is it possible to ask 11+ independent school to extend the acceptance deadline?

[coldpotato]

I have circumstances where it is tricky to make decision by 2nd March.
Can I ask the school to extend acceptance deadline?

Very unlikely, the payment of the deposit is a legal transaction.

Lots of people are in the same boat. If you don’t accept in time there are others who will. Unless it’s very undersubscribed you have no choice. Can’t tell you how much I’ve spent in unused education deposits over the years: you basically have to pay to preserve the option of going there.

You can ask but don't expect. Deposits are not that large in the whole scheme of things. It depends if it is a very popular school with a wait list or not.

There's nothing to stop you asking......

I suspect that in most cases they'll refuse. If you were saying something like you are moving to Australia if you get a visa and won't hear for another 10 days (if that or something similarly unusual we're the case) you might get lucky with some schools.

You could ask but be prepared for a no or for any funding offer to be withdrawn if you do miss the original deadline. Many candidates will be waiting for state school offers. Can you not do your homework now?

You can ask, but unless the reason is truly exceptional, expect the answer 'no' (exceptional being something like parent incommunicado on military deployment, significant compassionate grounds (ITU, end of life).

They set the deadlines ahead of state school offers on purpose, and also know the deadlines for all other nearby schools; so if you are simply hoping to hedge, it won't work. This is the time when schools need you to commit, and they want their numbers settled.

If I accept and withdraw befire the beginning of summer term, will I only lose deposit or 1 terms fee as well?

You need to read the contract when they offer you a place. Most schools require a terms notice meaning you'd lose the deposit and the first terms fees.

Depends totally on the school. Local schools here will do that, but they are not over subscribed

Agree you need to check the terms and conditions to assess your liabilities. Losing one term's fees may be worth it longer term if you have a good state school option. However if all you are asking is to hedge your bets and the school is popular expect a no.

Agreed, check the T's and C's - you shouldn't lose 1 term's fees if you give notice before end of Easter holidays but every school is different.