Eton College is one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious private boarding schools, renowned for its academic excellence, rigorous admissions process, and distinguished alumni. Many families in Hong Kong are curious about whether Eton College admits students from Hong Kong and whether the school lives up to its reputation. Tuition fees at Eton are also a key consideration, as it is known to be one of the most expensive boarding schools in the world, with annual fees reaching tens of thousands of pounds.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of Eton College’s tuition fees, entry requirements, curriculum highlights, and historical background — helping you gain a deeper understanding of this world-class institution.
History of Eton College
Eton College, located near Windsor in Berkshire, is one of the oldest and most prestigious all-boys private boarding schools in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI with the original aim of providing free education and boarding to boys from underprivileged backgrounds. The school was built upon a rigorous academic curriculum designed to broaden students’ knowledge and perspective.
Over the centuries, Eton has expanded its academic offerings while placing increasing emphasis on co-curricular development. The school now boasts extensive facilities, including libraries, museums, a theatre, and a concert hall, all designed to nurture students’ talents and cultivate leadership skills.
Today, Eton College stands as one of Britain’s most elite and celebrated schools. Its alumni include members of the British royal family — notably Prince William and Prince Harry — as well as numerous Prime Ministers and hundreds of leading figures in academia and public life.
Source: iStock
Boarding Life at Eton College
Boarding is a central aspect of life at Eton College, and all students are required to participate in the boarding programme. The school comprises 24 boarding houses, each accommodating around 50 students. Every house is supported by a dedicated pastoral team, typically consisting of a Dame (House Matron), an Assistant Matron, and domestic staff — all of whom play a vital role in helping students settle into school life and ensuring their wellbeing.[1]
Life as a boarder at Eton is rich and varied, designed to foster adaptability, self-discipline, and a wide range of practical life skills. The school excels in music, sport, drama, and the arts, offering students a broad selection of co-curricular activities that support well-rounded personal development.
Is Eton College a Good School? Academic Excellence and Student Achievements
Eton College is renowned for its exceptional academic performance. The curriculum is both rigorous and broad, covering traditional and modern subjects, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, independent thought, and interdisciplinary skills. The school offers 28 subjects, including 10 modern languages and classical languages, allowing students to explore their academic interests and unlock their potential.
As for whether Eton College is a good school, the results speak for themselves. In the 2024 GCSE exams, over 50% of students achieved a grade 9, with approximately 78% earning grades between 9 and 8. In the A-level exams, 76.6% of students attained grades from A to A*, and nearly all students go on to study at top universities in the UK, Europe, and the United States.[2][3]
Furthermore, Eton College is committed to providing equitable education. The school offers support for students with special needs or for those for whom English is not their first language. This includes one-on-one or small group tutoring to enhance learning strategies, exam preparation, and reading comprehension skills.[4]
Source: iStock
Eton College Admissions for Hong Kong Students
In addition to admitting outstanding students from the UK, Eton College also welcomes international applicants — including those from Hong Kong. The school accepts boys aged between 13 and 18, with a highly selective admissions process in place.
For those seeking entry into Year 9, students and families in Hong Kong should be aware of the following timeline and application procedure:
- Registration Deadline: Applicants must register by 30 June in the year they turn 10 (UK Year 5). Example: To enter in 2028, students must register by 30 June 2025.
- Application Process: Submit an online registration form and pay the registration fee. Students will then sit the ISEB Pre-Test at a specified time. Those who pass the first stage will be invited between January and early May to attend an individual interview, take a potential assessment, and undergo final review stages. Results are announced in March, May, and July respectively. Successful applicants will need to select a boarding house during the first or second term of UK Year 7, and pay the acceptance fee by the end of March.[5]
For Sixth Form entry, applications must be submitted between July and mid-September, prior to the student beginning Year 11 in the UK system. Students from UK state and independent schools, as well as international schools overseas, are eligible to apply. However, places for overseas applicants — including those from Hong Kong — are extremely limited and only available on a fee-paying basis. Admission is highly competitive and contingent on meeting strong academic standards.
According to Eton College’s official announcement, the ISEB Pre-Test assesses four key areas: verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English, and mathematics.
For Sixth Form (university preparatory) entry, students are expected to achieve at least six GCSEs at grade 7 or equivalent qualifications from Hong Kong. A strong track record in sports or the arts can also enhance a student’s competitiveness.
It is highly recommended that Hong Kong students planning to apply to Eton College review the latest admissions requirements published on the school’s official website and begin preparations early. Consulting a professional education advisor can also help students identify the most effective preparation strategy. [6]
Eton College Tuition Fees
Eton College is not only one of the most prestigious schools in the world, but also one of the most expensive. Despite its high fees, it remains a top choice for many families seeking a premium boarding school experience.
The school operates on a three-term academic year, with each term’s fees covering tuition, accommodation, meals, educational materials, and most co-curricular activities. However, additional costs may apply depending on individual needs, such as for private music lessons, insurance, and off-campus trips.
Eton College also provides assistance with student visa applications. For students commencing studies from September 2025 onwards, there is a £1,200 visa processing fee (including VAT), with an annual renewal fee of £600 thereafter.
Below are the 2024/25 academic year fees at Eton College (inclusive of VAT):
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Registration Fee | £480 |
| Acceptance Fee | £3,840 |
| Tuition per Term | £21,099.60 (VAT included) |
| Student Visa | £1,200 (annual renewal: £600) |
| Extra Cost | Music Lessons £522 to £1,044 [7] |
Source: iStock
Is Eton College Right for You? Speak with an Education Consultant
With nearly 600 years of history, Eton College has developed a comprehensive educational philosophy and a rich array of co-curricular activities that foster curiosity, independent thinking, and intellectual growth — all of which enhance students' academic and personal competitiveness.
Although Eton’s tuition fees are among the highest in the world, its outstanding academic standards and holistic approach to education continue to make it one of the most sought-after schools among discerning families.
If you would like to learn more about Eton College’s fees, curriculum, or admissions for Hong Kong students, and assess whether Eton is the right fit, we invite you to speak with our team of expert education consultants. We are here to provide personalised advice and up-to-date information.
Reference:
1. Eton College - Boarding
2. Eton College - 2024 GCSE Results, Grades 9-1
3. Eton College - 2024 A Level Results
4. Eton College - Learning Support
5. Eton College - Year 9 (13+) Entry
6. Eton College - Sixth Form (16+) Entry
7. Eton College - Fees