Many graduate students are supported financially by grants from United Kingdom agencies such as the Research Councils. Similarly, some students from abroad receive funding from corresponding overseas research councils and foundations. There are also scholarships and bursaries available from Cambridge sources e.g. from the University’s Vice Chancellor’s award scheme or the Cambridge Trusts. In addition, as a result of generous benefactions and donations, the College is also able to offer scholarships.

Some students fund their studies from personal or family’s resources. As individual needs and preferences vary widely it is difficult to specify an accurate figure for the annual cost of graduate study in Cambridge. As well as the University and College fees you need to allow for food, accommodation and such items of personal expenditure as books, entertainment, clothing and travel. However the University’s Student Registry does estimate the minimum sum required and each student’s place is only confirmed after a financial responsibility form has been completed confirming that the necessary funds are available for the full course.

Students whose University and College fees are not being paid by a funding body will receive an annual fees bill at the beginning of the academic year. The quarterly College bill otherwise includes items relating to accommodation, food and bar purchases. Accommodation charges are payable in advance each quarter.

All graduate students, whether funded by State, College or other educational bodies, or from private resources, are expected to be able to cover the full costs associated with their period of study in Cambridge in line with their financial responsibility statement completed before confirmation of their University place. However, limited hardship funds are available to those who experience an unforeseeable material change of circumstance after arrival.

Through generous benefactions over the years, Corpus Christi is able to offer small grants of up to £600 to graduate students to contribute towards research expenses, e.g. for the attendance of conferences, or for fieldwork essential to their research. Small grant applications should be made after arrival and prior to the expenditure.

Application for limited discretionary childcare bursaries may be made after arrival.

Financial support for graduate students who have completed the required period of three years research is not normally available. However, in cases of ill-health or other circumstances beyond a student’s control, financial support of value according to need is awarded to cover living costs for a period of three to six months.

There is also an annual competition for election to stipendiary Research Fellowships, which are normally awarded to those who have completed or are soon to complete their Ph.D. These Fellowships carry a salary and full membership of the Governing Body of the College for a period of three years. The subject areas for  this competition vary from year to year.