Parents of children who transfer schools next year have three weeks left to apply for school places.
Leicestershire County Council is reminding parents that the October 31 closing date is looming.
Last month, application packs were sent to about 12,500 parents whose children transfer to secondary, high or upper school in autumn term 2013.
The transfer process is not automatic and is the same for a local authority school or a recently-converted academy.
If parents apply late – even if they live next door to the school – their child is unlikely to get a place.
Anyone expressing a preference for a non-catchment school is urged to also apply for a place at their child's catchment school.
Councillor Ivan Ould, the county council's cabinet member for the children and young people's service, said: "It is very important all parents apply on time to give their children the best possible chance of being offered a place.
"Applying online is easy, cost-effective and secure and by reducing stationery and postage costs, it also saves the council money.
"We want as many parents as possible to obtain their first choice of school, so would urge them not to be late."
Online applicants will receive an email acknowledging receipt and be able to view the decision on March 1. Parents can also apply by post if they wish.
For more information, call 0116 305 6684, or see:
www.leics.gov.uk/admissions
