11+ Music Scholarships
11+ music scholarships are prestigious awards made to talented young musicians at British private schools. A scholarship will often involve a remission in school fees — sometimes up to £50,000 per year — and free music lessons in up to two instruments.
Prelude Education is Britain’s only music-specialist scholarship advisory service and we offer a variety of bespoke support to parents help their children achieve music scholarships.
What are 11+ music scholarships?
11+ music scholarships are awards offered to talented young musicians to attend an independent schools, private schools or grammar schools.
These scholarships provide financial assistance and often include access to high-quality music education and performance opportunities.
What grade do you need for an 11+ music scholarship?
To be considered for an 11+ music scholarship, students must typically be at least Grade 5 standard and demonstrate a high level of proficiency on their chosen instrument or in vocal performance, or ideally both. They may also be required to take a written exam, provide references, and undergo an audition or interview process.
We offer
Private lessons from specialist music scholarship teachers
Consultations with Ralph Allwood MBE
Mock scholarship auditions
Personalised shortlist of scholarships suited to your child
Year-long bespoke scholarship plan for your child
What is the standard expected for 11+ music scholarship applicants?
Schools that offer 11+ music scholarships have varying requirements and also assess different areas. In general, however, successful 11+ music scholarship applicants will be expected to:
Play at least two instruments, or voice and one instrument
Attained at least Grade 5 standard in their principal instrument. Note, students do not need to have taken music exams (e.g. ABRSM) but must be able to play to at least the level of Grade 5
Complete an audition
Some schools, however, have further requirements.
Both the St Paul’s School 11+ music scholarship and the King's College School Wimbledon 11+ music scholarship, for instance, require students to undergo a short interview process.
What is the best way to prepare for an 11+ music scholarship?
Competition for music scholarships at top private schools can be fierce, with many talented students vying for a limited number of scholarship spots.
It's important to start preparing early — we recommend two years — and to work with an experienced and knowledgeable music teacher.
As Britain’s only music-specialist scholarship advisory service, we have supported over 400+ students to achieve music scholarships and offer a range of services to support children to achieve scholarships at their first choice schools.
Parent looking for more music scholarship advice? get in touch today
-
![Girl learning piano in a piano lesson]()
Ultimate Guide to Music Scholarships
Interested in how to best prepare your child for a music scholarship? Read the best Ultimate Guide to Music Scholarships written by music scholarship experts.
-
![Girl practicing the harp]()
Music Scholarship Advisory Services
Looking for further support in how to achieve a music scholarship? Read more about our Scholarship Advisory Services for 11+, 13+ and 16+ music scholarships
-
![Ex-Eton College Music Director]()
Watch Ralph Allwood Discuss Scholarships
Watch Ralph Allwood MBE, Director of Music at Eton College for 26 years, discuss 6 tips of how to get a music scholarship to British private and independent schools.
-
![Image of Eton College]()
Free Music Scholarship Resources
These resources have been created by our music scholarship experts, including by an ex-Director of Music at Eton College and a teacher at Westminster School
