If you're 60 or over and pursuing an MA in the arts, there are funding options available - though the standard Postgraduate Master's Loan isn't one of them in England.
Government Funding by Region
England
The standard Postgraduate Master's Loan (around £12,000 – £13,000) is not available if you're aged 60 or over on the first day of your course.
Wales
Our course is not currently eligible for Student Finance Wales funding, including the Postgraduate Master's Loan and the 60+ bursary.
Scotland
There's no upper age limit for the SAAS postgraduate tuition fee loan (up to ~£7,000). However, the living-cost loan isn't offered to those 61 or over.
Northern Ireland
The postgraduate tuition fee loan (up to ~£6,500) has no age limit. Maintenance loans aren't available to older postgraduates.
Other ways to fund an MA
Arts Council Grants
Arts Council England – Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP)
Grants of £2,000 – £12,000 for individual creative practitioners to develop their practice. Open to all ages. Multiple funding rounds per year.
Creative Scotland – Open Fund
Grants from £500 to £50,000 for Scotland-based artists. Rolling programme with no age restrictions.
Arts Council Northern Ireland – SIAP
Grants of £500 – £15,000 for artists in NI to develop their practice. Usually one annual call.
Charitable Trusts
Sir Richard Stapley Educational Trust
Annual grants of £650 – £1,500 for UK postgraduates with a 2:1 or above and financial need. No upper age limit.
Turn2Us and Family Action
Online grant search tools to find niche funding based on your profile, location, and background.
Practical Tips
Many over-60 students combine several funding sources
Ask us about our flexible payment plans
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is available at any age for study-related support
Consider crowdfunding or local civic organisations for additional support
The decision to invest in your education and your creative practice is a powerful one and support is out there.