Financing Your PGCE: A Guide to Available Support

Embarking on a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a significant investment in your future. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses during the course can be daunting. Thankfully, a variety of funding options are available to help aspiring teachers finance their PGCE year.

Tuition Fee Loans

The primary source of funding for most PGCE students is a tuition fee loan from Student Finance England (or the equivalent body in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland). This loan covers the full cost of your tuition fees, regardless of your household income. Repayments only begin once you are earning above a certain threshold, currently around £27,295 per year. The repayment amount is then based on your income, making it a manageable and proportionate system.

Maintenance Loans

In addition to tuition fee loans, you can also apply for a maintenance loan to help with living costs. The amount you receive depends on your household income and where you study. Students living in London typically receive a higher maintenance loan than those studying elsewhere. This loan also requires repayment after graduation, following the same income-contingent repayment schedule as the tuition fee loan.

PGCE Bursaries and Scholarships

Bursaries and scholarships are non-repayable awards available for certain PGCE subjects. The availability and amount vary depending on the subject and the awarding institution. Subjects in high demand, such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and languages, often attract the largest bursaries. The Department for Education website provides the most up-to-date information on available bursaries. Universities offering PGCE courses may also offer scholarships to particularly promising candidates, so it’s worth checking with the institutions you’re applying to.

Career Changer Funding

If you’re transitioning from a different career into teaching, you may be eligible for specific career changer funding. This can take the form of higher bursaries or additional financial support. Explore the possibilities by looking at the Department for Education’s ‘Get Into Teaching’ website.

Tax-Free Bursaries for Trainee Teachers

It’s important to remember that bursaries and scholarships are tax-free. This means you don’t need to declare them as income when filing your taxes.

Other Potential Sources of Income

While studying for your PGCE is demanding, some students find part-time work to supplement their income. Consider weekend or evening jobs that fit around your course schedule. You might also be eligible for benefits such as Universal Credit, depending on your circumstances. Always consult with your university’s student finance office for personalized advice and support.

Successfully navigating the PGCE finance landscape requires research and planning. By exploring all available options and carefully budgeting, you can alleviate financial stress and focus on your teacher training journey.