Why Cheltenham College scholarships and bursaries matter

Cheltenham College is a prestigious co‑educational boarding school in Gloucestershire with fees exceeding £45,000 per year. Cheltenham offers comprehensive scholarship and bursary programmes enabling talented students from all backgrounds to attend.

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1. Types of scholarships and bursaries at Cheltenham

Cheltenham offers:

• Academic Scholarships – for outstanding academic ability, typically 10–50% fee reduction.
• Music Scholarships – for exceptional musicians, usually 10–50% fee reduction plus free music tuition.
• Art Scholarships – for talented artists, typically 10–30% fee reduction.
• Sports Scholarships – for outstanding athletes, usually 10–25% fee reduction.
• Means‑tested bursaries – can cover up to 100% of fees based on financial need.
• Combined awards – scholarship + bursary packages.

Detailed scholarship and bursary information

Academic Scholarships:

• Coverage: Typically 10–50% of fees.
• Entry points: 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Sixth Form) entry.
• Eligibility: Outstanding performance in entrance examinations.
• Competition: Highly competitive.
• Deadlines: Applications typically autumn/winter.
• Renewal: Usually continue through to A Level.

Music Scholarships:

• Coverage: Typically 10–50% of fees, plus free music tuition.
• Entry points: 13+ and 16+ entry.
• Eligibility: Exceptional musical ability, usually Grade 8 or equivalent.

Art Scholarships:

• Coverage: Usually 10–30% fee reduction.
• Entry points: 13+ and 16+ entry.

Sports Scholarships:

• Coverage: Typically 10–25% fee reduction.
• Eligibility: Exceptional ability in one or more sports.

Means‑tested bursaries:

• Coverage: Can cover up to 100% of fees based on financial need.
• Eligibility: Demonstrated financial need through comprehensive means‑testing.

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2. Typical percentage of fees covered

• Academic Scholarships: 10–50% of fees.
• Music Scholarships: 10–50% of fees plus free music tuition.
• Art Scholarships: 10–30% of fees.
• Sports Scholarships: 10–25% of fees.
• Bursaries: 10–100% of fees, with many covering 50–100%.
• Combined awards: Can cover up to 100% of total fees.

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3. Eligibility, competition and what Cheltenham looks for

Academic requirements:

• Exceptional performance in entrance examinations.
• Excellent school reports and intellectual curiosity.

Competition levels:

• Academic Scholarships: Highly competitive.
• Music/Art/Sports Scholarships: Competitive; based on exceptional talent.
• Bursaries: Competitive but Cheltenham has substantial bursary funds.

What Cheltenham values:

• Academic excellence and intellectual engagement.
• Character, leadership and contribution to school community.
• Co‑curricular talents and interests.

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4. Application process and timelines

Key timelines:

• Registration: Usually 18–24 months before intended entry.
• Entrance examinations: 13+ exams typically in January; 16+ exams in November.
• Scholarship applications: Usually autumn/winter.
• Bursary applications: Typically autumn/winter.

Application process:

1. Register interest and attend open days.
2. Complete admissions application.
3. Apply for scholarships and bursaries.
4. Sit entrance examinations.
5. Attend interviews.
6. Receive offers (typically early calendar year).

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5. Duration and renewal

• Scholarships usually continue through to A Level, subject to maintaining standards.
• Bursaries reviewed annually but typically continue if need persists.
• Renewal depends on academic performance, behaviour and continued financial need.

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How Tutopiya helps students aiming for Cheltenham scholarships

Tutopiya supports students by:

• Preparing for entrance examinations – intensive support for 13+ and 16+ entrance tests.
• Building academic excellence – strengthening performance in core subjects.
• Developing specialist skills – supporting music, art, sport and academic development.
• Exam technique – helping students perform under pressure.

If your child is aiming for a scholarship or bursary at Cheltenham College, Tutopiya can help them build the academic excellence needed to succeed.