Scholarship Program 2026
Scholarships at HVGS are designed to identify and nurture talent and enable students to pursue their passions. To this end, HVGS is committed to nurturing a diverse student body through a breadth of scholarships. Beyond the financial benefits of a scholarship, students at HVGS join a community that is dynamic and committed to excellence within and beyond the classroom.
Students awarded a scholarship will demonstrate the School’s values in action prior to enrolment at HVGS, throughout the scholarship process, and during their time at the School.
Scholarships at HVGS are modelled on the motto: “Successthrough Endeavour”. Scholarship students demonstrate that through hard work and resilience, success can be realised.
The following scholarships are available in 2026:
• General Excellence
• Sport
• Arts - Music/Visual Arts/ Drama
• STEM, and
• Indigenous.
Eligibility
All applicants must be an Australian Citizen or a Permanent Resident of Australia. Please refer to the Scholarship Policy on the School’s website for specific criteria and value for each scholarship.
Scholarship Application Fee
All applicants must pay the $90 non-refundable Scholarship Application Fee. The Scholarship Application Fee is waived for the Indigenous Scholarship.
Expectations
Scholarship recipients are expected to remain at HVGS for the entirety of their senior schooling.
Scholarships are competitive
It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that all required information is submitted in full, by the required date.
Incomplete applications can not be considered and we are unable to offer extensions of time, or rescheduling of audition or interview dates.
To put your best application forward, we suggest:
• Carefully reading the HVGS Scholarship Policy on our website to ensure the applicant meets the criteria for each scholarship on offer.
• Planning your submission well in advance of the closing date.
• Thoroughly reading the supplementary documentation and application requirements for each individual scholarship detailed in this booklet.
Decisions are final
Scholarships are merit-based. Successful applicants are awarded scholarships after selection by the HVGS Scholarship Committee. Decisions made by the Committee are final. We are unable to provide specific feedback on individual students application.
What is not included in the value of the scholarship...
• The School’s Enrolment Bond of $1,250 per student.
• The cost of uniforms, non-compulsory camps and noncompulsory excursions, co-curricular activities, travel to events, event tickets, overseas tours, private music lessons, instrument and equipment hire, textbooks, student laptop devices, purchases from the School restaurant and cafe.
Timeline
11 November 2024
14 February 2025
Scholarships open for entry in 2026
Scholarships close for entry in 2026. Applicants must have submitted all documentation on before this date.
On or before
21 March 2025
Wednesday 2 April 2025
On or before
9 May 2025
Notification of shortlisted applicants. HVGS will notify applicants who have been shortlisted for an interview.
Arts Scholarship (Music and Drama) Auditions and Interviews. Shortlisted applicants applying with a focus in Music and/or Drama are required to attend an audition/interview.
All other Scholarships Interviews
Interviews and family tours held for shortlisted applicants for all other Scholarships.
On or before 13 June 2025
Successful and unsuccessful applicants notified about the outcome of their application.
Available
Scholarships
Important: General expectations of scholarship recipients, specific entry criteria, scholarship values, and review processes for scholarship holders are outlined in the HVGS Scholarship Policy located on the HVGS website.
Please read the Policy carefully before submitting your application.
Criteria
Students applying for the HVGS General Excellence Scholarship must:
• Meet the criteria of the HVGS General Excellence Scholarship detailed in the HVGS Scholarship Policy.
• Not be receiving any other HVGS scholarship.
Years 7 - 9 Applicants
Please refer to the Application Requirements to submit your application.
Years 10 and 11 Applicants
General Excellence Scholarships for Years 10 and 11 are open to students who are intending to study the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in the final two years of school. Please refer overleaf for information about the IB Diploma Programme.
When you are ready to submit your application, please follow the Application Requirements detailed on this page.
Assessment of Application for HVGS General Excellence Scholarship
The student’s application will be reviewed by the HVGS Scholarship Committee and shortlisted candidates will be referred for an interview with members of the Committee.
The student’s portfolio and statement will form the basis of the interview.
Application Requirements
All HVGS General Excellence Scholarship applicants must:
1. Submit an online Application and pay the $90 Scholarship Application Fee.
2. Submit a General Excellence Portfolio that addresses the criteria outlined in the Scholarship Policy for this scholarship. This can be evidenced by:
• Certificates, achievements or awards to demonstrate the applicant’s level of excellence in academic, cocurricular, service and/or leadership activities.
