Bursaries

Admissions

We recognise that a Bedford School education is a significant financial investment, and one that not all families can afford.

Bursaries

Through means-tested bursaries, each year we offer financial support to parents of boys with significant academic, artistic, dramatic, musical or sporting potential, who would otherwise be unable to join or remain with us.

Bursaries can cover up to 100% of annual fees (day and boarding) and are awarded based on your son’s abilities and your family’s financial situation.

“Thanks to a bursary, I was able to attend Bedford School. I believe this education provided me with three main benefits: firstly, the inspiring, down to earth and supportive ethos of the school, which filters down to the individual teachers…

Leroy Knowles (92-97), Oxford Graduate, Investment Banker and Mentor.

…secondly, access to amazing sporting facilities, highly qualified coaching staff and opportunities for consistent participation and leadership in a variety of sports…

Leroy Knowles (92-97), Oxford Graduate, Investment Banker and Mentor.

…and lastly, and most importantly, the house system and tutor system at Bedford gave me lifelong friends.”

Leroy Knowles (92-97), Oxford Graduate, Investment Banker and Mentor.

When to Apply

You can submit a bursary application:

  • when your son is applying for Year 7, Year 9 or Year 12.
  • as a current parent, before those key transitions — if your finances have changed significantly. We recommend speaking with the Director of Finance & Operations first if your situation changes — contact dfo@bedfordschool.org.uk
  • in exceptional cases of hardship for current boys in key exam years. *

Please click below to view frequently asked questions regarding the Harpur Trust Bursary Scheme.

How to Apply

To apply for a bursary:

  • Register with the school and pay the registration fee (£150).
  • Complete the Harpur Trust online bursary form by 5pm on 1 December 2025. The Harpur Trust will provide assistance (either online or in person) if required.
  • Ensure your son is available for school assessments in January 2026.

We regret that no awards for entry in September 2026 can be made on applications received outside this time frame. Decisions on bursaries are made during the spring term. All families who apply for a bursary are notified by email no later than 4.00pm on Wednesday 11 February 2026.

More Information
If you would like to find out more about bursaries, please contact Mr Richard Midgley, Director of Admissions, at Bedford School on 01234 362216 or email: admissions@bedfordschool.org.uk.