We know it's not easy funding your studies, and we work hard to provide as many opportunities as possible for you to apply for additional support when you're accepted to study for a degree or diploma here.
There are four ways to apply for support:
There are also additional funding opportunities for international students.
We have two application deadlines for those applying for degree and diploma funding - 1 April and 1 August 2022. Each scholarship and bursary will have the relevant deadline advertised next to it. Please make sure you adhere to this.
Applications are being accepted for The Leche Trust Bursary 2022-23 until 13 June 2022. Individuals who have accepted a place to study on the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms can apply for the award. Further details and how to apply
Applications remain open for The BASET Endeavour Award until 1 August 2022. Further details and how to apply
The Anna Plowden Trust is open for applications for Plowden Scholarships for students studying the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms who are finding it hard to finance their studies. Please apply directly using the link Applying to us | Anna Plowden Trust. Please note, the deadline for the 2022/23 academic year is advertised as June 6th 2022. However, due to the Jubilee celebrations and extended bank holiday, the deadline has been extended until June 13 2022.
Trustees will consider applications towards the end of June and applicants will be informed of the results by early July.
Each completed application form needs to be accompanied by a letter endorsing it, which should come from the leader of the course the student is hoping to attend, and one other reference. A letter that simply states that they have a place on the course is not sufficient.
Please note, that over time, as other scholarships and bursaries become available this page will be updated. Please check back for updates.
"I know that I couldn't have achieved all I have in my time here without the fantastic support I have received from the funding team and the organisations that have helped fund my studies. To have been awarded a scholarship from the Sidney Sanders Charitable Trust has taken the financial stress away from studying and has allowed me to make the most of my time at West Dean College."
Dale Sardeson, MA Conservation Studies, specialising in Clocks
Scholarships 2022-23 | Books | Ceramics | Clocks | Furniture | Metalwork | CCCM | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Value | GD | MA | GD | MA | GD | MA | GD | MA | GD | MA | MA | ||
BASET Endeavour Award | £10,000 per academic year (for up to two students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
The Worshipful Company of Cutlers Langdon Dowsett Scholarship | £1,000 | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
The South Square Trust Scholarship |
Up to £7,000 to one student |
✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
West Dean College Scholarship | 50% contribution towards tuition fees & 50% contribution towards accommodation fees | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
BADA | Up to £6,000 to one student | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Bursaries 2022-23 | Books | Ceramics | Clocks | Furniture | Metalwork | CCCM | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Value | GD | MA | GD | MA | GD | MA | PDD | GD | MA | GD | MA | MA | |
The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund |
Based on individual need |
✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
The Harriet's Trust Bursary | Up to £20,000
(likely to be split between two or more students) |
✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
The George Daniels Horology Bursary | Up to £20,000
(may be distributed to up to two students) |
✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||
The Behrens Foundation | £10,000 (to be distributed to two students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
The Alan Whitaker Bursary | £5,000 (to be divided amongst one or several students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||
Stationers' Foundation Bursary | £6,000 to one student | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars West Dean Accommodation Bursary |
£9,000 to one student | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary |
up to £5,000 to be shared between a maximum of three students | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||
The Leche Trust Bursary | £7,500 to one student | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
All scholars are expected to agree to the terms and conditions.
Please note: To ensure you are eligible to apply for the scholarship you are interested in please review the information on the application form in conjunction with the scholarship and bursary information on the website. Applicants should not apply directly to the funding organisation for any of the scholarship awards listed here.
The Leche Trust Bursary
Value: £7,500
Deadline: 13 June 2022
The Leche Trust may provide a bursary towards the costs of studying the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms at West Dean College for one student who is in financial need. Students should show the potential and ability to learn, demonstrate a need for financial assistance, and be intending to use their training to enter the field of conservation/craftwork on completion of their studies.
Application: Use the Leche Trust Bursary Application Form 2022-23
Terms: If successful, the award will be for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College in three instalments. The recipient agrees to provide personal progress reports at the end of each term. The recipient agrees to inform the Leche Trust on his/her employment status and on any particular successes in his/her field one year after the completion of the course for which the recipient receives financial support from the Leche Trust. A recipient of a Leche Trust bursary award who withdraws from study without a valid reason as accepted by West Dean College, may be liable to reimburse the full value of the bursary.
