Gordonstoun operates a policy of open access, committed to educating young people regardless of nationality, background or financial resources. The School therefore encourages applications whether for scholarships or places from any young person who is capable of benefiting from a Gordonstoun education and who is committed to enhancing the life of the community.
In this context the School has an enviable record of providing places to boys and girls who would not otherwise be able to enjoy the benefits of an independent school. To achieve this Gordonstoun uses its own resources, draws on designated Scholarship funds held by the Gordonstoun Foundation and is extremely successful in attracting funding from external trusts, including The Rank Foundation, The Ogden Trust and The Palgrave Brown Foundation.
In the academic year 2007/2008 Gordonstoun is supporting 16 students with 100% fee awards; 6 of these funded exclusively by the School and 10 have their free places provided jointly by the School with some assistance from external bodies. In addition, a further 34 students have fee reductions of 50% or more, 32 provided by the School itself and 2 by the School with external assistance.
Of a total roll of 600 at the start of the academic year 2007/2008, financial assistance is provided to 163 students by the School, and to 15 by Gordonstoun Foundation and associated charities. The cost to the School is £1,203,000 in the current academic year.
Scholarships are available at three entry levels:
Scholarships are not normally available for those entering the School at Year 10 level or for those already in Year 12.
How much are scholarships for?
Students applying for scholarships and grants can receive funding up to 100% of the full fee level. However no more than 10% is ever awarded purely on academic, or other specific, merit. Anything in excess of this has to be based on means and all applications are rigorously scrutinised. The parents of those who achieve a 10% Scholarship are asked to release this to another candidate if they do not require the support.
A student's continued entitlement to a scholarship depends on his or her continued good progress.
Other awards
Sons and daughters of Royal Navy or Merchant Navy personnel, particularly submariners, may be able to apply for an award (if they do not already receive the Forces Boarding allowance).
Awards are also available to residents of Kenya, Wales, Glasgow, and the Channel Islands. Children of fishing families from the former county of Banff may be eligible to apply for the William F Wood Scholarship. All of these awards are based on residency criteria and financial need.