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Postgraduate fees can vary a lot, and funding isn’t always straightforward. Here's the info you need, including funding options, and where to find support.

    You’ll be able to see how much postgraduate fees are when you search for courses. Getting funding for postgraduate study isn’t always as straightforward as the process for undergraduate study, but there’s still a range of options you can look into.


    New postgraduate loans

    You could be eligible for a loan from the UK government of up to £11,295.



    Tuition fee reductions

    Depending upon your country of origin, postgraduate tuition fees may be cut, because of government support given to your university. Often tuition fees are reduced at postgraduate level, with the difference made up by a course provider’s public funding.

    Studying a second master’s, or another ‘equivalent or lower qualification’ (ELQ)?

    If you’re now doing another postgraduate course at the same level as one you’ve already completed, you’ll have to pay the full tuition fees.

    International and EU students

    In 2020/21, EU students are eligible for the course provider’s public funding, but other international students usually pay the full costs. However, you may be eligible for some of the other funding options outlined below. In 2021/22, EU student fee status and eligibility for financial support will be subject to changes due to the end of the Brexit transition period.


    Search for funding

    • If you’re looking to fund your postgraduate course, take a look at the Scholarship Search website, which has information and guides to help you research your study.
    • Use the Prospects postgraduate funding search.
    • Search for funding at The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding Online website.  
    • Look for Government funding from the seven UK Research Councils – for this option, you’d normally apply through your course provider. They may donate funds to your university for a limited number of scholarships for students who study a taught master's followed by a PhD. Other funding bodies exist – e.g. Arts & Humanities Research Council – but most will also ask universities to allocate their money. 
    • Apply for Studentships – postgraduate positions that come with funding.
    • Employers are also potential sources of funding.
    • Charitable trusts and societies – many offer a modest number of small grants. Your university careers service may have a directory of these organisations.
    • UK students wanting to study at postgraduate level in Northern Ireland  some financial assistance is provided by the Department for the Economy.
    • Scottish students wanting to study at postgraduate level in Scotland  some financial assistance is provided by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland.

    Apply for a loan

    • UK, EU, and international students enrolling on postgraduate and professional courses may be able to use StudentFunder to fund their studies. 

    How to manage your money during your course

    Many students wonder how they'll afford everything during their studies. There's a lot to handle – from tuition fees and accommodation, to food, course materials and a social life.

    1. Figure out a budget – making your money last through each semester can be hard, so in our Undergraduate section, you can find a budgeting checklist so you’ll know how much money you can spend.
    2. Balance your work and studies – if you work part-time during your studies, here’s how to find a good balance, plus how you can find a job.
    3. Manage debts – many of us end up with debts one way or another, but rather than panicking about them, the important thing is to find a way to make them manageable.

    Student support

    Course providers can offer support for any worries, anxieties or individual needs you have.

    • Pop into your students’ union to join socials, activities, and societies.
    • Get support for worries or concerns about university life.