The BASET Endeavour Award
Value: £10,000 match funded with the Edward James Foundation to be divided between two students. Where only one student, the award will be £5,000 match funded.
Deadline: 1 August 2022
This will be awarded to an Australian national wishing to study on the Foundation Degree Arts - all pathways, the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms
BASET (The Britain Australia Society Education Trust) offers financial support to talented and deserving young people with skills and a passion in the applied creative industries. BASET supports these people to study and train on the other side of the world in order to increase those skills and to share knowledge and ideas - ultimately taking those skills home to continue their work while building valuable links between Britain and Australia.
"We are two great nations with strong connections and a bilateral desire to promote, maintain, preserve and conserve historical objects, artefacts and creative trades. BASET provides financial sponsorship where it "makes the difference" to support talented young people, both for the benefit of themselves and society as a whole."
Application: Australian nationals wishing to study on the Foundation Degree Arts - all pathways, on the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms, are invited to apply for this award. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development. Preference will be given to applicants intending to return to Australia after study. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the applicant such as name, course, work experience, education and personal statement will be sent to BASET for its approval before the award is made. BASET’s decision is final.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College. The applicant recognises that some additional funding from personal sources may be required and that transport, visa and living costs are the responsibility of the applicant. The successful applicant must provide regular updates to BASET and must produce an end of year report in their final term. They will be invited to be a part of the BASET community through its Helping Hands alumni network https://www.britain-australia.org.uk/baset.
The Worshipful Company of Cutlers Langdon Dowsett Scholarship
Value: £1,000
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Worshipful Company of Cutlers Langdon Dowsett Scholarship will be awarded to a student under the age of 30 studying on either the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Metalwork, the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies - Metalwork or the MA Conservation Studies - Metalwork.
Application: Metalwork students applying to any of the above programmes are welcome to apply for this Scholarship. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to the Worshipful Company of Cutlers for approval.
Terms: The award is for one academic year; paid directly to West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. Scholars are invited to attend the annual Scholars and Prize-winners Reception hosted by the Company, usually held in October. The scholar will be expected to produce an end of year report in the final term.
The South Square Trust Scholarship
Value: Up to £12,000 to be divided between two students as follows:
Deadline: 1 August 2022
The South Square Trust Scholarship will be awarded to two students, one to be on the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Metalwork and one to be on either the Graduate Diploma (GD) or MA Conservation Studies Metalwork, who hold UK Nationality or those who have been mainly educated in the UK and who demonstrate a clear financial need and excellence.
Application: Applicants to study Metalwork at West Dean College can apply for this award and must meet the above criteria. Applicants must submit a completed West Dean College Scholarship Bursary Application Form to West Dean College alongside their CV, a brief summary of their financial circumstances, and where applicable, examples of their work.
The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to the Trustees of the South Square Trust for approval before individuals are informed.
Terms: The scholarship is for the academic year 2022-23 and will be paid directly to West Dean College in three termly instalments towards tuition fees. Scholars must produce a progress report at the end of each term and an end of year report. If there are no suitable candidates in a year, the Scholarship will not be paid and cannot be carried forward to the next year.
West Dean College Scholarship
Value: One award of a 50% contribution towards tuition fees & 50% contribution towards accommodation fees (on campus accommodation only, meals not included)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The purpose of the scholarship is to provide support to students from underrepresented groups in Higher Education as set out in the College’s Access and Participation Strategy Statement.
Candidates who have accepted their place on a Diploma or Degree Programme and paid their deposit can apply for The West Dean College Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the Foundation’s Grants Committee. All bursary and scholarship offers are subject to Terms and Conditions. Students who are offered a scholarship will be asked to sign an acceptance form.
BADA
Value: Up to £6,000 given at the discretion of the BADA Cultural & Education Trust to help supplement other funding.
Deadline: 1 August 2022
The BADA Scholarship will be awarded to a student studying the Graduate Degree or MA Conservation Studies - Ceramics, Metalwork, Clocks or Furniture. Preference will be given to a student who will go into the antiques trade after graduation and who is intending to work in Britain. Students must demonstrate outstanding potential and financial need for whom the remainder of the funding can be met from elsewhere.
Application: Students applying to any of the above programmes are welcome to apply for this Scholarship. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to the British Antique Dealers Association for approval.
