Compare the Award With Your Costs
Ask the university which tuition rate applies and how much of that rate the award covers. List living costs separately, then add relevant travel, immigration and research-related costs that are not included. Use official information for your circumstances.
Plan Across the Whole Course
Cambridge’s finance guidance separates tuition, maintenance and funding. It also asks applicants to consider future cost increases and exchange-rate changes. For doctoral study, examine whether your budget and funding extend through any additional completion period.
Get Answers to Specific Questions
Instead of asking only “Is this fully funded?”, ask whether overseas fees are covered, how long support lasts and which costs remain your responsibility. Keep the written answer with your shortlist. A university’s budget estimate is not a guarantee of your personal living costs.
Your Next-Step Checklist
- Confirm fee status and the amount the award covers.
- Budget for the full duration, including possible gaps.
- Check current immigration conditions through official guidance.
Official Reading
Read the official school, university, funder or government sources below.
Cambridge: Postgraduate Finance