Primary 1 Admissions September 2026 Process

Primary 1 School Age

If your child was born between 2 July 2021 and 1 July 2022, they are due to start P1 in September 2026 as they will be of Compulsory School Age and you mustapply for a place in a Primary School.

Children born on or between 1 April 2021 and 1 July 2021 (inclusive) and children born before 1 April 2021 but with a due date on or after 1 April 2021 whose parents deferred their admission to primary school in September 2025 must also now apply for a place in a Primary School for September 2026.

Children born on or between 1 April 2022 and 1 July 2022 (inclusive) and children born before 1 April 2022 but whose due date was on or after this date may submit a request to defer P1 admission for September 2026. For more information visit ‘Deferral of School Starting Age’ 

Preparatory Departments & Independent Schools

For information on making an application to the Preparatory Department of a Grammar School or to an Independent School, please contact the school directly.

How do I apply?

Online applications will open at 12 noon on Wednesday 7 January 2026 and will close at 12 noon on Wednesday 21 January 2026.

Before starting your child’s application:

• Find schools in your area
• Read the Admissions Criteria
• Check what supporting documentation is required to be uploaded with your application
• List at least four preferences on your application
• Check whether transport assistance will be available for your child. Education Authority Transport Eligibility Checker
• View our step by step Admissions Videos and Guidance

Places are NOT allocated on a first come, first served basis. Schools WILL NOT consider applications until after the closing date.