Terms: The award will be given at the discretion of the BADA Cultural & Education Trust to help supplement other funding and will be for one academic year; paid directly to West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. The scholar will be expected to produce an end of year report in the final term.
See further details on the application form below.
All bursary-funded students are expected to agree to the terms and conditions.
Please note: To ensure you are eligible to apply for the bursary you are interested in please review the information on the application form in conjunction with the scholarship and bursary information on the website. Applicants should not apply directly to the funding organisation for any of the bursaries listed below.
The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund
Value: Grants are given based on individual need.
Deadline: 1 April and 1 August 2022
If you need assistance to fund your studies, you can apply for a bursary from The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund once you have accepted a place to study at West Dean College. The Fund is financed by donations both from The Edward James Foundation itself as part of its charitable objectives and by other organisations and individuals who have made generous donations or bequests to support students.
Applicants should demonstrate a clear financial need and preference will be given to students who show that they are pursuing all possible avenues for raising the funds they will need, including applications to other grant-making trusts, part-time or holiday work and/or student loans. Preference will also be shown to students who have the potential to make a significant contribution to their chosen field.
Grants are given based on individual need. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they can finance any remaining accommodation and tuition fees not covered by their bursary award. The Grants Committee cannot consider an application without this information.
The Harriet's Trust Bursary
Value: Up to £20,000 (likely to be split between two or more students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
Available to students studying on one of the Clocks programmes within the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA), Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development.
Application: Individuals studying on one of the Clocks programmes within the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA), Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation is made to the funder of bursary.
Terms: The award is for one academic year. Awardees must produce an end of year report.
The George Daniels Educational Trust Horology Bursary
Value: up to £20,000 (may be distributed up to two students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The George Daniels Horology Bursary is supported by The George Daniels Educational Trust (GDET), established by Dr George Daniels CBE, a world-renowned horologist and instrument maker and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, it both honours his legacy and seeks to support a new generation of horologists.
Application: Individuals studying on the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Clocks, Professional Development Diploma, Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – Clocks specialisms, are invited to apply for this award. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to The George Daniels Educational Trust for their records.
Terms: The bursary is for one year and can be used to pay for tuition fees and/or living expenses.
The Behrens Foundation
Value: £10,000 (to be distributed to two students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
Available to students studying on the Graduate Diploma or MA in Conservation Studies (all specialisms) or the Foundation Degree Arts, FdA, (all pathways). Applicants should demonstrate a clear financial need. In order to offer maximum impact from the award, students of any age or nationality are eligible to apply.
Applications: Individuals studying on a relevant programme are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to the The Behrens Foundation for their records.
Students are required to complete an end of year report on completion of the academic year in which they receive bursary support.
The Alan Whitaker Bursary
Value: £5,000 to be awarded each year within the clocks department to be divided amongst one or several students
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Alan Whitaker Bursary will be awarded each year to one or several students applying for a second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways: Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) – Clocks, progression to the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies - Horology, Clocks and Related Objects, progression to the Professional Development Diploma in Horology.
Application: To be eligible to apply students must be going into the second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways (as above), must show ability, diligence, and application in their studies while at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for either their fees or their living expenses. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to funder for their records.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College to help offset fees or living expenses. The successful applicant will be expected to produce an end of year report in the final term.
The Stationers' Foundation Bursary
Value: £6,000 (to one student)
Deadline: Friday 20 May 2022
The Worshipful Company of Stationers provide bursary support for students studying on the Graduate Diploma or MA in Conservation Studies, specialising in Books and Library Materials at West Dean College. Applicants should be resident in the UK and classified as paying UK tuition fees, preferably aged under 25 on 1 September 2022; though applicants aged between 25 and 30 will be considered. Please discuss your application with the relevant Course Director and Administrator. Shortlisted applicants must be available for interview at Stationers’ Hall in London on the 23 June 2022 please note that the date may be subject to change and the interview may be virtual. Applicants should demonstrate financial need, a clear sense of career direction and give a sense of how their association with the Stationers’ Company would help them. The Bursary is awarded on the basis of the Stationers’ Company interviewing candidates selected by West Dean College’s Grants Committee at Stationers’ Hall. The Grants Committee will draw a shortlist of up to three candidates.
