Annual Performing Arts Scholarships
Scholarship Auditions dates for
2028 entry will be announced soon
External Applicants Only | Partial Tuition Scholarships
The McDonald College offers a limited number of Performing Arts Scholarships to students entering Years 5 – 11 in 2027.
These scholarships provide partial reduction of tuition fees (excluding extras) and are awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic potential as well as exceptional talent and commitment in one or more of the following disciplines:
Classical Ballet, Dance, Acting, Musical Theatre, and Music.
Scholarships are highly competitive. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection for an audition or a scholarship.
Eligibility & Expectations
Applicants must:
- Be an external student seeking entry to The McDonald College in 2028
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to both academic studies and performing arts training
- Show outstanding ability in at least one performing arts discipline
- Provide evidence of consistent training, performance experience and artistic development
Scholarship recipients are expected to make a positive contribution to the College, demonstrate an exemplary work ethic, maintain a high standard of effort, conduct, and engagement, and represent The McDonald College with professionalism and pride.
Scholarships are reviewed annually and awarded at the discretion of the College.
Discipline Guidelines
– Age-appropriate level of RAD training or equivalent (view details here)
– Strong classical technique, artistry and musicality
– Evidence of pointe work (where age-appropriate)
– Regular studio training. Performance or competition experience optional.
– Demonstrated versatility and technical strength (view details here)
– Strong performance quality and stylistic awareness
– Ongoing training across multiple dance styles
– Experience in competitions, performances or professional-style training programs (optional)
– Experience in school, community or professional theatre, screen or drama programs (view details here)
– Strong characterisation, vocal clarity and physical awareness
– Evidence of acting training and ensemble work
– Integrated skills across acting, singing and movement (view details here)
– Experience in stage productions, competitions or specialist training
– Strong storytelling, musicality and stage presence
– Age-appropriate level of AMEB or equivalent (view details here)
– Strong technical control, musical interpretation and performance confidence
– Experience in solo and/or ensemble performance settings (optional)
How to apply
First Round – Application
You will be required to:
1. Register your interest to audition below (our registrar will be in touch).
2. Complete an application form
3. Provide recent school reports and NAPLAN results
4. Provide training, performances and achievements report
4. Send in a personal statement (200 words) outlining artistic goals and how the applicant would contribute to the life of The McDonald College
5. Pay the application fee.
Second Round – Academic Test and Auditions
For audition requirements, click here.
Third round – Principal Interview
After the Audition students are required to attend an interview with the Principal. Families are then notified of the outcome within two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are The McDonald College performing arts scholarships means-tested?
No. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of artistic talent, academic potential, and demonstrated commitment. Financial circumstances are not part of the assessment.
Which year groups are eligible for a performing arts scholarship?
The annual scholarship auditions are open to external students seeking entry to The McDonald College in Years 5 through 11.
Can I apply for a scholarship in more than one performing arts discipline?
Yes, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each discipline. You will need to audition in each stream you wish to be considered for.
What does a partial reduction in tuition fees mean?
Scholarships provide a reduction on tuition fees (the academic and performing arts components combined). All other fees, including family levies and subject levies, remain payable in full. The specific value of each scholarship is determined at the discretion of the College following auditions.
Do I need to be currently enrolled at another school to apply?
Scholarships are open to external applicants only, meaning students not currently enrolled at The McDonald College. Current students are eligible for the Ann McDonald Scholarships, which are separate awards.
What is the difference between the annual scholarship auditions and the regular audition rounds?
The dedicated scholarship audition held at the start of each year is the primary round for scholarship consideration. Additional scholarships may occasionally be offered at other points throughout the year, subject to availability. The registrar can advise on current opportunities.
What happens if a scholarship recipient’s results decline?
Scholarships are reviewed annually. Recipients are expected to maintain a high standard of academic effort, engagement, and conduct. The College reserves the right to withdraw a scholarship if these expectations are not met.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. An application fee is payable as part of the scholarship application process. Contact the registrar at registrar@mcdonald.nsw.edu.au or 02 9752 0507 for current details.
How long does it take to find out if my child has been offered a scholarship?
After the audition and principal interview, families are notified of the outcome within two weeks.
My child missed the annual scholarship audition. Can they still be considered?
Occasionally. Additional scholarship opportunities may arise throughout the year. Contact the registrar at registrar@mcdonald.nsw.edu.au or 02 9752 0507 to find out what is currently available.
Get in touch with our Registrar
02 9752 0507 | registrar@mcdonald.nsw.edu.au