The University is committed to making sure that PGRs are fully supported, and know where to find all the information they need. Therefore, we wanted to update you on further financial support available. In addition to the existing expenses fund, hardship fund and living cost support fund, we have new information on extension funding for students.
Funded Extensions
The UKRI, the University of Manchester and Research England have all made additional funding available for extensions of up to three months for PGRs who have been unable to mitigate delays due to COVID-19 or adjust their research project. This now includes money to support self-funded PGRs and those with external sponsors unable to provide living cost support for any granted extension. For full details please refer to the PGR FAQs and contact your local PGR support team with any enquiries
PGR COVID-19 Expense Fund
This fund is available to all PGRs who have personally incurred unexpected research programme-related costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic (since March 2020). PGRs will be able to make one application to the expense fund per academic year. Awards will be capped at a maximum of £500 except in the case of required Hotel Quarantine costs, which will be covered in full (where approved). For full details on what you can apply for, and how to make an application, please see the guidance document. Any questions can be directed to mdc@manchester.ac.uk.
PGR COVID-19 Hardship Fund
This fund is available to PGRs facing real and demonstrable financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic (which can be defined as where your essential outgoings are greater than your income). PGRs applying to this fund could be eligible for a non-repayable award of up to £2,000. Awards are granted on a case-by-case basis after consideration of each application. For full details on eligibility and the application process please refer to the PGR COVID-19 Hardship Fund guidance document. Any question can be directed to your local PGR Support team.
Living Cost Support Fund
This fund is still available to PGRs facing financial hardship, not specifically related to COVID-19. The fund can award both small grants and loans, and is open to all students regardless of study mode or nationality. Find out more on the student support pages.
Help and further support
Awards are means-tested and evidence of all household income and outgoings may be requested but this is only to ensure that the limited funding reaches those who are truly in need of help. So, if you are struggling financially, please consider applying to the fund most relevant to you – they are here to help.
If you are struggling with any aspect of your studies due to the pandemic, please see our specific PGR FAQ’s for the latest information on how we’re trying to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on your research and where you can access help and support.