Application: Individuals who have accepted a place to study on one the Books programmes can apply for the award. Applications are considered by West Dean College’s Grants Committee, and nominees are asked to attend an interview at Stationers’ Hall in London on 23 June 2022. It is essential that applicants are available for these interviews. Each relevant course director will be part of the interview panel. A copy of the application form and guidelines can be downloaded here.
The application form must be supported by two referees, one academic and one personal from someone of standing who can support the financial statement made in the application. Applicants from West Dean College should send their applications direct to Charlotte Pede at admissions@westdean.ac.uk or charlotte.pede@westdean.ac.uk by the deadline Friday 20 May 2022.
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars West Dean Accommodation Bursary
Value: £9,000 to one student
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars bursary will be awarded to a student studying the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Clocks, Furniture or Metalwork pathway or the Graduate Diploma (GD) Conservation Studies Books, Ceramics, Clocks or Furniture specialism. Preference will be given to a student who holds UK Nationality or who has been mainly educated in the UK, who is aged under 25 on 1 September 2022 (though applicants aged between 25 and 30 will be considered). Students must demonstrate outstanding potential and financial need, whilst at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for living expenses.
Application: Students meeting the above criteria are welcome to apply for this bursary. The West Dean College Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to The Arts Scholars Company for approval.
Terms: The award is for one academic year, paid directly to West Dean College to cover the living expenses of full board accommodation at West Dean College. The award will be given at the discretion of The Arts Scholars Company and paid directly to West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. The successful student must produce an end of year report in the final term for publication or summary in the Arts Scholars’ Newsletter and/or website at the Arts Scholars’ discretion. The successful student may be invited to an Arts Scholars event such as its Awards lunch or similar, and consents to their photograph being reproduced in the Arts Scholars Newsletter and/or website at the Arts Scholars’ discretion.
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary
Value: up to £5,000 to be shared between a maximum of three students
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary, value up to £5,000 to be awarded each year, will be shared between a maximum of three students applying for a second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways: Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) – Clocks, progression to the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies - Horology, Clocks and Related Objects, progression to the Professional Development Diploma in Horology. Students must demonstrate ability, diligence, and application in their studies while at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for their fees.
Application: Students meeting the above criteria are welcome to apply for this bursary. The West Dean College Grants Committee will consider the applications and nominations accompanied by completed application forms and tutor reports will be made to the Company. Please note that nominees are asked to attend an interview at The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers’ Office in London in the week commencing 6th June 2022. It is essential that applicants are available for these interviews.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College to help offset fees. The successful applicant(s) will be expected to provide a report to the Company at the end of each term.
(Information last updated 17 March 2022)
Scholarships 2022-23 | Foundation Degree in Arts | FDAD | DACC | Fine Art | Creative Writing and Publishing | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Clocks | Furniture | Metalwork | Musical Instruments | |||||||
Value | FdA | FdA | FdA | FdA | GD | MA | MA | |||
BASET Endeavour Award | £10,000 per academic year (for up to two students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
The South Square Trust Scholarship |
Up to £5,000 to one student |
✓ | ||||||||
West Dean College Scholarship | 50% contribution towards tuition fees & 50% contribution towards accommodation fees | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Bursaries 2022-23 | Foundation Degree Arts | FDAD | DACC | Fine Art | Creative Writing and Publishing | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Clocks | Furniture | Metalwork | Musical Instruments | |||||||
Value | FdA | FdA | FdA | FdA | GD | MA | MA | |||
The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund |
Based on individual need |
✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
The Frances Lowe Bursary
|
Up to £5,000 (likely to be split between two or more students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
Derek Hill Foundation Bursary | £3,000 (award to be distributed to up to three students) | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||
The George Daniels Horology Bursary | Up to £20,000
(may be distributed to up to two students) |
✓ | ||||||||
The Behrens Foundation | £10,000 (to be distributed to two students) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
The Alan Whitaker Bursary | Up to £5,000
(likely to be split between one or several students) |
✓ | ||||||||
The Harriet's Trust Bursary | Up to £20,000
(likely to be split between two or more students) |
✓ | ||||||||
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars West Dean Accommodation Bursary | £9,000 to one student | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary | up to £5,000 to be shared between a maximum of three students | ✓ |
All scholars are expected to agree to the terms and conditions.
