Funding your postgraduate course in the UK

Jacqui Goldring is the Marketing Officer at Swansea University.

Question: How to fund your postgraduate program in the UK – top tips and insights

Answer: Pursuing a postgraduate degree is an exciting and significant step in your academic and professional journey. However, the cost of postgraduate studies can be a concern. Luckily, there are numerous funding options to help you achieve your goals without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to navigating postgraduate funding in the UK, with a spotlight on the fantastic opportunities available at Swansea University.

1. Start with scholarships and bursaries

Many universities, including Swansea University, offer generous scholarships and bursaries to support postgraduate students. For example, Swansea University made over £12 million available last year for postgraduate scholarships.
Explore specific opportunities at Swansea, such as:

Taught Masters Scholarships: Various scholarships are available across subject areas.
International Scholarships: Tailored for students from outside of the UK.
Sanctuary Scholarship: Supporting specific groups to access higher education.
Research Scholarships: Ideal for PhD, MPhil or masters by research students.

Each scholarship has unique eligibility criteria and application deadlines, so it’s essential to review individual listings and act promptly.

2. Consider postgraduate loans

UK students can access postgraduate loans through the Student Loans Company. These loans are a practical option for covering tuition fees and living costs, offering flexible repayment terms. However, if you’d prefer to avoid borrowing, look into other avenues like savings or part-time work.

3. Explore alternative sources of funding

If scholarships don’t cover the full cost of your postgraduate studies, you can consider these additional options:

Charities, foundations and trusts

Numerous organisations offer funds tailored to specific groups or subject areas. For example:

Occupational-based funding: The Leverhulme Foundation supports students connected to professions like chemistry or retail.
Geographic-specific funds: Trusts like the John Moran Educational Trust (Liverpool residents) or the Bridge Educational Trust (Dorset residents) provide regional support.

Detailed directories, such as The Grants Register and The Directory of Grant Making Trusts, are excellent resources for finding these opportunities.

The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding

This invaluable resource was created by students who secured significant funding through creative methods. It includes tips, example applications and over 250 links to charities and voluntary sector funding. Swansea University provides free access to this guide for its students – simply email alternative.funding.guide@swansea.ac.uk to get started.

4. Tailor your approach

Securing funding requires a proactive and targeted approach – follow these steps to improve your chances:

Research thoroughly: Understand what each funding source requires.
Tailor your applications: Highlight your achievements, goals and why you’re a strong candidate.
Meet deadlines: Many scholarships operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Leverage university support

Your university’s careers service, funding office or postgraduate admissions team can provide valuable guidance. Swansea University, for instance, offers one-on-one support and access to exclusive resources like the Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding.

Final thoughts

Funding a postgraduate degree may seem daunting, but with careful planning and perseverance, it’s entirely achievable. Explore every avenue, from university scholarships to alternative funding sources, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

Your postgraduate journey is a powerful step toward achieving your academic and career aspirations—and with the right funding in place, it’s a step well within your reach.