Leaving a gift in your Will

Leaving a legacy to Magdalene is a meaningful way to support the College for future generations. Many Members who cannot give during their lifetime choose to remember the College in their Will, helping to sustain teaching, research, and student life.

Why make a Will?

A legally valid Will ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes. Without one, the state determines how your assets are allocated, which may not reflect your intentions. UK law encourages charitable giving by reducing inheritance tax on estates that include a charitable donation.

The Buckingham Society

Members who leave a legacy are invited to join the Buckingham Society, named in honour of the patronage of Henry Stafford, 2nd Duke of Buckingham. Society Members are listed in the Impact Report and invited to a biennial luncheon hosted by the Master.

Inheritance Tax Benefits

Magdalene College is a registered charity in the UK, meaning gifts left in a Will are exempt from inheritance tax, currently levied at 40% on estates over £325,000. Leaving 10% or more of your estate to charity reduces the inheritance tax rate to 36%.

How to include Magdalene in your will

To include a gift, please use the following wording:

"I give to the Master and Fellows of THE COLLEGE OF ST MARY MAGDALENE in the University of Cambridge (Registered Charity Number 1137542) the residue / a portion of my estate / the sum of £ (amount) free of tax for the Master and Fellows to apply in such a manner as they in their absolute discretion think fit for the benefit of the College and I declare that the receipt of the Director of Development or of the authorised officer for the time being of the College shall be a good and sufficient discharge to my Executors."

Contact Us

Members are welcome to contact the Alumni and Development Office to discuss leaving a legacy to the College.