5 Magic Schools to Attend If You Didn’t Get Into Hogwarts

By Zakiya Jamal

So you didn’t get into Hogwarts. I get it. I’ve been there. Thankfully, even if Hogwarts didn’t have the foresight to send you an acceptance letter there are other magical schools that may be more welcoming. Here are just a few that you could send your application to.

The Osthorne Academy of Young Mages (Magic for Liars by Sarah Gailey)

Full disclosure, this school isn’t exactly safe. Someone was killed here and it wasn’t pretty. And they hired a non-magical and wildly cynical detective to solve it.

Then again, Hogwarts had a giant snake living in its basement that could literally kill people by looking at them, so what’s a little danger along with your education?

Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy (The Magicians by Lev Grossman)

Some people consider college to be a magical experience, but at Brakebills College it’s a literal fact. However, if you think you’ll just be casting spells and having keg parties all day, you’ve got another thing coming. Magic isn’t easy and at the college level, it’s even harder.

Imperial University of Carthak (The Tortall Series by Tamora Pierce)

As one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of learning in the world, it shouldn’t be surprising that the emperors of Carthak have attended the school for generations. That said, you don’t have to be an emperor to attend the school, you just have to have the Gift and know how to use it well.

The School of Magic on Roke Island (The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. LeGuin)

Don’t try to ask for directions to the School of Magic because you won’t get any. The only way to get to the school is if you find it yourself and once you do that you’ll also need to know your true name. If you can’t do both of these things, I regret to inform you this isn’t the school for you, but if you succeed you’ll receive an unparalleled magical education. Or some childhood trauma. Who’s to say?

Watford School of Magicks (Carry On by Rainbow Rowell)

If you’re looking for a little less murder at your magic school, Watford School of Magicks is right for you. Though there are vampires, ghosts, and a monster or two you’ll find Watford is filled with more fun and hijinks than your typical magical boarding school. Besides, taking down the Insidious Humdrum is the chosen one’s job. You can probably just relax.

Armedius Academy (The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson)

In case you’re unaware (it’s okay, most Muggles are), Rithmatists have the ability to infuse life into two-dimensional figures known as Chalklings. They are our only defense against the Wild Chalklings, so if you’re lucky enough to have this power it’s imperative you attend Armedius Academy to hone your skills. Please, we’re depending on you.