Academic Scholarships are available at 13+ and 16+ for pupils who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, intellectual curiosity and the potential to make a meaningful contribution to school life.

Academic Scholars join a proud tradition of high achievement at Merchiston, with many former scholars going on to secure outstanding examination results and places at leading universities in the UK and around the world.

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate academic excellence on entry and to maintain high standards throughout their time at Merchiston.

Scholarships are awarded to pupils with outstanding academic potential, which is then nurtured through our structured scholarship programme. Alongside their own academic development, Scholars are encouraged to lead by example; contributing to the intellectual life of the School and helping to inspire academic ambition across the wider pupil community.

To be successful as an All-Rounder, pupils need to demonstrate above average academic performance in their academic tests and select two of the following specialist areas for practical assessment, supported by interview/specialist assessment:

• Art & Design
• STEM
• Drama
• Music 
• Pipe Band
• Sport

Pupils benefit from a stimulating environment in which to develop both their creative and technical abilities, supported by our purpose-built Art & Design Centre.

The department is designed to nurture creativity, curiosity and craftsmanship, enabling pupils to explore a wide range of artistic and design disciplines while developing both conceptual thinking and technical skill.

Successful candidates will demonstrate clear artistic or technological aptitude, together with originality, commitment and a genuine passion for the creative process. Applicants will be invited to submit and discuss a well-presented portfolio of work, and to demonstrate an interest in art, design, artists and the wider creative world.

Music Scholars will be expected to make a significant contribution to music and performance at Merchiston. In return, we will provide exceptional teaching, wonderful facilities and plenty of opportunities to perform as a soloist and with others.

As part of the assessment process, pupils will attend a practical Music examination where they will be expected to perform at a standard approximately equivalent to Grade 5 of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music on their main instrument, although age and potential will be taken into account.

Pipers and drummers at Merchiston benefit from world-class tuition within one of the School’s most distinctive and celebrated musical traditions.

Opportunities in the Merchiston Pipe Band extend far beyond the campus, with regular performances and competitions at local, national and international level; developing musical excellence, confidence, teamwork and pride in performance.

As part of the scholarship assessment process, applicants will be invited to attend a practical audition in either bagpipes or drums, demonstrating both technical ability and performance potential.

Sports Scholarships are available at 13+ and 16+ for pupils who demonstrate outstanding sporting ability, commitment and the potential to perform at a high level.

Applicants should offer at least one sport for practical assessment, with at least one drawn from Merchiston’s key performance sports: rugby, cricket, athletics, tennis, golf or hockey.

Successful candidates will join a high-performance sporting environment, benefiting from outstanding coaching, excellent facilities, strength and conditioning support, and the opportunity to train and compete at an exceptionally high level.

Sports Scholars are expected not only to pursue excellence in their chosen disciplines, but also to lead by example; demonstrating commitment, resilience, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout their time at Merchiston.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at Merchiston is built on the essential skills required for success in the 21st century: critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, collaboration and communication.

STEM Scholarships are awarded to pupils who demonstrate exceptional aptitude, curiosity and a genuine passion for innovation, discovery and enquiry across the STEM disciplines.

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate both commitment to and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. As part of the assessment process, candidates will be invited to present and discuss a portfolio of work, primarily showcasing personal projects, independent enquiry, research or hobby-based innovation, alongside selected work completed in school.

In addition to the scholarship awards offered, each scholar cohort will be considered for a Head’s Award. The Head selects those who not only show excellent ability but who also align with our school values and virtues, show great promise and have the potential to make an outstanding contribution to the Merchiston community.

The Head’s Award recognises that we are a school focused on a broad and holistic education. We celebrate and encourage pupils who push themselves in different directions and try new things. This award clearly links to our ethos and approach, where we value what happens outside the classroom as much as what happens inside it.

The Head’s Award provides up to 10% fee remission and can be held alongside one other scholarship, up to a maximum of two awards.

The MERCHI Award recognises boys joining Fourth Form (S2/Year 9) who show the strength of character and personal qualities that reflect the spirit of Merchiston. The name represents the values and virtues we look for: Motivation, Empathy, Resilience, Curiosity, Humility, and Integrity. These are all qualities that help shape well-rounded young men ready to contribute positively to every aspect of school life.

We are looking for boys who are curious about the world around them, who persevere when faced with challenges, and who act with kindness and respect for others. MERCHI Award holders lead by example. They are positive role models within their current schools and communities, and they show the potential to do the same at Merchiston.

As part of the award, scholars will join a small group that meets with the Head once every half term. These meetings offer time for reflection and discussion, encouraging boys to think about leadership, character, and how they can make a difference within the school community.

The MERCHI Award provides up to 10% fee remission and can be held alongside one other scholarship, up to a maximum of two awards.

Entry Criteria

Applicants should:

• Be entering Fourth Form (S2/Year 9) at Merchiston.
• Demonstrate the values of Motivation, Empathy, Resilience, Curiosity, Humility, and Integrity through their actions and attitude.
• Show that they are positive role models who make a meaningful contribution to their current school or community.
• Display a genuine enthusiasm for learning and a readiness to explore new ideas.
• Submit a personal statement (written or recorded) explaining how they demonstrate the MERCHI values and virtues in everyday life, and how they aim to contribute to the Merchiston community.
• Take part in a short interview and assessment day, involving group activities and conversations with members of staff.

We are looking for boys who approach school life with confident humility: those who care about others, enjoy learning and want to play an active part in the life of the school.

How to Apply

To apply for the MERCHI Award, candidates should indicate their interest during the admissions process. Applications should include:

• A completed Scholarship Application Form.
• A personal statement or short video (around 300 words or 2–3 minutes).
• A reference from their current Headteacher or class teacher, commenting on the applicant’s character and contribution to school life.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an Assessment Day at Merchiston, and an interview with a member of the Executive Team.

Our International Award provides an additional route for families joining from overseas, who do not qualify for means-tested bursaries. It reflects our commitment to welcoming talented pupils from a global community. To find out more about eligibility and how to apply, please contact our Admissions Team at admissions@merchiston.co.uk.