13+ Art Scholarship

The closing date for application forms and bursary augmentation is Friday 29 January 2027.

Assessment date: Thursday 4 March 2027

If an Art Scholarship is awarded, the pupil will be required to study Art at GCSE and subsequently at A Level or IB Diploma Higher Level.

The 13+ Art Scholarship assessments will be based on an interview with the candidates, evaluation of their portfolio and drawing tasks completed in the Rugby School Art studios. The portfolio should show evidence of self-initiated projects as well as work realised at school and must reflect a good range of media, styles and techniques. The practical exercises will test candidates' ability to use drawing media and work from direct observation, working both independently and under instruction. We are keen to build a family of Art scholars at Rugby who are ambassadors for the subject, who work well with others and who can reflect on their own learning.

Candidates are also required to submit an essay of 200 words. This is part of the application form. This should be a critical assessment of the influences that have inspired the candidate.

Candidates are required to independently produce and submit a digital portfolio (preferably a PowerPoint presentation) of 8 images of their artwork by Friday 12 February 2027. Candidates should select work that they think represents them at their best, with one image per slide and a brief description of the artwork, including media and size. Please do not submit more than 8 images or screens; to ensure fairness in the application process we will not consider any images or work beyond the initial 8 screens requested.

In the event of the Art scholarship being over-subscribed, we will use the digital portfolio and essay submissions to determine a short-list of scholarship candidates. If the digital portfolio is not submitted by the deadline, then applicants will no longer be eligible for consideration of an Art scholarship.

Candidates selected for the 13+ Art scholarship assessment should bring a physical portfolio of their work with them to the appraisal day. Part of the assessment will involve an interview with the Head of Art, where candidates will discuss their work, ideas and influences.

Candidates from overseas or who attend schools that do not prepare for Common Entrance will be required to sit our entrance tests in English, Maths and Reasoning prior to the assessment day.

Key dates:

• Submission of application forms (including 200-word essay) & bursary applications: Friday 29 January 2027
• Submission of digital portfolio: Friday 12 February 2027
• Confirmation of invitation to 13+ Art scholarship appraisal day by: Friday 19 February 2027
• 13+ Art scholarship appraisal day: Thursday 4 March 2027

Note to candidates and their teachers:

The approach of the Rugby School Art Department is very open, covering a broad range of disciplines. Whilst this approach is accepting of most forms of making art, all work is underpinned with a high standard of observational drawing. In addition, the ability to evaluate critically the work of others and one’s own work is essential. The Department is looking for candidates with a good skill base, imagination, sensitivity, flair and, above all, enthusiasm.

Award and Augmentation

If a scholarship is awarded, fees may be augmented by means-tested bursary support up to 100% of the boarding or day fees.

Bursary applications are made via an online system - please complete the Bursary Application Form below to start an application.

In order for your bursary application to be considered, your child must be registered with the School and the Registration Fee (if applicable) paid in full.

Applications submitted after the closing date may not be assessed until after the result of a scholarship application is known.