The key difference is that a bursary is means-tested and a scholarship isn’t.  The GDST offers bursaries so that a GDST education is accessible to the best and the brightest girls, including those who are not in a position to pay full fees. See the link to the GDST Bursary information above for more information.

All bursaries are means-tested and their value is related to the income and financial resources of the pupil’s family. Bursaries can range from 30% up to a maximum of the full published fees. Bursary candidates must meet the same academic standards in our entrance assessments as other candidates to whom we offer places.

Scholarships are awarded on merit, irrespective of financial means. Offers are made based upon performance in the entrance examinations or audition for Year 7, or in the case of Sixth Form scholarships for outstanding ability demonstrated in individual subjects and disciplines. A Scholarship can be combined with a bursary where there is financial need.

Bursaries are available at Trust schools on the following basis:

• They are only awarded to girls aged 11 or over to help finance their secondary education. Bursaries are awarded on entry to Year 7 or on direct entry into the Sixth Form. Each school has a cash-limited budget each year and so inevitably awards cannot be made to all those who qualify on academic grounds
• Bursaries are only normally made available to girls whose parents have been resident in the EU for the two years prior to a bursary application being made.
• Bursaries may be withdrawn at the discretion of the Headmistress, in the event of unsatisfactory work or conduct. This action will only occur as the culmination of a process of communication and guidance between the school and home

Indicate on the Registration form that you wish to apply for financial support. The Registration form must be submitted by noon on 1 November 2023. 

Once the Registration has been received you will be sent a link to the online GDST Bursary application system. For Year 7 2024 Entry, the GDST Bursary application system will open in the autumn term of  2023; the bursary application must be completed and submitted before noon on 1 November 2023.

If you need help in completing the form, please contact our Head of Admissions, Mrs Bronagh Preston on [email protected], or the Main GDST Bursary Department on 0207 393 6666, who will be happy to assist you.

For the latest details on the financial eligibility criteria set by GDST please follow this link to the GDST Bursary Information.

After you have completed and submitted the Year 7 Entry Application form, indicating that you would like to apply for a bursary, you will be sent a link to the online GDST Bursary application system. 

For Year 7 2024 Entry, the GDST Bursary application system will open in the autumn term of 2023; the bursary application must be completed and submitted before noon on 1 November 2023.

You will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as P60s, payslips, HMRC self-assessment forms, mortgage statements, council tax bills, or recent benefits paperwork. Original documents are required in the first year of application.