#harry potter world building

So I know it’s usually assumed by the fandom that you’re automatically enrolled in whatever wizarding school is closest to you, but I don’t think this holds up.

Draco Malfoy at one point mentions that his parents had discussed which school to send him to, which confirms that the parents of students do have a choice.

I won’t go into authorial intent, but with only 40 students a year Hogwarts can’t even be the only British option.

The acceptance letter Harry received requires a response to let them know you’ll be attending, which implies you can turn down your acceptance.

Normal students also have a descion making window between receiving their Hogwarts letter and the reply deadline, which wouldn’t be necessary if there are no options to discuss.

Harry’s lack of options is an exception. Why exactly this is remains up for debate- it seems to be implied throughout the books that the Dursleys aren’t Harry’s full legal gaurdians, and their input doesn’t seem to be required for major decisions.

I also think it’s relevant that Harry is supposed to know about the wizarding world- Hagrid is shocked to learn that Harry doesn’t, and calls it a “scandal”. It stands to reason that because of this Harry missed out on any introduction that muggle raised students would normally receive, and we can only speculate how that’s done.

I think what is likely under normal circumstances is the local wizarding government informs muggleborn families of the child’s magic and explains their education options, and then the families apply to various schools and choose from one that accepts the child.

My guess would be that muggle born students are introduced early enough to accommodate for the speed of muggle post and travel at least as far back as when the ministry of magic was created (1707) but probably even earlier.