Northumbria University is proud to announce the opening of applications for the Choral Scholarships 2025/2026. These scholarships are designed to complement the BA (Hons) Music programme and offer talented vocalists the opportunity to engage in high-level choral music-making alongside their academic studies.
Northumbria University is a prestigious public university located in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Its roots date back to 1880 with the establishment of Rutherford College, one of several institutions that later merged to form Newcastle Polytechnic in 1969. In 1992, Newcastle Polytechnic gained university status and became Northumbria University. Since then, it has grown into a leading institution known for its strong focus on research, innovation, and professional education, attracting students from across the UK and around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Choral Scholarships 2025/2026 |
| Award Amount | £700 cash payment |
| Eligibility | Full-Time UK/Home undergraduate students |
| Application Deadline | 29 August 2025 |
| Key Requirement | Participation in Cathedral University Choir |
| Payment Structure | 25% in Nov 2025, 25% in Feb 2026, 50% in May 2026 |
| Selection Process | Written application + audition |
| Course Requirement | Full-Time Undergraduate/Foundation Year at Newcastle or Coach Lane Campus |
| Placement Year Eligibility | Scholarship not available during placement year |
Background
Northumbria University has a proud tradition of supporting student excellence both academically and artistically. Recognizing the importance of music in enriching the student experience, the university has partnered with St Nicholas Cathedral, Newcastle’s historic center for choral music, to launch the Choral Scholarships.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Choral Scholarship, applicants must:
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Be a UK/Home student, including those from Jersey, Guernsey, The Channel Islands, Ireland, and the Isle of Man.
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Have applied for a Full-Time Undergraduate course starting in September 2025. Foundation Year students are eligible.
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Choose Northumbria University as their firm choice by 30 June 2025.
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Register with Student Finance England (SFE), Wales (SFW), or Northern Ireland (SFNI); Scottish students must apply to SAAS or provide bank details directly to Northumbria.
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Attend courses at Newcastle Upon Tyne or Coach Lane Campus (not available during placement year).
Benefits
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Value: £700 paid directly to students.
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Payment Breakdown:
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25% in November 2025
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25% in February 2026
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50% in May 2026
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Performance Requirement: Active participation in the Cathedral University Choir with mandatory rehearsals:
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Tuesdays: 16:45 – 19:30
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Wednesdays: 13:00 – 14:00
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One additional weekday afternoon (timing TBD)
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Note: Regular attendance and satisfactory progress are mandatory to continue receiving the scholarship.
Application Process
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Submit an Online Application: Include a written response (maximum 1500 characters) describing:
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Your singing experience to date.
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How you would contribute to vocal and choral music-making at Northumbria and St Nicholas Cathedral.
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Audition Invitation for Shortlisted Candidates:
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Perform one piece or a section (4–8 minutes) of your choice.
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Complete a sight-reading exercise and voice test.
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Auditions will be held on-campus at Northumbria University.
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Notification: Successful applicants will be informed after the closing date.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 29 August 2025.
Conclusion
The Choral Scholarships 2025/2026 at Northumbria University are a remarkable opportunity for musically talented students to blend academic success with professional-level musical experience. By joining the Newcastle Cathedral Consort and working closely with skilled musicians, scholars will not only enhance their vocal skills but also become an integral part of a vibrant musical tradition at one of the UK’s most dynamic universities.