I'm hoping to apply to Berklee College of Music, but the cost is pretty daunting. Could anyone share information on scholarships specifically available for Berklee students?
There is a range of scholarships available for students attending Berklee College of Music, many of them are targeted towards different kinds of students based on their course of study, level of talent, and financial need. In terms of institutional scholarships, Berklee offers four scholarship programs for incoming students: the Berklee Online Celebrity Scholarship, the Berklee City Music College Scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship, and the North America Tour Scholarship. These scholarships are highly competitive and are mainly awarded based on the audition and interview process.
Among these, the Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious, which covers the total cost of tuition, on-campus housing, and the required laptop for four years.
Also, for prospective students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will identify what federal and state financial aid is available to you. Another option is looking for external scholarships. There are a myriad of organizations that offer music scholarships, such as the National Association for Music Education or the Musicians Institute.
Finally, as an applicant, you're automatically considered for merit scholarships based on your audition and interview for admission. So, if there's ever a time to showcase your talent and hard work, it’s then!
Remember that some scholarships are renewable, provided you maintain certain academic standards, while others are one-time awards. It’s crucial you understand the specific terms of each scholarship you're offered or apply for. Good luck with your Berklee application!
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