Need-Based Financial Aid

This year, Sunset Chamberfest is introducing need-based financial aid to alleviate its program costs for more young composers. As Sunset Chamberfest transitions to this new system of financial aid, we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

How does financial aid factor into admissions?

Admissions to the Young Composers Workshop is need-blind. This means, we consider the merits of an application and make a determination before looking at any documents pertaining to financial aid. Our review of a financial aid application does not affect our initial determination whether or not to accept a young composer.

Who is eligible for need-based financial aid?

Historically, Sunset Chamberfest awarded full scholarships to two high-school participants who only had to demonstrate their enrollment in the free lunch program. We understand that each applicant’s financial situation is unique, and are hoping to support more students who enroll in the Young Composers Workshop.

If you are enrolled in the free lunch program at school, or your family is enrolled in SNAP or TANF, we highly encourage you to submit a financial aid application.

If you are not enrolled in the programs listed above, you are still welcome to submit a financial aid application, although we expect to aid those in less fortunate financial circumstances first.

Other means of financial aid

If you are currently enrolled in a college or equivalent institution, check to see if you qualify for a grant to participate in the Young Composers Workshop. If so, you are more than welcome to request any necessary letters or materials from Sunset Chamberfest. To inquire, please write to sunsetchamberfest@gmail.com and write “Outside Grant Financial Aid” in the subject line.

What documents are reviewed for financial aid?

All applicants for financial aid are required to submit their Parents’ 2022 Form 1040 Tax Return. If you are a college student, and/or no longer a dependent, you may submit your own Form 1040 Tax Return.

You must also complete the our Parents’ Monthly Cash Flow Statement Form (you can download this here). If you are no longer a dependent, you may complete this form for yourself.

If you qualify for the free lunch program at school, or your family is enrolled in SNAP or TANF, you will need to submit documentation verifying this.

You can also strengthen your case for financial need by submitting fee waivers for any standardized testing or letter on school stationery stating your qualification for the free lunch program. These must be signed by a college official or high school guidance counselor.

If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to email sunsetchamberfest@gmail.com. The festival will work with successful applicants to support their participation in the Young Composers Workshop.