3. Submit their latest two school reports and NAPLAN test results as evidence of high academic achievement with teachers making positive and affirming comments about the student as a learner.
Applicants must also submit a brief statement outlining how the applicant’s skills and attitudes to learning have led to these results.
4. Provide a reference or statement of support from their current school Principal attesting to the personal attributes of the student and the positive contribution the student will make to the ethos of our School.
5. In the form of a written statement (maximum 300 words) or video presentation (maximum 2 minutes) please answer, “What can you bring to the life of HVGS?”
The response should refer to ONE of the Hunter Valley Grammar School Values which the applicant believes is embodied or reflected in their achievements thus far.
General Excellence Scholarship
Years 10 and 11 Applicants
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)
IB Diploma Programme at HVGS
Hunter Valley Grammar School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering all four IB programmes. In 2025, HVGS will proudly become the only school in Australia to offer all four IB programmes—a milestone that solidifies our standing as an educational leader both locally and nationally.
This remarkable achievement ensures that young people in the Hunter/Newcastle region can access a world-class, globally recognised education without having to leave their community. This is an opportunity for our young people that is truly second to none.
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an academically challenging and rigorous two-year course of study for students in Years 11 and 12. Students engage with subjects across six groups, ensuring a well-rounded and holistic learning experience. The IBDP prepares students not only for the demands of tertiary study but also for deep, interdisciplinary thinking.
A unique feature of the IBDP is its focus on personal and academic growth. Students are required to participate in Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), write an Extended Essay, and explore the Theory of Knowledge.
The IBDP addresses the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of students, earning it respect from universities worldwide. Graduates of the IB Diploma Programme are highly sought after by top universities and, in some cases, may be offered guaranteed admission to undergraduate courses in different systems even before receiving their final results.
Why might a student prefer an IB
Diploma Pathway
The Diploma Programme:
• Encourages students to become confident, independent learners.
• Provides a broad, rigorous study pattern, where students study a subject from each of the curriculum areas, thus, increasing academic opportunity. This is important for students who are still undecided about their future careers and tertiary studies.
• Is an international qualification recognised by leading universities around the world.
• Develops globally minded graduates.
• Links subjects through the Theory of Knowledge component so that students make connections between subjects rather than studying them in isolation.
• Provides two levels to studying each subject so that more time can be devoted to the student’s stronger subjects, hereby, balancing breadth with depth of learning.
• Has equal standing for all subjects; there is no scaling of subjects when calculating a student’s ATAR.
Overview of the IB Diploma Programme
The DP consists of two major components:
1. The Curriculum
Students select a subject from six subject disciplines (Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Mathematics, Sciences, Individuals and Societies, and the Arts). There is some flexibility to double up on a discipline and this will be discussed through the course selection process.
Students select three subjects which are studied for 150 hours (called a standard level subject) over the two years, and three subjects which are studied for 240 hours (called a higher level subject) over the two years, thereby, allowing them to spend more time studying their stronger subjects in more depth.
2. The Core
There are three components, which comprise the DP core.
The Extended Essay: Students complete a 4,000-word essay in a Higher Level subject of their choice addressing a research question which they devise in collaboration with their supervisor.
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS): The students are involved in activities which help them to understand the importance of living a balanced life. The activities are often interwoven and develop creative thinking, physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, and helping others through unpaid voluntary work. CAS is not formally assessed.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Is designed to develop a student’s critical thinking and analytical skills. It helps students to understand how knowledge is constructed in each of their subjects i.e. how we know what we claim to know.
Criteria
The HVGS Sport Scholarship can support students who excel in the following representative sports offered at HVGS: cricket, basketball, netball, football, rugby union, swimming, athletics, cross country, touch football, tennis, rowing, equestrian, volleyball, snowsport and aerobics.
Students applying for the HVGS Sport Scholarship must:
• Meet the criteria of the HVGS Sport Scholarship detailed in the HVGS Scholarship Policy.
• Not be receiving any other HVGS scholarship.
