Scholarships and bursaries

At Clifton College, there is no one particular type of pupil that succeeds. The range of scholarship opportunities available promotes the development of emerging talents, and encourages a higher level of achievement in the pupil’s dedicated focus area.

11+, 13+ and 16+ scholarships on offer

Clifton College offers pupils a unique opportunity to achieve distinction and personal excellence through the scholarships programme. Each year, we offer a number of scholarships to pupils with the potential to excel in their chosen field.

Academic scholarships

Our academic scholarships celebrate pupils who demonstrate outstanding academic potential. These awards support pupils who show a passion for learning and consistently excel in their studies.

Art scholarships

For pupils with a flair for the arts, our art scholarships offer talented individuals the chance to enhance their development through access to specialist teaching, workshops, and facilities (13+ and 16+ only).

Design Technology scholarships

Design and technology scholarships are offered to pupils who have genuine passion for the creative process and an interest in the design and development of products. Candidates will demonstrate considerable natural ability and have begun to reach high standards of proficiency in their creative work, both in technique and in the development of ideas (13+ only).

Drama scholarships

For passionate young performers with a flair for storytelling and character work, our drama scholarship hones the craft of acting through intensive training in voice, movement, and stage technique. Scholars develop as both solo and ensemble artists, gaining insight into the professional world of theatre and building the confidence to lead on stage and beyond.

Music scholarships

Our music scholarships are designed for talented young musicians who have proficiency in two disciplines, either two instruments, or one instrument and voice. Music Scholars will receive two free music lessons a week from specialists in their chosen instrument(s) and have every opportunity to perform both as soloists and in ensembles.

Performing Arts scholarships

This new scholarship celebrates dynamic performers who thrive at the intersection of music, movement, and drama. Designed for those with talent in musical theatre and/or dance, the programme nurtures skills through specialist coaching, performance opportunities, and creative development. Scholars may explore choreography, vocal technique, and characterisation, preparing them for the vibrant demands of contemporary stage performance (13+ and 16+ only).

Sport scholarships

Our sport scholarships are offered to pupils who show exceptional talent in team sports and who demonstrate the athletic ability to excel. Pupils enter the beginning of the Performance Sports Programme (PSP), which offers access to strength and conditioning, in house sports physiotherapy and professional sports specific coaching as they move through the programme.

Scholarship enrichment programme

Scholarship journey

Applying for a scholarship

Register your interest
Contact the admissions team about applying for a scholarship.
Submit your application
Most scholarships require a written testimonial from the pupil about why they would like to apply for that specific scholarship.

Application deadlines

Academic

11+ apply by 8th December 2025
13+ apply by 17th November 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Art

13+ apply by 17th November 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Design Technology

13+ apply by 17th November 2025

Drama

11+ apply by 8th December 2025
13+ apply by 17th November 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Music

11+ apply by 8th December 2025
13+ apply by 17th November 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Performing Arts

13+ apply by 17th November 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Sport

11+ apply by 8th December 2025
13+ apply by 27th October 2025
16+ apply by 27th October 2025

Assessment dates

Academic

11+ Monday 12th January 2026
13+ Wednesday 14th January 2026
16+ Friday 21st November 2025

Art

13+ Wednesday 28th January 2026
16+ Monday 24th November 2025

Design Technology

13+ Wednesday 28th January 2026

Drama

11+ Monday 12th January 2026
13+ Wednesday 21st January 2026
16+ Tuesday 25th November 2025

Music

11+ Monday 12th January 2026
13+ Wednesday 21st January 2026
16+ Tuesday 25th November 2025

Performing Arts

13+ January 2026 (TBC)
16+ November 2025 (TBC)

Sport

11+ Friday 16th January 2026
13+ Monday 24th November 2025
16+ Thursday 20th November 2025

Scholarship decision

Scholarship Offer
The Admissions team will contact you with the outcome of the scholarship process.

Meet one of our sport scholars

Bursaries on offer

Means-tested bursaries are available to pupils who have been successful in securing a place on one of our scholarship programmes. Bursaries are awarded based on financial need and are designed to ensure that a Clifton College education is accessible to talented pupils from all walks of life.

How to apply for a bursary

The bursary application process is handled confidentially and is administered on our behalf by Bursary Assessment Associates, an independent company. This is a means tested process which looks to consider each family’s circumstances and the affordability of school fees. To apply for a bursary, please contact our Admissions team who will guide you through the process and provide further information on eligibility.

HM Forces bursary

We offer an exclusive package for military families

Clifton College has a rich and established heritage with the British Armed Forces and the families that serve within it. For 150 years our welcoming House staff have been supporting children with the Forces lifestyle.

Find out more

Explore our Schools

Pre-Prep School

Preschool - Year 3

Prep School

Year 4 - Year 8

Upper School

Year 9 - Year 13