Many parents have been asking how the admission process works for ATS (Association of Trust Schools) when it comes to Form One entry. In this article, we break it all down, from timelines to costs to what to expect on the entrance assessment day.
What Are ATS Schools?
ATS stands for the Association of Trust Schools, a network of leading independent (private) schools in Zimbabwe. These are known for high academic standards, excellent facilities, and holistic education.
Examples of ATS secondary schools include:
- Peterhouse Boys and Girls
- St John’s College
- Arundel School
These schools do not use the government EMAP system for Form One entry. They run their separate admission process, and you need to apply early.
When Do You apply for Form One place at ATS Schools Zimbabwe?
Most ATS secondary schools open their Form One application process when your child is in Grade 6, yes, that early!
A few schools will still accept applications in Grade 7, but often only before May. So if your child is currently in Grade 6, now is the time to act.
How the Process Works
1. Open Days & School Visits
Many ATS schools hold Open Days in the second term. This is your chance to visit, ask questions, see the facilities, and collect application forms.
2. Required Documents
When applying, you may need:
- A copy of your child’s birth certificate
- Passport photos
- An application fee, which can range from $50 to 100
3. Entrance Tests / Common Assessment
If your application is accepted, your child will be invited to take the Common Assessment in English, Mathematics, and a CEM computer-based test that assesses cognitive and processing skills, in July of their Grade 7 year
📝 All ATS schools administer the same assessment on the same day, at the same time, across Zimbabwe.
4. Getting a Response
Results are usually out by August, and if your child is successful, you’ll receive an offer letter.
5. Desk Fees / Securing the Place
If offered a place, you’ll be asked to pay a desk fee, often equivalent to the school’s full term fees.
For example, if term fees are $4,000, then the desk fee is $4,000.
This fee is non-refundable and must be paid by the stated deadline to secure your place.
If you delay payment, your child’s spot may be given to the next family on the waiting list.
Important Notes for Form One Applications
• Applications for 2025 Form One entry are now open or about to open at most ATS schools.
• Open Days usually happen in Term 2. Follow the school pages and check OpenClass for dates.
• The entrance exam for ATS schools will take place in July.
Why This Matters
Waiting until your child finishes Grade 7 or relying only on EMAP may leave you with limited options. ATS schools fill up early, and once desk fees are paid, movement is rare.
Final Thoughts
ATS schools are not out of reach. To secure admission into an ATS school, parents should start preparing early, gather information, and thoroughly prepare their children. If you’ve gone through this process before or have questions, feel free to share your experience in the comments. We’re stronger together as a community of informed parents!
Here are some of the schools currently accepting applications for 2026 Grade 1 or Form One:
Primary Schools
Secondary Schools
FAQ's on Form One place at ATS Schools Zimbabwe
Most are in the mid-to-premium range, but offer excellent value for families seeking a holistic, globally competitive education.
Yes, especially for schools in Harare, Mutare, and Bulawayo. Some schools receive hundreds of applications for fewer than 100 places.
Each school handles this differently. Some may place your child on a waiting list or offer a second opportunity. It’s wise to apply to more than one school.
You may also be interested in the following:
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