Admissions FAQS
When can I apply for a place for my son/daughter in Form 1?
You may apply during the admissions window (Usually first week of October for a three week period). Applications can only be accepted from pupils in 6th class during this period. This is the only period where the school will accept formal applications into Form 1 for the next academic year (following September). Notification about this window will be on our website. If you fill out an expression of interest form for relevant year, you will receive an email notification regarding the admissions window.
If I apply early do I get a place?
No, all applications must be submitted during the admissions window. There are other criteria applied (see admissions policy) but date/time of application is not one.
I submitted an application form before February 1st 2020, what is the process?
Due to a change in the law (Admissions to schools Act 2018), schools can no longer maintain historical waitlists.
All applicants for the academic year 2026 onwards must apply during the admissions window for the relevant year. Even if you have filled out an application form prior to 2020, you must re-apply for the relevant year.
I filled out an expression of interest form after February 1st 2020, what is the process?
By filling out this form you have indicated to us that you would like to be contacted when admissions open for the year your son/daughter is applying for. We will notify you of the dates when you can apply for a place. This does not give you an advantage over anyone else and all applications can only be submitted during the admissions window each year.
What is the difference between an expression of interest form and an application form?
An expression of interest form is registering your contact details only. It is not an application form.
An application form (available on our website) is the only official means of applying for a place. It can only be filled out during the admissions window each year (early October). Each application form is then categorized according to our admissions policy to determine allocation of places.
Do I need to pay a fee to apply?
No. If you are offered a place you will then be asked to pay a 500 euro deposit to accept the place being offered. This is not refunded if you then subsequently choose not to take up the place.
The deposit is credited against the first year fees (200 euro) and the remaining 300 will be returned when your son/daughter completes their Leaving Certificate in Drogheda Grammar School.
Past pupils
Under new rules which come into force for admissions for the 2021/2022 school year, no more than 25 per cent of school places may be set aside for children or grandchildren of past pupils. It rarely, if ever reaches this threshold.
Additional Educational Needs and admissions process
Schools will not be permitted to ask about a child’s academic ability or aptitude as part of the admissions process. Some parents, however, may wish to bring this up in any case to ensure they are satisfied the school has the experience of assisting children with additional educational needs.
Applications for a year other than first year (Post Primary Transfers)
Our application window for Post Primary Transfers opens on 1st March - 30th April 2026. The application form will be available online on the Post Primary Transfers page.