St Catherine’s School is a leader in girls’ education, known for an innovative, outstanding academic program and the depth and breadth of opportunities available to every student.

Our scholarships recognise girls who excel academically, creatively and in character, and who will contribute to the life of the School. Offered at our key entry points of Years 5, 7 and 9, they open doors to learning and growth that benefit not only each recipient but the whole St Catherine’s community.

2028 Scholarships will be opening 20 November 2026. 

The range of scholarships available and criteria are outlined below.  The Scholarship exam will be held on Saturday 13 February 2027.

Scholarship applications close Friday 5 February 2027.  Please note that we do not accept late applications.

Jeanie Hood Scholarship

The Jeanie Hood Scholarship, named in honour of the woman who founded the School in 1896, is new this year. It is available for students looking at entering the School in Year 5 or 7 in 2028. It aligns with our School values and the type of students we seek to recruit – ethical and influential leaders who in turn, will contribute towards the creation of a good society

• Eligible for new students entering Years 5 and 7 in 2028.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 75-minute interactive session (held on 17 February 2027) where they will take part in a range of collaborative problem-solving and communication activities. We will be observing their interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication, problem solving and ethical judgement.
• Scholarships to be awarded on the basis of the application, the results of the written examination and the observations during the interactive session for the shortlisted candidates.

Academic Excellence

Academic Scholarships are offered for entry into Year 5, Year 7 and Year 9 in 2028. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of outstanding academic achievement and is subject to the student maintaining a high level of academic achievement.

• Eligible for current and prospective students entering Years 5, 7 or 9 in 2028.
• Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability.
• Academic scholarships may only be awarded to students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents.
• Scholarships to be awarded on the basis of the results of a written examination, previous school reports, NAPLAN report, and an interview with the Principal.

General Excellence Scholarships

General Excellence Scholarships are offered for entry into Year 5, 7 and 9 in 2028. Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in areas such as Sport, Performing Arts, Public Speaking, Visual Arts, Leadership and Service.

• Eligible new students entering Years 5, 7 or 9 in 2028.
• Scholarships to be awarded based on a one-page document highlighting the area of excellence, coupled with the results of the written examination and an interview with the Principal.
• Scholarships may only be awarded to students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Music Scholarships

Music Scholarships are offered for entry into Year 5 and 7 in 2028.

• Eligible to both current and prospective students entering Years 5 and 7 in 2028.
• Awarded on the basis of the written examination, previous school reports, NAPLAN report, interview with the Principal, and a music audition with the Head of Music (shortlisted candidates only).
• Candidates must perform two stylistically contrasting pieces in a music audition.
• Students will be asked to play one or two examples of their own technical work, and they should expect to sight-read a short musical excerpt on their instrument/s.
• If the student is a multi-instrumentalist, scales and exercises must be prepared for each instrument.
  • Two contrasting pieces must be prepared for each instrument. St Catherine’s may choose to hear all or any part of the material that is being prepared.
• The scholarship will provide free instrumental tuition (16 lessons per semester) on one instrument for the duration of study at St Catherine’s School. (The duration of the instrumental lessons provided will be determined at the discretion of the Head of Music based on the particular ability level of the student each year.)
• As a guideline, the following AMEB Grade levels or equivalent are suggested for entry at each year level. However, the School also encourages potential, with a particular focus on girls wishing to contribute to the School on specific instruments, such as Brass and Woodwind instruments.
  • • AMEB Grade 3 level for Years 5 and 6 entry
    • AMEB Grade 4 level for Year 7 entry
    • AMEB Grade 5 level for Year 8 entry
    • AMEB Grade 6 level for Year 9 and 10 entry
• Musicality and a willingness to be a part of a thriving program are of most interest to the School and recipients will be expected to be involved in both the school ensemble program and as solo performers.
• Applicants will be shortlisted for an audition.
  • Candidates will be advised of their audition time once Scholarship applications close.  Please note, St Catherine’s is unable to provide individual feedback regarding music auditions and/or scholarship applications.
  • Music candidates are to provide their own accompanist at the audition.
  • We do not accept music recordings or videos as part of the music scholarship application.

Scholarships may only be awarded to students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Boarding Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to students who can demonstrate their capacity to contribute to the life of the boarding house, particularly to excellence in academic endeavour and leadership.

• Eligible for new students entering Years 7–10 in 2028
• Scholarships will be awarded on the basis of the written examination, previous school reports, NAPLAN report and an interview with the Principal
• Recipients will be expected to maintain a commitment to studies and make a significant contribution to boarding life at Illawarra House
• Scholarships may only be awarded to students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents