Frequently Asked Questions

A bursary is a means-tested financial award based on a family’s ability to afford the fees. A scholarship is awarded in recognition of the child’s ability (academic, art, design, drama, music or sport).

You will need to fill in a Financial Circumstances Form in the first instance. Please read through the admissions process for more information or contact the Admissions Office.

Marlborough is committed to ensuring that young people with potential are able to attend the College, regardless of their financial means. Any family feels they cannot afford to pay the fees in full can apply for financial support via our bursary programme. You will need to fill in a Financial Circumstances Form in the first instance. Please read through the admissions process  for more information or contact the Admissions Office.

The academic criteria for bursary pupils are the same as those for all pupils applying to Marlborough College.

Bursary applications should be submitted by 1st July in the academic year prior to that in which your child is being assessed (this is normally Year 6 or 7 for Shell entry or Year 11 for Lower Sixth entry). Therefore, it is advisable to contact the Admissions by May to request the Financial Circumstances form you will be asked to complete. You will also be required to submit supporting documentation. Later applications may be considered if funds are still available. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information.

We recognise that moving into a full boarding independent school environment will be a significant change for many of our bursary pupils. To ease their transition and onward journey with us, we offer a comprehensive package of pastoral, emotional, logistical and academic support.

In addition to their vital relationships with their Housemaster or Housemistress, Resident House Tutor, Dame (matron) and Academic Tutor, bursary pupils benefit from a pupil Bursary Mentor, a young person who has already made the same journey and can provide practical and empathetic advice. For bursary pupils in the Sixth Form, access is given to an Old Marlburian (former pupil) mentor who can provide advice and support on life after leaving the College.

Yes, although this will depend on individual circumstances. Following the means-testing process we will let you know if your bursary will include funds for extras like IT equipment, academic trips, travel costs and uniform. However, this additional support will only be considered for those who are awarded a full bursary of 100% of the fees.