Grant funding

There are over 600 non-OU funding bodies offering grants for postgraduate students studying or looking to study a masters, PGCE or research degree in the UK. Even if you’re not studying yet, you can access services to find an alternative funding option before you register for study.

Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding website

The Alternative Guide is an online funding resource for current and potential postgraduate students of any subject and any nationality.

If you’re looking to undertake a masters, PGCE or research degree with the OU, you might be able to gain additional grant funding from charities, trusts and foundations on the Alternative Guide. You could gain charity funding for fees, maintenance, conferences, field trips and travel.

The Alternative Guide also has interactive tools to help with application processes and personal statements.

If you’re a current student of The OU, you can register for access on the Alternative Guide website with your OU email address.

For potential students, you’ll need a PIN to access the service, which you’ll need to contact our Library’s Research Support Team for.

Find out more on the Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding website.

Postgraduate loans

If you’re studying towards an eligible masters qualification, you could get up to £12,167 paid directly to you over the duration of your qualification.

Learn more about postgraduate loans in England