Postgraduate taught programmes at University of Sheffield: Fees and Funding

Starting a postgraduate taught (PGT) programme is a significant investment in your future, and understanding the financial aspects is key to a smooth application process. The University of Sheffield offers various ways to finance your studies, covering both tuition fees and living costs.

Here is a clear guide to the fees, the financial support options available, and the typical costs you should plan for.

1. Tuition Fees: What to Expect

Tuition fees for PGT programmes at Sheffield vary widely based on the course, the academic department, and your fee status (Home or International).

A. How to Find Your Fee

You must check the specific course page for the most accurate and up-to-date fee for the year you plan to start. For reference, fees generally fall within these ranges:

Home Students: Fees for a PGT course can range from approximately £5,000 up to £20,000+ for certain intensive, lab-based, or professional degrees (e.g., MSc, MA).
International Students: Fees for international students are generally higher, starting from around £22,000 up to £40,000+ depending on the subject area.

Important Note: The fee quoted is typically for the full course duration (usually one year full-time or two years part-time) and covers tuition, examinations, and graduation costs. You should also check the course page for any required additional costs, such as mandatory field trips, equipment, or materials.

2. Funding Options for Home Students 🇬🇧

If you are classified as a Home student, your primary funding option may be the UK government’s Master's Loan.

The UK Government Postgraduate Master’s Loan

This is a non-means-tested loan (meaning it's not based on your household income) designed to cover both tuition fees and living costs.

Maximum Loan Amount: The total loan amount is subject to change each year but is typically over £12,000 for the full course. This amount is paid in instalments directly to you.
Eligibility: To be eligible, you must usually be:
A UK national, Irish citizen, or have settled status, and normally live in England.
Under 60 on the first day of your course.
Studying a full, stand-alone Master’s course (at least 180 credits).
Repayment: Repayments begin after you complete or leave your course and are earning over the repayment threshold set by the government (currently £21,000 per year).

3. Scholarships and Discounts for All Students

The University offers a range of financial awards based on merit, background, or previous study.

The University of Sheffield Alumni Discount

If you previously graduated from an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Sheffield, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount. This discount is available for most PGT courses.

Discount for UG Graduates: If your previous degree was a Sheffield undergraduate degree, you may receive a discount of up to 20% on your PGT tuition fee, usually capped at a maximum value (e.g., £2,500).
Discount for PG Graduates: If you previously studied at the postgraduate level at Sheffield, you may be entitled to a smaller percentage discount, typically 10%, also capped.

Key Rule: The discount is applied only to the self-funded part of your fee (fees you or your family pay, including the Master's Loan). Fully sponsored students are not eligible.

Other Scholarships and Bursaries

The University offers numerous other competitive funding opportunities, including:

International Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships specifically for overseas students, often requiring a separate application.
Departmental Awards: Some academic departments offer their own scholarships or bursaries based on academic excellence.
Hardship Funds: Available for students who encounter unexpected financial difficulties during their studies.

4. Planning for Living Costs

Remember that your total cost of study includes your tuition fees plus your living costs. Sheffield is generally a very affordable student city in the UK, but planning is essential.

Your estimated living costs should cover:

Accommodation: Rent for University-managed or private accommodation.
Food and Utilities: Groceries, electricity, gas, and internet.
Travel: Local bus travel or other transportation costs.
Course Costs: Books, printing, and specific course materials.
Personal Expenses: Social activities, mobile phone, and other necessities.

The University provides excellent guidance and tools (like a Student Funding Calculator) to help you estimate these costs accurately based on your lifestyle.