Please note: To ensure you are eligible to apply for the scholarship you are interested in please review the information on the application form in conjunction with the scholarship and bursary information on the website. Applicants should not apply directly to the funding organisation for any of the scholarship awards listed here.
BASET - British Australian Society Education Trust
Value: £10,000 match funded with the Edward James Foundation to be divided between two students. Where only one student, the award will be £5,000 match funded.
Deadline: 1 August 2022
This will be awarded to an Australian national wishing to study on the Foundation Degree Arts - all pathways, the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms
BASET (The Britain Australia Society Education Trust) offers financial support to talented and deserving young people with skills and a passion in the applied creative industries. BASET supports these people to study and train on the other side of the world in order to increase those skills and to share knowledge and ideas - ultimately taking those skills home to continue their work while building valuable links between Britain and Australia.
"We are two great nations with strong connections and a bilateral desire to promote, maintain, preserve and conserve historical objects, artefacts and creative trades. BASET provides financial sponsorship where it "makes the difference" to support talented young people, both for the benefit of themselves and society as a whole."
Application: Australian nationals wishing to study on the Foundation Degree Arts - all pathways, on the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms, are invited to apply for this award. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development. Preference will be given to applicants intending to return to Australia after study. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the applicant such as name, course, work experience, education and personal statement will be sent to BASET for its approval before the award is made. BASET’s decision is final.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College. The applicant recognises that some additional funding from personal sources may be required and that transport, visa and living costs are the responsibility of the applicant. The successful applicant must provide regular updates to BASET and must produce an end of year report in their final term. They will be invited to be a part of the BASET community through its Helping Hands alumni network https://www.britain-australia.org.uk/baset
The South Square Trust Scholarship
Value: Up to £12,000 to be divided between two students as follows:
Deadline: 1 August 2022
The South Square Trust Scholarship will be awarded to two students, one to be on the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Metalwork and one to be on either the Graduate Diploma (GD) or MA Conservation Studies Metalwork, who hold UK Nationality or those who have been mainly educated in the UK and who demonstrate a clear financial need and excellence.
Application: Applicants to study Metalwork at West Dean College can apply for this award and must meet the above criteria. Applicants must submit a completed West Dean College Scholarship Bursary Application Form to West Dean College alongside their CV, a brief summary of their financial circumstances, and where applicable, examples of their work.
The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to the Trustees of the South Square Trust for approval before individuals are informed.
Terms: The scholarship is for the academic year 2022-23 and will be paid directly to West Dean College in three termly instalments towards tuition fees. Scholars must produce a progress report at the end of each term and an end of year report. If there are no suitable candidates in a year, the Scholarship will not be paid and cannot be carried forward to the next year.
West Dean College Scholarship
Value: One award of a 50% contribution towards tuition fees & 50% contribution towards accommodation fees (on campus accommodation only, meals not included)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The purpose of the scholarship is to provide support to students from underrepresented groups in Higher Education as set out in the College’s Access and Participation Strategy Statement.
Candidates who have accepted their place on a Diploma or Degree Programme and paid their deposit can apply for The West Dean College Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the Foundation’s Grants Committee. All bursary and scholarship offers are subject to Terms and Conditions. Students who are offered a scholarship will be asked to sign an acceptance form.
See further details on the application form below.
All bursary-funded students are expected to agree to the terms and conditions.
Please note: To ensure you are eligible to apply for the bursary you are interested in please review the information on the application form in conjunction with the scholarship and bursary information on the website. Applicants should not apply directly to the funding organisation for any of the bursaries listed below.
The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund
Value: Grants are given based on individual need.
Deadline: 1 April and 1 August 2022
If you need assistance to fund your studies, you can apply for a bursary from The Edward James Foundation Bursary Fund once you have accepted a place to study at West Dean College. The Fund is financed by donations both from The Edward James Foundation itself as part of its charitable objectives and by other organisations and individuals who have made generous donations or bequests to support students.
Applicants should demonstrate a clear financial need and preference will be given to students who show that they are pursuing all possible avenues for raising the funds they will need, including applications to other grant-making trusts, part-time or holiday work and/or student loans. Preference will also be shown to students who have the potential to make a significant contribution to their chosen field.
Grants are given based on individual need. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they can finance any remaining accommodation and tuition fees not covered by their bursary award. The Grants Committee cannot consider an application without this information.
