Bursaries: A Guide

The cost of an independent education in the UK varies by school, influenced by factors such as type, reputation, and location. Schools in London and the South, as well as boarding schools, tend to be more expensive.

• Independent day schools: £4,000–£8,000 per term for senior students.
• Boarding schools: Typically £10,000 per term or more.
• Annual costs: From £12,000 for day schools and £30,000 for boarding schools.

A bursary is a financial grant awarded to students who meet specific criteria (e.g., high academic achievement) but whose families cannot afford the fees. Unlike loans, bursaries do not need to be repaid.

Many private schools offer bursaries to create a diverse student body and ensure talented students have access to their education. According to the Independent Schools Council (ISC), about one in three children in participating schools receive some form of financial aid.

Bursaries are typically awarded only to students who meet the school's admissions criteria, which may include:

• Performance in entrance exams and interviews (for selective schools)
• Suitability for the school’s educational environment
• Proximity to the school
• Having a sibling already enrolled (in some cases)

The bursary assessment process runs parallel to the school admissions process, and the outcomes of both can be interconnected.

Means-Tested Bursaries

These bursaries are based on family income and financial circumstances.

• Operate on a sliding scale—families with lower incomes receive higher discounts.
• Some schools offer full (100%) bursaries to families with the lowest incomes.
• Additional support may cover registration fees, deposits, uniforms, books, school trips, and meals (sometimes called a "110% bursary" or "assisted place").
• Bursaries are reviewed annually; changes in financial circumstances may affect eligibility.

Hardship Funds

These funds provide temporary assistance to families facing unexpected financial difficulties after their child has started at the school. Reasons may include job loss, illness, or the death of a parent.

• Scholarships are merit-based, awarded for excellence in academics, arts, sports, or other fields. Some offer financial benefits (usually covering up to 10% of fees), while others provide only recognition.
• Bursaries are need-based and awarded based on family income.
• Students can apply for both a scholarship and a bursary separately, but typically only one scholarship at a time.
• Scholarships and bursaries are reassessed annually.

1. Obtain an Application Form
   • Some schools provide a bursary request option on their registration form.
   • Others require direct contact with the bursar or have forms available on their website.
2. Submit the Application
   • Some schools use third-party companies to handle applications, while others manage the process internally.
   • All applications are treated confidentially.

The assessment typically has two stages:

1. Initial Review – An evaluation of your financial documents.
2. Detailed Investigation – Additional documentation, credit checks, and possibly a home visit.

Schools calculate "relevant income" (gross household income minus £2,000–£3,000 per dependent child) to determine eligibility. Additional factors include:

• Property ownership (having multiple properties may reduce eligibility).
• Savings and investments.
• Family financial contributions (e.g., from grandparents).
• Lifestyle choices (e.g., frequent holidays, expensive cars, large homes in costly areas).

Required Documents:

• Proof of identity and address.
• 12 months of bank statements (including savings and ISAs).
• Details of investments, assets, and properties.
• Evidence of income (payslips, P60s, company accounts).
• Mortgage or rental agreements.
• Financial information from both parents (if divorced).

Autumn Term (Year 6)

• Register with the school and request a bursary application form.
• Confirm the application deadline.
• Gather financial documents.

October–January (Year 6)

• School entrance exams and interviews.
• Submit bursary application and supporting documents.
• Assessment process, including possible home visits.

February (Year 6)

• School place offers and bursary decisions are communicated.

March (Year 6)

• Accept or decline the school place and bursary offer.

Annual Review

• Bursary eligibility is reassessed and adjusted if needed.

Each school has different income assessment criteria. Some set fixed income limits, while others assess applications individually.

General Guidelines:

• Families earning over £100,000 are unlikely to qualify.
• Families earning around £70,000 may receive partial fee assistance.
• Families earning under £20,000 may be eligible for a full bursary.

Some schools publish income criteria or offer bursary calculators online. If not, contact the school directly.

If your application progresses, the school may arrange a home visit or virtual meeting. This allows them to:

• Meet your family.
• Gain a clearer understanding of your financial situation.
• Clarify any questions about your application.

They may request additional documents in advance, and the visit ensures a fair assessment.

If You Have a Specific School in Mind

• Check the school's website for financial assistance options.
• Look for the school’s bursary and fee policies to understand covered costs and additional charges.
• Contact the school's admissions team for further guidance.

If You Haven’t Chosen a School Yet

• Use the Independent Schools Council website to search for schools offering financial assistance.
• The London Fee Assistance Consortium lists schools providing free or subsidised places in London.
• Educational Grants Directory provides information on trusts offering financial aid based on factors like income, occupation, or background.

By exploring these resources, you can find the right school and bursary to support your child’s education.