Tuition Assistance

Making Music Education Possible for Every Student


At The Music School of Delaware, we believe cost should never be a barrier to learning music. That’s why we offer two ways to help families afford lessons: Tuition Assistance, which is open to all students with financial need, and the Northrop Endowed Fund for Music Education, a special fund with unique eligibility guidelines based on the wishes of its donor.

Our new online applications make it easier and faster to apply, with a secure process that keeps your information confidential. Whether you’re brand new to the school or returning for another year, we encourage you to explore the options below and apply early! Funds are limited and awarded as applications are received.


Scroll down to see the comparison table for a quick overview of both programs, and browse the FAQ section for more details on eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect after you submit your application.


Frequently Asked Questions


What is the difference between Tuition Assistance and the Northrop Endowed Fund?
Tuition Assistance is open to any student who demonstrates financial need, regardless of instrument, age, or school type, and is based on our income eligibility tiers.
The Northrop Endowed Fund is a special, donor-restricted scholarship available only to eligible school-aged students who meet specific criteria.

If I’m not sure which program I qualify for, which should I apply for?
Apply for Tuition Assistance. If your application suggests you may also be eligible for the Northrop Fund, our team will contact you for the next steps.

Do I need to complete a separate application for each student?
Yes. A separate application must be submitted for each individual student seeking financial aid or Northrop grant funds, even within the same household.


Tuition Assistance


Who can apply for Tuition Assistance?
Any family enrolling in The Music School of Delaware who demonstrates financial need can apply, regardless of instrument, age, or school type.

What income levels qualify for Tuition Assistance?
Assistance is determined by household size and income, with full or partial support available up to a household income of $150,000. Special circumstances (such as medical expenses or job loss) may be considered on a case-by-case basis even above that threshold.

How much tuition can be covered?
Depending on income and household size, tuition assistance can cover 10%–100% of tuition costs for up to three enrollments per academic year and summer session.

When can I apply for Tuition Assistance?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted for the year.


Northrop Endowed Fund for Music Education


Who is eligible for the Northrop Endowed Fund?
To qualify, students must meet all the following requirements:
  • Be a school-aged child
  • Have not received a grant from the Northrop Endowed Fund for Music Education for more than 1 year prior.
  • Play an eligible instrument (guitar and related instruments are excluded).
  • Be a U.S. citizen.
  • Not attend a charter school.
  • Have an annual household income of $150,000 or less.
How much tuition can be covered?
First-year recipients may be eligible for 100% tuition coverage (up to $5000), and second-year recipients may be eligible for 50% tuition coverage (up to $2500). Awards given July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 can be applied to the Summer 2025 Session and the 2025-2026 Academic Year.

Can I apply for both Tuition Assistance and the Northrop Fund?
Yes. If you meet the eligibility requirements for both, you may apply for both programs.

How soon will I know if I am approved?
Applicants will be notified within 10 business days after submitting a complete application.

Why does the Northrop Fund have restrictions?
These requirements reflect the donor’s original wishes for the use of the endowed fund, ensuring that it is awarded according to their intent. The Music School of Delaware is unable to change or waive these requirements.


Tuition Assistance & Northrop Fund Programs Comparison


  Tuition Assistance Northrop Endowed Fund
Who Can Apply Any student with financial need School-aged students only
Instrument
Restrictions		 None Guitar and related instruments are excluded
School Type Any Cannot attend a charter school
Citizenship Requirement None Must be a U.S. Citizen
Living Location Requirement None Permanent address must be in the U.S.
Income Limit Up to $150,000 (special cases considered above) Up to $150,000
Years of Eligible Study Any First or second year only


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This organization is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com.

The Music School of Delaware is proud to be an active partner in the IN Wilmington Arts Campaign.
 
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