The Luke Westlake Scholarship 2026
Supporting talented working-class actors as they move from training into the professional industry through financial assistance, career development and access to industry professionals.
2026 Scholarship Timeline
Applications are now open, with the shortlist announced after the application window closes and the award evening taking place in December.
Applications open
Applications for the 2026 scholarship are now open.
Applications close
Applications must be submitted before the deadline.
Shortlist announced
Shortlisted applicants will be announced after applications close.
Award evening
The scholarship recipient will be announced at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre.
Who Can Apply?
The Luke Westlake Scholarship is designed to support working-class actors currently studying in the UK who are preparing to move from training into the professional industry.
Applicants should only apply if they meet the core eligibility criteria below.
- You must be a second-year drama school or university student at the time of application.
- You must be studying a drama, acting, theatre or theatre-related course at BA level.
- You must identify as working class.
Applications are now open. Please check that you meet the eligibility criteria above before submitting your application.
What the Scholarship Provides
The Luke Westlake Scholarship provides support designed to help one actor begin their professional career with more confidence, practical resources and industry access.
Career-enhancing prizes
Subscriptions, memberships, professional resources and practical tools to support the transition into the industry.
Career development
Development opportunities designed to support graduation and the first steps into a professional acting career.
Mentoring and guidance
Access to actors, agents, casting professionals, creatives and industry supporters.
BAFTA bursary pathway
Shortlisted actors will be eligible to apply for BAFTA's Prince William Bursary after graduation.
Shortlisted actors can access BAFTA's Prince William Bursary applications
Thanks to Just Add Milk's partnership with the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, shortlisted applicants are eligible to apply for BAFTA's Prince William Bursary after graduation.
This Year's Scholarship Prize Package
The 2026 prize package brings together financial support, professional memberships, career development, training, creative services and direct access to leading industry professionals.
Additional prizes and industry opportunities may be added during the 2026 application period.
Confirmed prizes
1yr Membership
Career Development Sessions
1yr Subscription
1yr Subscription
Screen Course in LA
£100 Script Voucher
Headshot Package
1yr IMDb Pro Subscription
£150 Theatre Ticket Voucher
Standard Level Stage Combat Course
Accounts & Tax Return
£250 JAM Workshops Voucher
£250 Towards LA Flights (One on One Next Level Course)
£500 Towards Living Costs Upon Graduating
Professional Voicereel
1 Acting Coach Session
Professional industry meetings
The scholarship recipient will also receive direct access to leading agents and casting professionals through one-to-one industry meetings.
Professional industry meeting
Professional industry meeting
Professional industry meeting
Professional industry meeting
Professional industry meeting
2026 Scholarship Sponsors
The Luke Westlake Scholarship 2026 is supported by generous sponsors and partners committed to improving access to professional training and the acting industry for working-class actors.
