How I Paid For My Masters

This blog has been co-written by Isa and The University of Edinburgh. Isa is currently studying MSc Developmental Science at the university, and is originally from the US.

I am mostly funded through a loan

My studies are primarily funded by loans through FAFSA (US Federal Student Aid). My loans are disbursed in instalments and paid directly to the university. I’m here for 12 months, and the tuition fee payments are split into three separate instalments, so there is a disbursement every four months. After completing all the initial forms, I don't have to do anything more; it’s hands-off from this point forward.

I pay the remaining fees through other means

The loan doesn’t cover the full tuition fee and so I pay the remaining fees through other means. I did get a small scholarship from my undergrad university. I don't think every university in the US offers that. But it’s certainly something to talk about with your home university, to see if they have any options for that.

Additionally, I worked all throughout my undergrad. I had a full scholarship, so I was able to save some money while I was in school. I’m also fortunate to get some assistance from my parents in terms of travel costs and stuff like that.

I have worked a bit while I've been in Edinburgh, although my visa has some limitations on the amount of part-time work I can do. For me, it's 20 hours a week. It just depends on your situation. Part-time work can certainly help to offset the cost of being here.

It’s worth applying for any scholarships you’re eligible for – but they are competitive

In terms of finding out about scholarship options, I know the University of Edinburgh does have some, but they can be limited depending on the programme that you're in. I think I qualified to apply for one scholarship, but they are quite competitive, and I didn’t get that one. I did, thankfully, find other ways to fund it, like my parents’ assistance, my savings, and through working.

One piece of advice? Do your research!

If I had to offer prospective postgrad students one piece of practical advice about funding, I would say: do your research.

I feel like there's a lot of places that can also help you with scholarships and funding. You just have to be there and ask the right questions. Talk to the scholarship team and the funding team at the universities you’re applying to and seeing what your options are.

Moreover, while you’re in your home country, seek out those scholarships, or just ask people – any companies or connections that you have. See if your undergrad university has opportunities for scholarships that would apply beyond your undergraduate. Think about working and saving up what you can before you start your postgrad – this will also definitely help you a little bit in terms of paying for the fees. I think all these things will help you figure out the fees!

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