Music scholarships are offered by most universities to students who have a musical talent. You could play or sing your way to paying off some of your student loan. Some music scholarships pay up to £3,000 a year during your degree, so if you can sing or play a musical instrument it is definitely worth looking in to. What’s more, you do not need to be applying to study music to be eligible.
Remember, this is money that does not need to be paid back. So you might be wondering what’s the catch?
Why do universities offer music scholarships?
Universities like to encourage musical talent among their students, so they can nurture a music community on campus. As part of the scholarship you will be asked to participate in musical performances whilst you are there and you will be paid for it. A nice way to earn a bit of extra money while doing something you enjoy.
There are also some music scholarships which are offered by charities or musical associations to music students who are studying at one of the UK’s music colleges.
How to do I apply for a music scholarship?
In most cases, you will need to have confirmed your place at university before applying for a musical scholarship. Once you have confirmed where you will be studying, then check out what music scholarships that university offers and how to apply. Most music scholarships will have an audition process and there may be specific instruments they are targeting.
The requirements for each will be different. They may be looking for a particular level or grade in music exams or that you have represented your school. Some music scholarships include ongoing tuition and support to nurture your talent further.
Examples of music scholarships
Here is a selection of some of the best music scholarships available, but do look for more on our database.
University of Kent – up to £2,000 a year to new students. Applicants should hold an advanced ABRSM grade, have developed a significant musical profile whilst in school/ college or the local community and appropriate performing experience at county or national level.
University of Exeter – Exeter Cathedral Scholarship: £3,000 a year for Counter-tenors, Tenors and Basses; choral scholars are required at all statutory choral services and rehearsals when the Lay Vicars are singing.
Universities of Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield – Leeds Cathedral Scholarships: up to £1,500 a year for students to either sing, conduct or play the organ for the Cathedral choir.
University of Surrey – Open to organists and singers (sopranos, counter-tenors, altos, tenors and basses). The purpose of the Organ and Choral Scholarships at St Nicolas is to support the work of the choir and maintain the standard of music making in the church.
Royal Holloway – Music Scholarships worth up to £1,500 a year. Scholars are expected to contribute to perform during their time at university.
University of East Anglia – The purpose of the awards is to support musicians of high standard who are willing to contribute significantly to the musical life of the University. The awards are intended for musicians of any instrument or voice and any style or tradition. You will be able to demonstrate an excellent standard of performance to enrich the musical life of the University.