The Frances Lowe Bursary
Value: £5,000 (to be distributed to up to three students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
Available to students studying arts on the FDAD and DACC programmes. Graduate Diploma and MA students studying Fine Art will also be considered. Applicants should demonstrate talent and a commitment to their future career development. Applications are particularly encouraged from younger students (18-30).
Application: Individuals studying on a relevant art programme are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and recommendations along with a short precis including the applicant’s personal statement, name, course, age, references/tutor recommendation and portfolio are made to the funders for a final decision before any awards are confirmed.
The successful applicant must produce an end of year report in their final term.
The Derek Hill Foundation Bursary
Value: £3,000 (award to be distributed to up to three students)
Deadline: 01 April 2022
The Derek Hill Foundation Bursary will be given to a student studying Fine Arts, focussing on painting and drawing or sculpture or an interdisciplinary mix of the two. This is not available to students practising tapestry or textile art. Students must demonstrate financial need. Applicants can be of any age or nationality. Award to be distributed to up to three students.
Application: Students on the Fine Arts programme specialising in painting and drawing or sculpture or an interdisciplinary mix of the two are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominee will be sent to The Derek Hill Foundation for their records.
Terms: This bursary is for one academic year. The successful student must produce a report in the final term.
The George Daniels Education Trust Horology Bursary
Value: Up to £20,000 (may be distributed to up to two students)
Deadline: 01 April 2022
The George Daniels Horology Bursary is supported by The George Daniels Educational Trust (GDET), established by Dr George Daniels CBE, a world-renowned horologist and instrument maker and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, It both honours his legacy and seeks to support a new generation of horologists.
Application: Individuals studying on the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Clocks, Professional Development Diploma, Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – Clocks specialisms, are invited to apply for this award. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to The George Daniels Educational Trust for their records.
Terms: The bursary is for one year and can be used to pay for tuition fees and/or living expenses
The Behrens Foundation
Value: £10,000 (to be distributed to two students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
Available to students studying on the Graduate Diploma or MA in Conservation Studies (all specialisms) or the Foundation Degree Arts, FdA, (all pathways). Applicants should demonstrate a clear financial need. In order to offer maximum impact from the award, students of any age or nationality are eligible to apply.
Applications: Individuals studying on a relevant programme are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to the The Behrens Foundation for their records.
Students are required to complete an end of year report on completion of the academic year in which they receive bursary support.
The Alan Whitaker Bursary
Value: £5,000 to be awarded each year within the clocks department to be divided amongst one or several students
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Alan Whitaker Bursary will be awarded each year to one or several students applying for a second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways: Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) – Clocks, progression to the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies (specialising in Clocks), progression to the Professional Development Diploma in Horology.
Application: To be eligible to apply students must be going into the second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways (as above), must show ability, diligence, and application in their studies while at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for either their fees or their living expenses. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and details of the nominees will be sent to funder for their records.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College to help offset fees or living expenses. The successful applicant will be expected to produce an end of year report in the final term.
The Harriet's Trust Bursary
Value: Up to £20,000 (likely to be split between two or more students)
Deadline: 1 April 2022
Available to students studying on one of the Clocks programmes within the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA), Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies. Applicants should demonstrate excellent potential, a commitment to their studies and a clear aim for career development.
Application: Individuals studying on one of the Clocks programmes within the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA), Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies are eligible to apply for this award. The Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation is made to the funder of bursary.
Terms: The award is for one academic year. Awardees must produce an end of year report.
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars West Dean Accommodation Bursary
Value: £9,000 to one student
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars bursary will be awarded to a student studying the Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) Clocks, Furniture or Metalwork pathway or the Graduate Diploma (GD) Conservation Studies Books, Ceramics, Clocks or Furniture specialism. Preference will be given to a student who holds UK Nationality or who has been mainly educated in the UK, who is aged under 25 on 1 September 2022 (though applicants aged between 25 and 30 will be considered). Students must demonstrate outstanding potential and financial need, whilst at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for living expenses.
Application: Students meeting the above criteria are welcome to apply for this bursary. The West Dean College Grants Committee will consider the applications and a recommendation will be made to The Arts Scholars Company for approval.
