Europe

.sch.uk: requirements and registry information

.sch.uk is Nominet’s UK schools domain zone. Eligible UK schools (including academies and nursery schools) can use it for websites and school email in the format schoolname.area.sch.uk.

ccTLDUnited KingdomInformation Updated: 2026-09-04
At a glance

Registration details

Extension typeccTLD
Associated country or territoryUnited Kingdom
RegistryNominet
Naming formatschoolname.area.sch.uk
Registration lengthConfirmed with Nominet / chosen registrar
Private RegistrationConfirmed during order review
Local presence serviceNot applicable for standard school registrations
Before checkout

Registration requirements

Use accurate and current information. The registry may ask SoxDomains to confirm supporting details.

Who can register a .sch.uk domain?

UK schools that do not already hold a .sch.uk name are eligible, including academies and nursery schools. Eligible school consortia may also apply via the local authority or lead school.

What naming format is required?

Names must follow schoolname.area.sch.uk using Nominet’s geographical area list (for example cherryorchardfirst.worcs.sch.uk).

What documents are required?

A signed request on school or controlling-authority letterheaded paper must include: school name; ID number (DFE number); postal address; contact name; contact email; preferred domain name; registrar IPS tag; and the signatory’s full name and job title.

How is the application submitted?

Applications are processed through Nominet with a Nominet-accredited registrar. Scanned documentation may be emailed to nominet@nominet.uk, or posted to Nominet Customer Services in Oxford. Northern Ireland ni.sch.uk names follow the Education Authority Northern Ireland / CLASS process instead.

Helpful answers

Common questions

What can I use a .sch.uk domain for?

A .sch.uk domain can be used for a school website and school email, helping identify the school to visitors and recipients.

Who can register a .sch.uk domain?

UK schools (including academies and nursery schools) that do not already hold a .sch.uk domain. School consortia for centralised teaching or IT services may also apply through the local authority or lead school.

Can I use .sch.uk for a website and professional email?

Yes. After Nominet registers the name against your chosen registrar’s IPS tag, point DNS to your preferred website and email providers.

What should I prepare before ordering .sch.uk?

Confirm your area code from Nominet’s schools area list, choose an available schoolname.area.sch.uk name, select a Nominet-accredited registrar and its IPS tag, and prepare a signed letterheaded request with school name, DFE/ID number, postal address, contacts, preferred domain, and IPS tag.

Are there renewal fees for .sch.uk?

Per Nominet’s current Schools Domain Name Rules, .sch.uk domains are not currently subject to a Nominet renewal fee. Nominet invoices a registration fee of £3.90 + VAT for new or replacement names. Registrar DNS or control-panel packages may still charge separately.

Can I transfer an existing .sch.uk domain?

Yes, by moving the domain to another registrar’s IPS tag after Nominet processes the change. School eligibility still applies. Replacing an existing school name includes a three-month cutover before the old name is cancelled.

How long does .sch.uk registration take?

Timing depends on Nominet’s review of the signed letterheaded request, registrar setup, and payment of the Nominet invoice. It is not an instant online checkout for most schools.

Is WHOIS Privacy available for .sch.uk?

Privacy availability depends on Nominet and registrar policy and should be confirmed during order review.

What happens when a .sch.uk domain expires?

Nominet does not currently charge a renewal fee for .sch.uk. If a school closes or no longer exists, Nominet may cancel the domain after notice under Nominet’s registrant terms.

Who manages this extension

Registry information

Registry: Nominet

Ready to continue?

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