Manhattan School of Music

Manhattan School of Music is a private conservatory in New York, founded 1917, with roughly 543 undergraduates and a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, describing itself as 'a premier international conservatory' that 'takes full advantage of New York's abundant learning and performance opportunities'. MSM is unusually blunt with international applicants, and a Kazakh family should read the warning before anything else: 'A note for international students: all international students must be prepared to meet the costs of education and living expenses in this country with personal or family funds, as it is unlikely that any scholarships for which you may be eligible will be enough to cover all expenses associated with your cost of education.' MSM's awards are capped: the President's Award and comparable scholarships 'are limited to a maximum amount of 50% of tuition.' Against a published tuition of USD 60,800, that leaves a substantial family contribution.