UK and EU master’s student funding

If you are a prospective master’s student from the UK or EU, there are potential sources of funding available.

Funding database

Our funding opportunities database contains details of the major student award schemes offered by the British government and other organisations, as well as a number of awards offered by the University and its Faculties and Schools.

Postgraduate loans (PGL)

Postgraduate loans are available for eligible students studying taught and research master’s courses. The maximum loan available for 2019/20 is £10,906. Applications open in late Spring.

UK postgraduate students

The main source of funding for UK master’s students is the master’s loan but additional funding could be available in the form of Disabled Student Allowance, scholarships, bursaries and grants. 

EU postgraduate students

Funding support for EU students applying for university places in the 2020/21 academic year has been confirmed by the UK government. This means that EU nationals starting a higher education course in 2020/21 will remain eligible for the Home rate of tuition fees and can also apply for a Student Finance England loan. 

The UK government has stated that this is not dependent on the outcome of their negotiations with the EU, i.e. even if the UK leaves the EU without a deal then this financial support will remain in place.  

The UK government has also confirmed that EU nationals will also remain eligible to apply for Research Council PhD studentships at UK institutions in 2020/21 to help cover costs for the duration of their study. 

Manchester Alumni Scholarship Schemes

Recent graduates who start a master’s course in the Faculty of Humanities or the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health from September 2019 onwards may be eligible for this scholarship.

Manchester Master's Bursary

A number of bursaries for students from widening participation backgrounds are available for students on master's courses. 

Charities and alternative funding sources

Charities, foundations and trusts provide an alternative range of funding and awards for master’s study for which you might be able to apply.