How to find the right scholarship

Finding the right scholarship may feel daunting at first, but with a thoughtful approach, you can make the process manageable and even empowering. Here’s how you can improve your chances of discovering awards that truly fit your strengths and ambitions:

Start by reflecting on your personal and academic background—your interests, selected field, performance experience, achievements, and ambitions. This helps you zero in on opportunities that match your unique profile.

Research

When researching scholarships, use targeted online searches with phrases related to your course, destination (like “drama undergraduate funding UK”), or your particular circumstances, such as “first-generation arts student grants”. Explore reputable sources: StageScholar.com, university funding pages, and scholarship boards. Don’t forget about local charities or arts organisations, which often advertise opportunities in school bulletins or community groups. School advisors and guidance counsellors can also point you towards options you may have missed.

Tracking deadlines is one of the biggest keys to success. Maintain a list or spreadsheet noting closing dates, eligibility criteria, and required supporting documents for each scholarship you’re interested in. Set reminders—leaving yourself enough time to prepare references, personal statements, or audition materials before the deadline rush.

Requiremetns

Carefully review every application’s requirements, and don’t rule yourself out too quickly. Some criteria might sound rigid but, in practice, are more flexible, and there is often less competition for niche or smaller grants.

Lastly, remember that you can register your interest with StageScholar.com for support throughout the process. The team can help you navigate the search, prepare documents, and meet upcoming deadlines. Staying proactive—by checking back monthly for new awards and keeping all application materials tidy and up to date—maximises your chance of success.

Taking these steps brings clarity and confidence to your scholarship search, so you stand out not just as an applicant, but as an individual ready to seize new creative opportunities.

If you would like support with applications for international performing arts courses, please visit our Contact Us page to get in touch with our team.