Application Requirements
All HVGS Sport Scholarship applicants must:
1. Submit an online Application and pay the $90 Scholarship Application Fee.
2. Submit a Sport Portfolio that addresses the criteria outlined in the Scholarship Policy for this scholarship. This can be evidenced by:
• Documentation that attests to consistent sporting achievement over 2-3 consecutive years at a state, national or international level within one the HVGS representative sports detailed above. Only include evidence from the last 2 - 3 years.
Copies of sporting medals, accolades, and acknowledgment of inclusion within sporting teams. Examples of accolades could include ‘player of the tournament’, ‘leading goal scorer’, ‘best and fairest’. A video submission that demonstrates their high level of skill within their sport, may also be included.
Provide at least one strong reference from current sporting coach.
Submit their latest two school reports and NAPLAN test results.
In the form of a written statement (maximum 300 words) or video presentation (maximum 2 minutes) please answer, “What can you bring to the sporting life of HVGS?” The response should refer to ONE of the Hunter Valley Grammar School Values which the applicant believes is embodied or reflected in their achievements thus far. This MUST be submitted in the student’s own words without the aid of AI.
Assessment of Application for HVGS Sports Scholarship
The student’s application will be reviewed by the HVGS Scholarship Committee and shortlisted candidates will be referred for an interview with members of the Committee.
The student’s portfolio and statement will form the basis of the interview.
Criteria
Scholarships in the Arts may be awarded to applicants with talent and creative abilities in either Music, Visual Arts or Drama. Students are only eligible for ONE scholarship in the Arts. Students applying for the HVGS Arts Scholarship must:
• Meet the criteria of the HVGS Arts Scholarship detailed in the HVGS Scholarship Policy.
• Not be receiving any other HVGS scholarship.
Application Requirements
All HVGS Arts Scholarship applicants must:
1. Submit an online Application and pay the $90 Scholarship Application Fee.
2. Submit an Arts Portfolio that addresses the criteria outlined in the Scholarship Policy for this scholarship. This can be evidenced by specific criteria detailed on the following page for each Arts subject area.
3. Provide at least one strong reference from the applicant’s teacher in either Music, Visual Arts or Drama.
4. Submit their latest two school reports and NAPLAN test results.
5. In the form of a written statement (maximum 300 words) or video presentation (maximum 2 minutes) please answer, “What can you bring to the artistic life of Hunter Valley Grammar School?”
The response should refer to ONE of the Hunter Valley Grammar School Values which the applicant believes is embodied or reflected in their creative work and achievement thus far.
Assessment of Application for HVGS Arts Scholarship
The student’s application will be reviewed by the HVGS Scholarship Committee and shortlisted candidates will be referred for an interview with members of the Committee.
The student’s portfolio will form the basis of the interview.
Shortlisted candidates applying in the Music or Drama will be required to attend an audition. Refer to the following page for audition details.
Refer to the following page for Portfolio and Audition Requirements for each Arts Subject Area.
Music Portfolio
Requirements
The Arts portfolio for students with a Music focus must include evidence of:
• Samples of work which demonstrate excellence in music. Samples may include recordings, video, etc.
• Achievements, certificates or awards to support the applicant’s level of ingenuity, achievement in music studies, music participation, independent learning and engagement.
• Artistic leadership, working with and mentoring peers.
• Record of AMEB/Trinity College Grading.
Students must have completed a minimum AMEB/Trinity award (per the table below) OR be able to supply a supporting letter from their current Music teacher with estimated grading equivalent to AMEB /Trinity grading. Full contact details and credentials must be noted in the supporting letter.
Entry Year in 2024 Award Requirement Focus Area
Years 7, 9, 10 equivalent of Grade 4+ Instrument or voice
Year 11 equivalent of Grade 5+ Instrument or voice
Visual Arts
Portfolio
Requirements
The Arts portfolio for students with a Visual Arts focus must include:
• 8-12 pieces of work showcasing a range of techniques and styles that demonstrate their artistic ability and potential. Sculptures/ installations or larger works can be included through digital means (ie: jpeg).
• A brief statement that explains the applicant’s main area of interest, creative process, inspiration, and artistic goals.
• Evidence of exhibition participation (not compulsory but please include if you have had any nonschool based exhibition experience)
Drama
Portfolio
Requirements
The Arts portfolio for students with a Drama focus must include evidence of:
• Samples of work which demonstrate excellence in drama. Samples should include recordings, video, etc.
