Fee Funding Ideas

There are many external organisations that offer to fund prospective or current students, and it is well worth exploring this avenue as a way to secure funding for tuition fees. These organisations include charities, trusts, foundations and professional bodies, and they all have different funding provision, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.  There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of organisations that offer student funding, but surprisingly, relatively few students pursue this route as an alternative way to fund their studies.

Bear in mind though that most organisations have a limit on what they can award, and it is rare to secure full funding for the whole training from just one source. It is therefore advised that you apply to as many organisations as possible (after checking that you are eligible of course), and to try and secure multiple awards.  However, do also be aware that often applications are not successful, so make sure you have a contingency plan before you start your studies.

Where to search

The internet is undoubtedly the most useful way to start your search for funding opportunities. There are some excellent websites that offer details of relevant organisations who are happy to support students with further study.

You can generally access these websites by typing in relevant words into an internet search engine (for example, type in keywords like ‘postgraduate funding’ or ‘bursaries and scholarships’ to get further results).

Be warned – there is a massive amount of information out there so be prepared to spend many hours (if not days!) going through these sources.

If you would like to discuss your ideas feel free to contact us.

Top tips for funding applications

1. Be early.

   Start looking for funding early – around 10-12 months ideally – before you intend to start your training. If the deadline for an award has passed, it is unlikely that the organisation will accept late applications.

2. Check eligibility criteria.

   Most funding bodies have strict criteria for the allocation of funding so only apply if you meet their criteria.

3. Spend time on your application

   It is most important that you take care over your application and market your skills, interests and qualifications properly. Each funding body receives many applications every year so be sure yours stands out.  If you are making several applications don’t just copy and paste paragraphs onto different forms. Be sure to tailor your applications to fit each funding body.

4. Find a suitable referee.

   Start contacting potential referees now in case you are required to submit a reference with your application.

5. Have a contingency plan.

   It is important to be realistic about the chances of receiving funding and you should always look for alternative sources of funding for back-up.

Funding Masters Study Without a Scholarship

by Luke Blaxill 

https://www.findamasters.com/funding/guides/alternative-masters-funding.aspx

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