and financial circumstances.
Do higher private school fees mean a better school?
Not necessarily. While some of the UK's most expensive private schools have exceptional facilities, strong academic reputations and extensive co-curricular programmes, cost alone does not determine quality. The most suitable school for a child will depend on factors such as teaching approach, school culture, pastoral care, class sizes and the opportunities available beyond the classroom. Some schools offer excellent value while charging considerably lower fees than more prestigious competitors. Families should focus on finding the environment that best matches their child's needs rather than assuming that the highest fees automatically represent the best educational experience.
Why do private school fees vary so much?
Private school fees reflect a wide range of factors, including location, staffing levels, class sizes, facilities, boarding provision and co-curricular opportunities. Schools with extensive grounds, specialist facilities or large boarding communities often have higher operating costs. Some schools also invest heavily in areas such as sport, music, drama, technology or pupil support services. Differences in fee levels can therefore reflect significant variations in the educational experience offered. Comparing schools side by side can help families understand what is included and assess overall value rather than focusing on headline costs alone.
What additional costs should families expect?
School fees are only part of the overall cost of private education. Families should also budget for expenses such as registration fees, acceptance deposits, uniforms, school trips, examination fees and optional extracurricular activities. Some schools include a wider range of services and activities within their published fees, while others charge separately for certain opportunities. Boarding schools may also have additional costs relating to travel and personal expenses. Understanding the full cost of attendance can help families make more informed comparisons and avoid unexpected expenditure.
Are there affordable private schools in the UK?
Yes. Private school fees vary considerably and there are many schools that offer a high-quality education at a lower cost than some of the sector's most famous institutions. Families often find that schools outside major cities or those with a different educational focus can provide excellent value. The right school is not always the most expensive or prestigious option. Comparing fees alongside academic outcomes, facilities, pastoral care and co-curricular opportunities can help families identify schools that deliver strong overall value.
Do private schools offer scholarships?
Many private schools offer scholarships to recognise achievement or potential in areas such as academics, sport, music, drama, art and other specialist disciplines. Scholarship awards vary considerably between schools. Some provide meaningful fee reductions, while others are largely honorary awards that recognise achievement. Families interested in scholarships should review each school's criteria carefully and understand the assessment process, which may include examinations, auditions, portfolios or interviews.
Are bursaries available to help with school fees?
Many private schools offer means-tested bursaries designed to make independent education more accessible to families. Unlike scholarships, bursaries are typically awarded based on financial need and can range from partial support to full fee assistance in exceptional circumstances. Eligibility criteria and funding levels vary significantly between schools. Families considering bursary support should begin researching options early, as demand can be high and application processes often require detailed financial information.
How can families compare schools by fees?
Comparing schools by fees is most effective when combined with a broader assessment of value. Families should consider what is included within the fees, alongside factors such as academic outcomes, facilities, class sizes, pastoral support, co-curricular opportunities and destination results. Visiting schools and attending open days can also provide important context that is not reflected in fee tables alone. The best value school is often the one that offers the right balance of opportunity, support and educational quality for a particular child rather than simply the lowest cost option.
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