Thinking about a master’s or PhD but worried about the cost? You’re not alone.
At Edge Hill University, the Money Advice Team helps postgraduates navigate loans, bursaries and budgeting so they can focus on their studies, not their spreadsheet.
Edge Hill University primes itself on its student experience and providing the platform for all students to fulfil their potential and goals. It’s our job to support students in every aspect of their journey and that includes clear, practical guidance on funding postgraduate study.
We sat down with Lyndsey Rimmer, Student Funding and Success Manager from our Money Advice Team , who provided us with essential tips for students when planning and budgeting before starting a postgraduate course.
Review your tuition fees
“We would recommend Postgraduate students to review their tuition fee for their chosen course and then deduct this from their Postgraduate Loan to see what is remaining for their living costs.
“For example, the current Postgraduate loan is £13,206 and a full-time course could potentially cost up to £9,790 per year. This leaves a total of £3,416 for living costs. However, continuing Edge Hill students need to explore if they qualify for a 20% reduction in their tuition fee meaning they could have up to £5,374 or more available towards living costs depending on the course fee.”
Know how Postgraduate funding is different
“Many students are surprised by the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate funding. A Postgraduate loan is intended as a contribution towards both tuition fees and living costs, so it’s important to plan and explore all available funding options. Everyone’s circumstances are different and the Money Advice Team are here to help guide you so please do get in touch with us if you need help with planning your finances for postgraduate study.”
Find out if you’re eligible for undergraduate funding
“An important reminder is that there are some postgraduate courses that offer undergraduate funding. For example, this type of funding is applicable through PGCE routes or MSc Nursing. This means students might be able to access tuition fee funding and maintenance funding, rather than just a Postgraduate Loan which is intended as a contribution to both.”
Ensure all payments are in sync
“When planning your budget, it is important to look at the timing of postgraduate payments so they align with when tuition fees and rent/other expenses are due.
“Students are encouraged to explore additional sources of income to help cover their overall study costs and our careers team can help with that.”
The Money Advice team are available to offer guidance on all money-related matters including student funding, personal finances and advice on the Student Support Fund.
Through the Money Advice portal, you can:
- Book a one-to-one appointment with a Money Advisor
- Explore and book on events and workshops
For more information, resources and support please visit the Money Advice webpage.
September 11, 2026