Photo Credit: © United Childrens Music Project
Upcoming Student Opportunities
El Sistema USA has compiled a list of student opportunities that are relevant to current El Sistema USA students from the field. These include summer music festivals, youth leadership opportunities, scholarships, and webinars.
Do you have a student opportunity that you would like us to add to this page? We invite our network to submit student opportunities for ESUSA to share.
Fortissima 2025 at the Colburn School Application Deadline
Fortissima at the Colburn School empowers young women from underrepresented minorities in classical music with online leadership training, mentorship, and a weeklong residency. Participants gain personalized artistic support, workshops, and performance opportunities, inspiring careers in classical music.
Common Application for Summer Study Application
The Common Application for Summer Study, developed in partnership with Equity Arc and several top summer programs, allows eligible students to apply to multiple partner programs through a streamlined application and audition process. Each partner program offers at least one full-tuition fellowship, with additional financial support available based on resources. Students can autofill their application for other programs they are eligible for, and Equity Arc covers the application fee for all eligible students.
J.W. Pepper 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program Application Deadline
The J.W. Pepper 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program awards scholarships to students passionate about music education transitioning to college. Administered by Scholarship America®, it selects recipients based on eligibility and criteria to support their educational journey.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Higher-Education Financial Planning for Low-Income Families
This webinar offers strategies for low-income music students to manage higher education expenses, including budgeting, cost-saving, student loans, and loan forgiveness. Ideal for students, families, instructors, and program managers seeking guidance to navigate financial aid and minimize debt effectively.
YOLA National Festival Application Deadline
The YOLA National Festival provides young musicians with free high-level orchestral training, chamber music, and performances under world-renowned conductors. Travel, lodging, meals, and programming are included. Participants join either the Symphony or Overture Orchestra based on age and skill.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Navigating the Financial Aid & Appeals Process
Renowned faculty member Peter Slowik and admissions professional Fred Peterbark share insights on scholarships, financial aid negotiation, and student loans. This session supports prospective music students, families, instructors, and program managers preparing for college and navigating the financial aid process.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Empowering Your Voice & Developing Self-Advocacy in Higher Education Spaces
This session empowers young musicians to succeed in collegiate and conservatory settings by teaching self-assessment, identifying assets and needs, and effective self-advocacy. Ideal for prospective students, families, instructors, program managers, and administrators supporting students’ musical journeys.
