Interlochen's financial aid program is intended to help provide outstanding young artists some assistance to further their artistic development. Interlochen is able to provide financial aid to approximately 25% of its campers. No family should be discouraged from applying to Interlochen Arts Camp because of lack of funds. We welcome a broad cross section of families who believe in their children and in their ability to succeed.
Need-Based Aid
The Financial Aid Committee determines eligibility for need-based aid through a review of a family's income documentation. Aid amounts vary depending upon the length and cost of the program and the family's income level. Available funding is limited and need-based financial aid will cover only a portion of the tuition cost.
Applicants are encouraged to research grants and loan programs offered by their local governments, foundations, banks, and employers, as well as artistic and educational organizations to help supplement the assistance offered by Interlochen.
Financial aid is not available for one-week Institute programs.
How to Apply for Need-Based Aid
- In the financial aid section of the camp application for admission, indicate your interest in applying for financial aid.
- Upload a copy of your 2011 or 2012 federal income tax form 1040 (International applicants must submit an official Verificiation of Salary for each parent. This document must be in English.)
Admission decisions are need-blind, however failure to upload income documentation at the time of application may result in significant delays and could affect eligibility for financial aid. It is recommended that applicants who are seeking financial aid have a .PDF copy of their tax documents ready before beginning the application for admission.
Partial-Tuition Merit Scholarships
Interlochen provides partial-tuition merit scholarships for a limited number of its most qualified candidates. No financial documentation is required. Only applicants for admission to programs requiring an audition or portfolio will be considered for merit scholarships. To apply, simply check the box pertaining to merit scholarship on the application for admission. Merit scholarships are not available for one-week Institute programs.
Full-Tuition Merit Scholarships for High School Orchestra and Wind Symphony
Emerson Scholars Program: The Emerson Scholars Program is a full tuition scholarship competition for string, woodwind, brass and percussion musicians from across the country to attend the high school music division in an orchestral program.
Fennell Scholars Program: Musicians who excel in woodwinds, brass or percussion are eligible to earn up to a full scholarship to America's premier wind symphony (band) program at Interlochen Arts Camp. The Fennell Scholarship is named after Interlochen alumnus Frederick Fennell, who was one of the world's most distinguished wind conductors and a life-long friend of Interlochen.
Forty-five Emerson Scholars and eleven Fennell Scholars are chosen from candidates who complete and submit application materials by the priority application deadline of February 15. It is recommended that string, wind, and percussion applicants who require financial aid submit tax documentation in the event they are not selected for this highly competitive program.