• Achievements, certificates or awards to support the applicant’s level of ingenuity, achievement in drama studies, drama participation, independent learning and engagement.
• Artistic leadership, working with and mentoring peers.
Audition Requirements
Music
Interviews and auditions will be held on Wednesday 2
April 2025
An audition and interview will be required for shortlisted candidates. Students will be required to:
• Demonstrate their musical stylistic interpretation, intonation, tone and technique through performing TWO contrasting pieces of work.
At least one work must be accompanied (except piano students) by another musician/s. Applicants are responsible for providing their own accompanist/s.
Maximum time length allowed is 15 minutes in total.
• Demonstrate their technical skill, accuracy, rhythmic control and fluency through performing TWO contrasting technical exercises, scales or arpeggios. Maximum time length allowed is 5 minutes in total.
• Demonstrate their music reading ability by performing a sight-reading passage within the ability of the applicant.
Vocalists may be asked to repeat a short melodic phrase should music reading be an issue.
• Demonstrate their listening abilities through an aural test of pitch intervals, beat recognition, rhythm patterning and repeating a short melodic phrase on voice or instrument.
Drama
Interviews and auditions will be held on Wednesday 2 April 2025
Students will be required to present:
• 2 x pre-prepared monologues of contrasting styles, between 3-5 minutes each.
• 1 improvisation task (assigned during the audition)
Criteria
Students applying for the HVGS STEM Scholarship must:
• Meet the criteria of the HVGS STEM Scholarship detailed in the HVGS Scholarship Policy
• Not be receiving any other HVGS scholarship.
Application Requirements
All HVGS STEM Scholarship applicants must:
1. Submit an online Application and pay the $90 Scholarship Application Fee.
2. Submit a STEM Portfolio that addresses the criteria outlined in the Scholarship Policy for this scholarship. This can be evidenced by:
• Certificates, awards and other accomplishments that support the applicant’s level of achievement in academic, co-curricular, service or leadership activities related to STEM.
3. Submit their latest two school reports and NAPLAN test results. Applicants must also submit a brief statement outlining how the student’s skills and attitudes to learning have led to these results.
4. Provide a reference or statement of support from the their current school Principal attesting to the personal attributes of the student and the positive contribution the student will make to the ethos of our School.
5. In the form of a written statement (maximum 300 words) or video presentation (maximum 2 minutes) please answer, “What can you bring to STEM initiatives at Hunter Valley Grammar School?”
The response should refer to ONE of the Hunter Valley Grammar School Values which the applicant believes is embodied or reflected in their STEM related achievement thus far.
Assessment of Application for HVGS STEM Scholarship
The student’s application will be reviewed by the HVGS Scholarship Committee and shortlisted candidates will be referred for an interview with members of the Committee.
The student’s portfolio and statement will form the basis of the interview.
Students applying for the HVGS Indigenous Scholarship must:
• Meet the criteria of the HVGS Indigenous Scholarship detailed in the HVGS Scholarship Policy.
• Not be receiving any other HVGS scholarship.
Application Requirements
All HVGS Indigenous Scholarship applicants must:
1. Submit an online Application. The $90 Scholarship Application Fee is waived for this scholarship.
2. Submit evidence on letterhead or with official seal from the applicant’s Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), which confirms the applicant’s Aboriginality.
3. In the form of a written statement (maximum 300 words) or video presentation (maximum 2 minutes) or an oral recording (maximum 2 minutes) please answer, “What does Aboriginality mean to you and what is your cultural journey?”
The response should refer to ONE of the Hunter Valley Grammar School Values which resonates with the applicant most, and explain how they will enact that value at HVGS.
The response should demonstrate the applicant’s connection to their mob and a willingness to explore their culture.
4. Submit their latest two school reports and NAPLAN test results.
5. Provide name and contact details of someone from their Local Aboriginal Land Council who can act as a reference for the applicant.
Assessment of Application for HVGS Indigenous Scholarship
The student’s application will be reviewed by the HVGS Scholarship Committee and shortlisted candidates will be referred for an interview with members of the Committee.
The students’ statement and will form the basis of the interview. The applicant’s connection to their mob and culture will be further explored in the interview.