Terms: The award is for one academic year, paid directly to West Dean College to cover the living expenses of full board accommodation at West Dean College. The award will be given at the discretion of The Arts Scholars Company and paid directly to West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. The successful student must produce an end of year report in the final term for publication or summary in the Arts Scholars’ Newsletter and/or website at the Arts Scholars’ discretion. The successful student may be invited to an Arts Scholars event such as its Awards lunch or similar, and consents to their photograph being reproduced in the Arts Scholars Newsletter and/or website at the Arts Scholars’ discretion.
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary
Value: up to £5,000 to be shared between a maximum of three students
Deadline: 1 April 2022
The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Bursary, value up to £5,000 to be awarded each year, will be shared between a maximum of three students applying for a second or third year of study on the Clocks programme all pathways: Foundation Degree Arts (FdA) – Clocks, progression to the Graduate Diploma or MA Conservation Studies - Horology, Clocks and Related Objects, progression to the Professional Development Diploma in Horology. Students must demonstrate ability, diligence, and application in their studies while at the same time finding it difficult to find the funds for their fees.
Application: Students meeting the above criteria are welcome to apply for this bursary. The West Dean College Grants Committee will consider the applications and nominations accompanied by completed application forms and tutor reports will be made to the Company. Please note that nominees are asked to attend an interview at The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers’ Office in London in the week commencing 6 June 2022. It is essential that applicants are available for these interviews.
Terms: The award is for one academic year and will be paid directly to West Dean College to help offset fees. The successful applicant(s) will be expected to provide a report to the Company at the end of each term.
(Information last updated 17 March 2022)
If you would like to develop your creative skills on one of our 300+ short courses but are unable to afford the full fees, bursary opportunities are available. These include bursaries for specialist conservation short courses, music summer schools, textiles courses and special groups including teachers and young people.
Find out more about short course bursariesThere are a number of further funders who share our passion for conservation and creativity. Students should apply to these funders directly.
The Anna Plowden Trust offers bursaries towards the fees for attending a full-time UK training course in the conservation of the movable heritage, such as paintings, textiles, archaeological objects. It also offers Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Grants to enable practising conservators to take advantage of CPD opportunities by contributing towards the cost of short courses and attending conferences. The Trust does not offer bursaries or grants for courses on the conservation of the built heritage.
The Anna Plowden Trust is open for applications for Plowden Scholarships for students studying the Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies or MA Conservation Studies – all specialisms who are finding it hard to finance their studies. Please apply directly using the link Applying to us | Anna Plowden Trust. Please note, the deadline for the 2022/23 academic year is advertised as June 6th 2022. However, due to the Jubilee celebrations and extended bank holiday, the deadline has been extended until June 13 2022.
Trustees will consider applications towards the end of June and applicants will be informed of the results by early July.
Each completed application form needs to be accompanied by a letter endorsing it, which should come from the leader of the course the student is hoping to attend, and one other reference. A letter that simply states that they have a place on the course is not sufficient.
Sussex Heritage Trust Bursary Scheme is open to any candidates aged 18 or over, with no upper age limit. The Trust’s Bursary Committee will consider funding the costs of one course for an individual studying on the Professional Development Diploma in Historic Building Conservation and Repair or an individual studying on a short course relating to construction, conservation and architectural heritage.
Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) funds the training and education of talented craftspeople through traditional college courses, vocational training or one to one training with a master craftsperson.
The Furniture Makers's Company provide bursaries to MA students on a furniture related course. For more information, email grantsandeducation@furnituremakers.org.uk
York Foundation for Conservation and Craftsmanship bursaries are available to craftspeople and conservators who would like assistance to further their skills and knowledge as well as to organisations who would like to take on trainees. Deadline for applications is 31 March 2022.
The Zibby Garnett Travel Fellowship is a charity giving financial help to individual students and apprentices to broaden their understanding of conservation worldwide. The students travel to relevant countries of interest, studying regional heritage craft and conservation techniques, and bring these skills back to the UK.
Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) as above, makes awards to craftsmen and women of all ages to help them further their careers.
The Eaton Fund provides funding for artists (not performing) e.g. painters, potters, sculptors and photographers. Funding given for materials and equipment.
RAB Trust (Rowan Armour-Brown) offers a number of annual awards to students of violin making at UK Colleges. Their financial grants typically help to fund the purchase of woods or tools, or underwrite the cost of a specific project. The Trust does not cover tuition fees or normal living expenses.
