Why Sri Lankan families are looking at international school scholarships

Colombo and other Sri Lankan cities have a mix of international and private schools offering Cambridge, Edexcel and IB programmes. Fees in secondary and pre‑university years can be high relative to local incomes, so many families rely on academic scholarships or fee concessions.

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1. Scholarship and concession types

• Academic scholarships for high performance in O Levels/IGCSE and school exams.
• AS/A Level or IB scholarships for strong applicants entering senior years.
• Fee reductions or concessions for families with financial difficulties.
• Limited talent scholarships in sport or arts at some schools.

Examples of Sri Lankan schools with scholarship programmes

Colombo:

• Colombo International School – Offers academic scholarships, typically 10–40% fee reduction. Applications usually November–January for the following academic year. Also offers sibling discounts (typically 5–10% per additional child).
• Overseas School of Colombo – Academic excellence scholarships available, typically 10–35% of tuition. Applications often due October–December.
• British School in Colombo – Merit scholarships, usually 10–30% coverage. Applications typically November–January.
• Gateway College – Academic scholarships typically 10–35% fee reduction. Applications often October–December.

Kandy:

• Trinity College Kandy – Academic excellence scholarships, typically 10–30% of fees. Applications usually November–January.
• Hillwood College – Merit scholarships available, usually 10–25% coverage.

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2. Typical fee coverage

Based on the schools listed above, typical coverage ranges are:

• Academic scholarships: 10–40% of tuition, with higher percentages for exceptional candidates.
• Bursaries: Partial relief based on financial need.

Full‑fee scholarships are rare and highly competitive.

While details are school‑specific, typical ranges are:

• Academic merit: 10–40% tuition discount.
• Senior‑school awards: 20–50% for top students.
• Concessions: partial relief based on financial assessment.

Other charges (exams, transport, activities) are usually not fully covered.

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3. Eligibility and competition

Schools typically assess:

• Strong academic records and exam performance.
• Character and contribution to school life.
• For bursaries: evidence of financial need.
• For sporting/talent scholarships: evidence of high‑level performance (competition results, portfolios, graded exams, coach references).

Competition levels:

• Premium schools receive many applications; competition is strong (see school examples above for specific requirements).
• Bursaries are competitive and require demonstrated financial need.
• Sporting scholarships are limited and often require national‑level representation or equivalent achievement.

Scholarship spaces are limited, so expect competitive odds at well‑known schools.

Schools look for:

• Consistent good grades and strong teacher references.
• Positive behaviour and attendance records.
• Clear evidence of financial need for concessions.

Scholarship budgets are limited; expect competition in top Colombo schools.

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4. Application process and timelines

Typical steps:

1. Check the scholarship/concession policy on each school’s website.
2. Prepare report cards, exam certificates and references.
3. Complete forms and submit before deadlines (often early in the calendar year for the following academic year).
4. Sit any required tests and attend interviews.

Planning at least one year ahead is wise.

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5. Duration and renewal

• Most awards are valid for one year or a specific key stage (e.g. O Levels or A Levels).
• Renewals depend on academic performance, conduct and ongoing need.

Families should always clarify how often the scholarship is reviewed.

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How Tutopiya helps Sri Lankan families

Tutopiya supports students in Sri Lanka by:

• Strengthening performance in IGCSE/O Levels and A Levels with targeted online tutoring.
• Helping students build the grade profile required to compete for scholarships.
• Linking school‑level scholarship planning to future university options locally and abroad.

If you’re exploring scholarships in Sri Lankan international schools, Tutopiya can help your child hit and maintain the academic standards schools expect.