foundation of Mr Charles D. D. Gibbs - Music Gibbs Prize

What you get

If you win the ‘Music Gibbs Prize’ at the University of Oxford – the prize with the highest cash reward – you will receive a one-off cash prize. The main prize is approximately 1,160 EUR (1,000 GBP). Two smaller awards go to the runners-up (known as ‘Proxime Accessit’): approximately 580 EUR (500 GBP) for second place and approximately 350 EUR (300 GBP) for third place. The prize is funded by a bequest from Charles D. D. Gibbs. It recognises outstanding achievement in your music modules and final examinations; it is therefore not intended to cover your tuition fees.

Who can apply

• University: You’re studying at the University of Oxford.
• Study phase: You are in your final year of study and are currently sitting your final exams for your Bachelor’s degree (the ‘Final Honour School’).
• Field of study: You’re studying music.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Results: You are amongst the very best in your music lessons and in the public examinations. If no candidate is deemed good enough, the examiners may decide not to award the prize this year.

How to apply

Normally, you do not need to apply at all. The prize is awarded automatically on the basis of your examination and performance results. The only exception is if the course description for Music states that you must submit an entry.

How realistic are your chances?

This is an award for the best in their year group, not an open scholarship. Only finalists from ‘Oxford Music’ are eligible, and as a rule, only one person wins the main prize each year. You cannot apply for it or promote yourself for it; your chances therefore depend on whether you are among the very best in your year group in the exams. The two runners-up prizes increase your chances of winning slightly.