Scholarships and Bursaries

Scholarships are awarded annually based on entrance examination results and interview results. All candidates who sit the entrance examination (ISEB pre-test) are automatically considered for an academic scholarship. There is no additional scholarship examination. Scholarships are available to internal and external candidates. There are two types of Academic Scholar: a STEM scholar and an English scholar. More than one award of each type may be made annually.

At Year 7 entry, scholarship opportunities exist across the creative and performing arts. Assessment days take place after the entrance examination/ interview and comprise of an opportunity to meet staff and take part in activities designed to inspire and excite potential scholars.

• Selection for a Music Scholarship will be based on candidates holding a Grade 4 qualification in one or more instruments, including vocal.
• Selection for an Art Scholarship, will be based on the production of a portfolio of candidate produced artwork.
• Selection for a Sports Scholarship will require documentary proof, and or, video evidence of sports participation to a high standard.
• Selection for a Drama Scholarship will be based on the performance of a monolog (script will be provided), and a variety of drama skills, including improvisation.

All applicants will be called forward to attend one of our Scholarship Assessment days.

Candidates will be invited back to interview based on the results of the ISEB pre-test as well as performance in the specialist scholarships (Sport, Art and Design, Music, Drama). They will be expected to show how they embody our school values: kindness, authenticity, involvement, curiosity and challenge.

Students looking to join the School in Year 7, either from our own Prep School or from other schools, may be considered for scholarships at Abbot’s Hill. Pupils will be invited to apply for the academic scholarships (English and STEM) if they score particularly highly in the ISEB Pre Tests, which we use for our Year 7 entrance assessments.

On occasion, there may be the opportunity for students entering the School in Year 8 and 9 to be awarded a scholarship. There are currently no scholarships awarded in the Prep School.

For Sport, Art & Design, Music or Drama Scholarships, you will need to complete and return the relevant application form by the published deadline. Academic Scholarships (English and STEM) are by invitation of the Head only following the ISEB assessment.

Yes. Scholarships are awarded on merit and if we feel that there is more than one deserving candidate who meets the high standards expected, the School may make more than one award for a scholarship.

Prospective pupils may apply for more than one scholarship, however, the combined Scholarships may not exceed a maximum of 20% remission of fees.

Scholarships carry a fee reduction of up to a maximum of 25%. Scholars are also eligible to apply for a means-tested Bursary if they meet the criteria. Music and Drama scholarships may also include fee remissions for instrumental and LAMDA lessons.

Bursaries are means-tested financial awards designed to support talented students who would otherwise be unable to access a place at Abbot’s Hill School. These need-based grants ensure that academic or co-curricular potential is not limited by parental financial circumstances.

Scholarships recognize exceptional achievement or promise across different subject areas, and provide a modest financial benefit. For scholarship recipients who require additional support, means-tested funding is available to enhance the award and make attendance more accessible.

Yes. The application for a means-tested bursary should be made at the same time but will be viewed and awarded separately, as this is means-tested financial aid taking into account parental income rather than student ability, and re-applications need to be made each academic year.

As long as the scholarship recipient maintains their level and interest in the scholarship area, participates fully in school life and acts as an ambassador for that department, as well as upholding the school values and expected standards of behaviour, they will keep the scholarship for the full duration of their time at Abbot’s Hill.

Scholarships at Abbot’s Hill usually only apply to school fees although may also include a contribution towards or full payment of specialist lessons eg music or LAMDA classes.