The Terence Pamplin Award is made every other year to encourage excellence in research in organology (the science and history of the development and construction of all acoustic musical instruments and their use) and musicology as it links to acoustic music instrument technology. It consists of a cheque and certificate confirming the award. The next Award will be made in 2021.
The Textile Society is committed to supporting and developing the study of textiles in the UK and awards bursaries supporting internships or apprenticeships and BA or MA final year projects or dissertations. Students undertaking any UK educational textile/fashion or related course are eligible.
Yorkshire Ladies Council of Education offers education awards to women.
Postgrad Solutions Study Bursary (worth £500) - The closing date for all entries for postgraduate courses starting in Autumn 2021 or January 2022 is 14 September 2021.
Student Cashpoint has information and advice about budgeting and applying for funding.
Turn 2 Us provides information and advice about grants and benefits.
(Information last updated 16 November 2021)
Please check the criteria and application details of the scholarships and bursaries listed above to see if you are eligible to apply.
If you need inspiration for other sources of funding check out the following list.
Be mindful that it is a good idea to send out funding applications as soon as possible. It may be more difficult to make arrangements for financial support once you have left your own country.
You can also enquire with your own Ministry or Department of Education, as they may have details of scholarship opportunities for students wishing to study overseas.
The British Council can provide you with a basic guide for possible sources of funding for international students who want to study in the UK.
Council for International Student Affairs guides international students looking for loans, welfare benefits and scholarships.
See also:
The Anglo-Danish Society - Scholarships
Canadian Centennial Scholarship Fund
Scholarships - Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (fcdo.gov.uk)
The Elizabeth Greenshields Award
If you are a UK student applying for the Foundation Degree or a Graduate Diploma you may be eligible to apply for a Student Loan (tuition fees and/or maintenance loans) from the Student Loans Company as long as you haven't previously received a Student Loan. Some EU students may also be eligible (for example EU students with Leave to Remain). Visit GOV.UK Student Loans Company. Please note: If you are eligible and successful with your appplication the tuition fee student loan is capped at £6,000.
Postgraduate loans: If you are a UK student you may be able to get a postgraduate loan of up to £11,222 to help with postgraduate course fees and living costs. Some EU students may also be eligible (for example EU students with Leave to Remain). Visit GOV.UK What You'll Get.
Please note that the availability of all student funding is subject to annual approval in line with the conditions for course designation set by the Department for Education.
Apply for funding at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation by downloading the application form/s. Once completed, send to Charlotte Pede, Admissions Officer, e-mail admissions@westdean.ac.uk.
Step by step: Securing funding for your studiesYou usually apply for funding as soon as you have received an offer of a course place using the forms on our website. The funding deadlines are 1 April and 1 August, but these can change each year. The College Grants Committee meets after these dates to review all applications and allocate funding.
You can only apply for a bursary or scholarship once you have been offered a place. Our funding opportunities change regularly as new funding organisations come on board. We want our applicants to have access to new bursaries as they become available and we constantly update our website to reflect this. On applying for the course, if you don’t know how you are going to fund your studies, you can indicate an estimated amount or say that funding is being applied for.
EU students need to apply for a student visa, the same process as an international student, and most EU students no longer have ‘home fee status’ or guaranteed access to UK financial support. They therefore need to access funding as an international student.
Yes – the College can support the funding of our international students. Some organisations are only able to fund UK residents, and this is specified in their criteria. We always recommend checking sources within your home country and always apply for funding before you arrive in UK. The British Council and UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has very useful information about applying for grants. Read more about funding for international students.
"Studying a second year at West Dean would not have been possible without the funding I have received, so I wanted to take this opportunity to thank my funders […] the backing you provide makes a real impact. Being able to study conservation full time for two years before working means that knowledge and skills which may be very time-intensive to acquire, can be learnt and honed without the worry of also trying to make sure they are being practised profitably at the same time."
Kate (MA Conservation Studies)
"The funding that has [been] provided has been such an extraordinary gift. To help enable someone to study, and practise something that they love, [is] lighting the way to […] a future career that couldn't be seen before."
Jane (Fine Art)
If you are applying for funding through one of our bursaries or scholarships, please read our T&Cs before completing your application.
(*) Different conditions apply for the Leche Trust Scholarship and the Skinners’ Atwell Bursary.