About Funding Assistance

During your studies and beyond, you will likely consider applying for funding at some point - whether for study costs, or to help start a new project or artistic endeavour. Here are some key things that will help you navigate the funding world:

1. Build a list
You should start by compiling lists of funders you want to apply to. Funding wizards are a good place to start, but failing that - google is your friend.

2. Check deadlines and eligibility
Funders will have strict deadlines for applications and usually only meet once or twice a year. Some will also have set criteria i.e. supporting musicians from a particular region. Read their criteria thoroughly before applying.

3. Get in touch
It can be daunting at times, but remember that funders exist to help people and projects - and on the other end of an email address or telephone number is a person. Don't hesitate to pick up the phone and have a chat before making an application, as you might glean some important information on what to include in your application. It's also a good way to make sure you are already in their minds beforehand.

4. Write, edit, and sleep on it
Whether you are filling out an application form or writing something from scratch, give yourself time to re-read it. Make sure you are addressing all the criteria in the form, never use three words when two will do, and remember who is reading it.

5. Don’t leave it too late! You should already be looking for funding for the next academic year towards the end of the first term of the current academic year. Some of the major funding bodies, for example the Countess of Munster Charitable Trust, will open applications in January and close them in February. Be sure to plan well in advance!

Funding wizards will help you identify which sources of funding you may be eligible for. In addition, you will find useful guides to help you make an application, and which offer advice on how to set out your curriculum vitae and covering letter.

6. We are here to help
If you would like someone to read through and check your application once you have written it, please contact edward.keeble@rncm.ac.uk or nick.thompson@rncm.ac.uk or visit the Development Office -  we share an office with Marketing and can be found found on the first floor of the Oxford Road Wing. Please note that whilst we will endeavour to help you where possible, our capacity is sometimes limited.

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For more information on funding available via the college and the Access to Learning scheme please contact Adam Croucher.

Please read: The RNCM receives the kind support of a number of charitable trusts and foundations who donate money to the College to be used for scholarships and bursaries. These organisations have taken the decision to donate directly to the College, rather than to individuals, so they should not be approached by RNCM students. These are:

• South Square Trust

• Stanley Picker Trust

• Ann Driver Trust

• D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust

• The Leverhulme Trust (please note this is not the same as the Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust)

• The Oglesby Charitable Trust

• The Stoller Charitable Trust

• The Helen Rachael Mackaness Charitable Trust

All students who apply for a bursary with the College will automatically be considered for awards from these organisations.