Tuition Fees and Living Costs

The cost of study is made up of two parts; tuition fees and living costs.

For information on student loans and other financial support options, please visit our Sources of Funding page.

Your tuition fees depend on whether you are classed as a Home or Overseas student. For detailed information about your fee status is determined, please visit the University Undergraduate Tuition Fees page.

Home students

Tuition fees for home students are regulated by the government. The 2027-28 tuition fee for Home students starting their first undergraduate degree will be £10,050. 

Overseas students

Overseas students will pay fees at the international rate which varies depending on the chosen course. Please refer to the University Undergraduate International fees and costs page for more information

All Overseas students, and Home students who aren't eligible for tuition fee support (such as affiliate students), have to pay an annual College fee in addition to University tuition fees. This covers the cost to your College of providing a range of educational, domestic, and pastoral services and support. In 2027-28 the College fee for Magdalene will be £13,848.

The University estimates that students should budget approximately £11,745 for 9 months, or £15,660 for 12 months, to cover accommodation and living costs in 2026-27. Personal lifestyle choices will significantly influence these estimates.

Undergraduate students are welcome to join the Junior Combination Room (JCR), which organises social events and provides a supportive community. Membership is optional, with a small termly fee, though most students take part.

At Magdalene, we guarantee accommodation for all undergraduates for the duration of their degree. Most students choose to live on-site for their entire course.

We have 11 different room bands, with weekly charges ranging from £148.12 to £251.51 for the 2025-26 academic year. These fees include internet and other utilities.

You will only pay rent for the time you are in residence, generally around 30 weeks per year. This may make living in Cambridge more affordable compared to other universities that require 9 or 12-month rental agreements.

For more details on our accommodation options and pricing, visit our Accommodation pages.

Catering options

Food is a significant part of daily living costs. At Magdalene, we offer several catering options to suit your budget and preferences:

• The Ramsay Canteen: Average meal prices include brunch (five items) for £4.30, lunch or dinner main courses for £3.20, sides for 80p, and desserts for £1.50.
• Formal Dinner: Experience a three-course dinner in our candlelit dining hall for £12. Dinners are served on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday during term.
• Self-Catering: All undergraduates have access to basic cooking facilities, allowing for communal cooking when desired.

Travel costs

Consider budgeting for travel expenses between Cambridge and your home. Within the city, most areas are within walking distance, but many students opt for a bike or bus for convenience.

Additional course costs

These will vary from course to course, but may include books, personal lab equipment (such as a lab coat or calculator), stationery, photocopying, personal computer costs, and costs associated with field trips or dissertation research.

You should consult the relevant departmental websites for an indication of any additional costs associated with your chosen course.

Don’t worry if you have concerns about affording your studies. Both the College and University offer financial support to help you manage costs effectively. For information on student loans and other financial support options, please visit our Sources of Funding page.