The Prep School

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+ 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.

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 (11+ and 13+ only).

Drama scholarships

Committed young actors are encouraged to apply for a drama scholarship, whatever their range of experience. This programme develops skills as both individual and ensemble performers while giving pupils a glimpse into life as a working theatre professional.

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.

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 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

11+ Academic

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Art

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Design Technology

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Drama

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Music

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Performing Arts

Apply by 7th December 2026

11+ Sport

Apply by 7th December 2026

Assessment dates

11+ Academic

Monday 11th January 2027

11+ Art

(TBC)

11+ Design Technology

(TBC)

11+ Drama

(TBC)

11+ Music

(TBC)

11+ Performing Arts

(TBC)

11+ Sport

Friday 15th January 2027

Scholarship decision

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

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

Our Scholarship programme runs alongside the means-tested bursary programme. Those receiving a scholarship will be able to apply for a bursary if they need assistance in paying school fees. Please note that all bursary and scholarship applications need to be submitted by the closing dates provided on our website.

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.

Come and see for yourself

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