RASM Bursary & Scholarship Schemes

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new Bursary & Scholarship Schemes.

What the Bursary & Scholarship Schemes Cover

Lesson Fees: Full or partial coverage of instrumental or singing tuition fees with our experienced faculty.
Instrument Support: Assistance with the cost of hiring an instrument suitable for your studies.
Ensemble Fees: Funding for participation in music ensembles.
Performance Opportunities: 3 performance platforms during the year, and an annual concert in Woolwich Works.

Who Should Apply?

Eligibility Criteria (UK Applicants)

To be considered for the Royal Arsenal School of Music Bursary & Scholarship Scheme, applicants must meet either the Musical Potential or Financial Need criteria below:

1. Financial Need (Means-Tested Bursary Applications):

Household Income: The applicant must demonstrate a net annual household income of £35,000 or less including benefit payments if applicable.
Residency: Must be a UK national or have settled status and be ordinarily resident in the UK.
Benefit Status: Applicants must generally be eligible for (or in receipt of) means-tested benefits (see documentation required below).
Exceptional Circumstances: If an applicants household income is above the income threshold but they are experiencing significant financial hardship (e.g., debt, rent arrears), they are encouraged to apply anyway with supporting evidence and a detailed statement.
Age: Applicants must be at least 7 years old from the beginning of the academic year (September 1st) in which they are applying for a bursary.

2. Musical Potential (Scholarship Applications):

Offer of Study: Scholarship Candidates must pass an audition at RASM on their principle instrument.
Commitment: Must demonstrate a strong commitment to musical studies and potential for future progress.
Age: Applicants must be aged 4+

Required Supporting Documentation

To assess your application fairly and confidentially, you must submit all of the following documents along with your completed application form.

Bursary applications: Proof of Financial Need (Financial Documentation)

Please provide the following to confirm your eligibility based on financial criteria:

Proof of Income: You must submit one of the following from the last 3 months for all parents/guardians/independent applicant:
- Universal Credit Statement
- Latest P60
- HMRC Tax Calculation (SA302) or latest Tax Return.

Proof of Means-Tested Benefits: A copy of the award notice or letter if you or your family receive means-tested benefits such as Income Support, Income-related ESA, Job Seekers Allowance (Income-based), or the Guaranteed element of Pension Credit.

Proof of Identity/Residency: Copy of a UK Birth Certificate or UK Passport (or Biometric Residence Permit/card for those with settled or refugee status).

Scholarship applications: Proof of Musical Potential

These documents are required to confirm your commitment and musical standing:

Musical References: References from a current musical educator.
Evidence of Exams that may have been taken.

Apply Now:

Applying for a Bursary or a Scholarship at the Royal Arsenal School of Music is a straightforward process. Please follow these three steps:

Step 1: Fill in an application form

If you require support due to a low household income, you must apply for the Bursary Scheme. Click here to fill out the BURSARY application form.

If you are applying to be recognised for exceptional talent, you must apply for the Scholarship Programme. Click here to fill our the SCHOLARSHIP application form.

We recommend reading our Guidance Notes for your chosen application form before you begin to ensure your application is complete.

Step 2: Prepare and Send Your Documents

Once we have received your application form, we will send you an email asking for the relevant documents for us to process the application.

Bursary Applicants: You must supply your current financial proof
Scholarship Applicants: Any proof of examinations that have been passed. Once we have received scholarship applications, we will be in touch to let you know when the next round of scholarship auditions are. Our next intake of scholarship students will be in September 2026. Depending on funding, we will have both half and full bursaries and scholarships available.

Once we have received everything needed we will review all documents and update you with the status of the application. All decisions are final. You will need to fill out another application if your circumstances change. We can only offer spaces we have funding for, so even if you are accepted as a bursary candidate there may be a wait for a space to become available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please fill out our contact form if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is the difference between a Bursary and a Scholarship?

A Bursary is awarded based solely on financial need (means-testing) to help students who would otherwise be unable to attend. A Scholarship is awarded based solely on musical merit and talent, regardless of financial situation.

Can I apply for both a Bursary and a Scholarship?

Yes. Applicants may be considered for a merit-based Scholarship through the audition process and may also apply separately for a needs-based Bursary.

What does the Bursary cover?

The Royal Arsenal School of Music Bursary is primarily intended to cover the cost of tuition fees and essential course-related expenses (e.g., specific music books, instrument hire, or travel for mandatory school performances). The exact amount awarded will be specified in your offer letter.

Do I have to reapply every year?

Yes. Bursaries are awarded for one academic year at a time. Your eligibility will be reassessed annually based on your continued commitment to your studies and updated proof of household income. We will be in touch with current bursary students when the time comes to reassess your financial position.