Independent schools-bursary

[SweetsAndChocolates]

Am thinking about independent school for DS. It would be for entry September 2022 (deadline for applicants 7th Jan), just before entrance exam.

Has done 11+ for grammar and has done well enough to be able to pop it on CAF form, however we are out of catchment so taking into consideration how oversubscribed the school will be, may not get a place.

On the registration form for independent school, it asks if you'd would need bursary. This may sound ridiculous, but would that make the school less likely to take child on? For the school, it would be better to fill spaces with parents who can pay full fees I'm guessing.

Thank you

No, it shouldn’t disadvantage you at the application stage. They mention bursaries because they have money allotted for that purpose - and ‘need’ to spend it. They actively want people to apply for them.

Beyond that, it’s helpful for the school to identify likely bursary candidates as soon as possible, so they can make sure parents have all the necessary information and guidance on how to proceed.

It's worth knowing what the bursary requirements are. If you have a household income of £80k or above or significant assets you are unlikely to get a bursary.

They are generally awarded on the basis of performance in the entrance test.

Bursaries are often combined with scholarships so if your DS has a particular skill or strength this would help.

You are relatively late to the process as most schools will have had their open days at this point.

It just triggers the financial assessment process. Even if you don't ultimately qualify or demand exceeds funds available you may be offered a full fee place.