Whether Student Finance will fund a Master’s degree depends largely on where you’re studying (England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland) and your nationality/residency status. In England, the funding landscape changed significantly in recent years.
England: Student Finance England (SFE) typically offers a postgraduate loan to eligible students pursuing a Master’s degree. This loan is intended to contribute towards tuition fees and living costs. The amount you can borrow is usually fixed and may not cover the entire cost of your program. For example, for the academic year 2024-25, the maximum loan amount is £12,167. Importantly, this loan is not means-tested, meaning your household income doesn’t affect the amount you can borrow. However, eligibility criteria apply, including nationality/residency requirements and your study intensity (usually a minimum course length is required).
You’ll start repaying the loan the April after you graduate, and only when you’re earning over a certain threshold. The repayment threshold is updated periodically. Repayments are a percentage of your income above the threshold. Any outstanding balance is usually written off after a certain period (currently 30 years for Plan 5 loans).
Scotland: The Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) offers funding for postgraduate study to eligible Scottish students. This can include a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan. The support available often depends on the specific course and your individual circumstances. SAAS also provides some bursaries and grants, which don’t need to be repaid.
Wales: Student Finance Wales (SFW) provides a postgraduate loan similar to that in England. Eligibility criteria and repayment terms are broadly aligned. The loan is designed to contribute to both tuition fees and living costs.
Northern Ireland: Student Finance NI offers postgraduate loans to eligible students. Again, the amount available is a fixed loan intended to help with tuition fees and living expenses. Eligibility and repayment terms are generally similar to those in England and Wales.
Important Considerations:
- Eligibility: Check the specific eligibility criteria for Student Finance in your region. This typically involves nationality/residency requirements and course eligibility.
- Course Type: Not all Master’s courses are eligible for funding. Research the specific requirements for your course.
- Part-time Study: Funding options for part-time study may differ from those for full-time study. Check the relevant regulations.
- Combined Funding: In some cases, you may be able to supplement your Student Finance loan with other sources of funding, such as scholarships, bursaries, or grants offered by universities or other organizations.
- Changes: Student finance regulations can change, so always refer to the official websites of Student Finance England, SAAS, Student Finance Wales, or Student Finance NI for the most up-to-date information.
In conclusion, Student Finance can fund a Master’s degree, but the details depend on your location and individual circumstances. Thorough research and careful planning are essential.