Hey music lovers and future industry pros! Ever dreamt of making it big in the global music world but need a solid financial boost to get there? Well, listen up because the IIE-Sony Music Group Global Scholars Bursary for 2025 is here to help turn that dream into a reality!
This incredible global bursary program, a commitment from Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund in partnership with IIE, is designed to propel the careers of talented, diverse young individuals passionate about music. It’s all about giving you access to top-notch post-secondary education at leading music and music business institutions around the world, helping you step onto the path of becoming a music industry leader.
Who Can Apply?
So, who’s eligible to hit play on this application? Check out the requirements:
- You need to be planning to enroll as a full-time undergraduate student for the 2025-2026 academic year. This includes 3-4 year programs at any accredited college or university in music or music business-related fields.
- You should maintain a U.S. equivalent GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or higher. Basically, your grades need to show you’ve got the potential to rock it in your chosen music industry field!
- Demonstrated financial need is a must.
- Good news: You don’t need to be accepted into a program when you apply. But if you’re selected for the bursary, you’ll need to show proof of full-time enrollment before the funds are sent your way.
What Does It Cover?
Curious about the perks? This bursary is designed to give you a significant boost:
- Bursary amounts typically range between USD 3,000 and USD 20,000 per academic year. This covers required tuition and mandatory fees for your degree program. The exact amount will vary based on your college/university’s location and type (e.g., state vs. private), and your expected financial need.
- While it’s a generous amount, remember it’s not meant to cover ALL your educational expenses. You’ll be responsible for the rest, like books, living costs, and transportation.
- The scholarships can be renewed for up to three additional years or until you complete your degree, whichever comes first. To keep your funding, you’ll need to maintain at least a U.S. equivalent 3.0 GPA and stay enrolled full-time in your music or music business-related studies.
- Beyond the money, Sony Music Group Global Scholars might get awesome professional development opportunities, like unpaid internships or mentorships. Talk about a backstage pass to the industry!
- You’ll also get access to a wide range of enrichment programming, including structured events and webinars where you can connect with SMG industry experts. This is your chance to build an international network of future music industry pros!
How to Apply?
Ready to drop the beat on your application? Here’s what you need to do:
- The final deadline for application submission is Friday, August 8, 2025.
- Make sure your recommenders submit their letters by Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
A complete application must be submitted in English and will include:
- A fully completed online application form.
- A personal statement (up to 3,500 characters) where you can tell your story.
- An estimate of your expected tuition and mandatory fees for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Two reference letters from non-family members who know you well. Think teachers, instructors, professors, employers, scout leaders, or club advisors.
- Your official high school transcript/grade report. (For applicants from the UK or Commonwealth countries, A level, O level, GCSE, or BTEC results are also accepted).
Important Note: Only applications completed by the deadline will be reviewed. Any falsified or plagiarized information will lead to automatic disqualification, so keep it real!
For more detailed information and to start your application, head over to the official webpage:
Visit the Official Webpage of the IIE-Sony Music Group Global Scholars Program
If this sounds like the perfect rhythm for your future, don’t wait – hit that apply button now! And while you’re at it, explore more incredible bursaries right here on Bursaries Room to keep your funding journey on track!