The purpose of Interlochen's financial aid program is to help provide outstanding young performers the means to further their artistic development. Interlochen is able to provide some degree of assistance to approximately 25% of its campers. No student or 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 section of the application for admission must be completed and required tax documentation must be received with your application in order to be considered for aid. Applicants must apply for financial aid at the same time as applying for admission.
The Financial Aid Committee determines need by evaluating a family’s ability to contribute against the total cost of attendance. Eligibility for need-based aid is determined through a review of a family’s federal income tax information. To be eligible for need-based financial aid, a family must demonstrate that its resources are insufficient to cover the total cost of tuition. Exceptional circumstances not readily ascertainable from tax documentation should be submitted in a concise letter.
Need-based aid is intended to defray the cost of Camp attendance, where appropriate, and will not cover the total cost. Available funding is limited, with the purpose of helping as many families as possible who demonstrate need.
Applicants are encouraged to research grants and loan programs offered by their local governments, as well as foundations, banks, employers, artistic venues and educational organizations.
Merit-Based Aid
Interlochen provides merit-based aid 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 may be considered for merit-based aid.
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 division in an ensemble program. Emerson Scholars are chosen from candidates who complete and submit application materials by the priority application deadline of February 1. It is recommended that Emerson Scholarship applicants who require financial aid submit tax documentation in the event they are not selected for this highly competitive program.
Financial Aid Opportunities
- Students may receive only ONE financial aid award per camp year from funds provided by Interlochen.
- Financial Aid is available for all arts areas, however programs with audition requirements will receive priority consideration.
- Interlochen provides funding for scholarships for members of a number of youth symphonies and music programs throughout the United States. If you are a member of a youth symphony, or other community music programs, please check with your director or manager for possible sources of funding.
- If you are a High School string, woodwind, brass or percussion major, please review information about the Emerson Scholars Program.
How to Apply for Financial Aid
- If you are submitting an online Camp application, check the appropriate box under "Are you applying for Financial Aid?" and fill out the additional questions as appropriate. Then send us a copy of your most recent income tax form 1040.
- If you are submitting a hardcopy Camp application, complete the Financial Aid section (page 4) and include a copy of your most recent income tax form 1040.
- Make sure you have paid or enclosed the Camp application fee.
