To me, don't loose hope. Of course apply as early as Jan will be good but doesn't guarantee a place. I have applied since Jan 2011 to a preferred school and have no news till now. When I finally arrived in Doha months later, I have no choice but to pray & apply for alternative school. Thank God that I manage to get a school for my kids. So I believe that you will get a school for your kids when you arrive. Prob not your 1st choice but yr 2nd or 3rd choice. You can move them later.