Tuition Fees and Living Costs

When planning your undergraduate studies at Magdalene, it's important to be aware of the various costs involved.

This section covers everything from tuition fees to living expenses, helping you get a clear picture of what to expect financially during your time here.

Planning your undergraduate studies involves understanding three key areas:

• University tuition fees
• Accommodation costs
• Living expenses

This guide provides essential information to help you navigate your financial planning.

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

Your tuition fees depend on whether you qualify as a home or overseas student. For detailed information about your fee status, please visit the Undergraduate Study Tuition Fees page.

Home students

Tuition fees for home students are regulated by the government. For the most current details on fees for the 2025-26 academic year, please refer to the Undergraduate Study Tuition Fees page.

Overseas students

Overseas students have a different fee structures based on their chosen course, please refer to the Undergraduate Study International fees and costs page.

College fees

All overseas fee status students, and Home fee status 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.

Additionally, international students are required to pay an annual College fee, which for 2025-26 is £12,450. This fee is fixed for the first three years of undergraduate study. Fees for the fourth and subsequent years will be fixed at the rate that applies at the beginning of the fourth year of study providing that students do not intermit for more than six consecutive terms. Please see the Undergraduate Study International fees and costs page.

Room charges

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 types (bands), with weekly charges ranging from £143.92 to £243.74 for the 2025-26 academic year. These fees include heating, lighting, and internet access.

While some may find these rates higher than other universities, remember that Cambridge terms are shorter, generally allowing for around 30 weeks of accommodation 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 £4.20, lunch or dinner main courses for £3.15, sides for £0.77, and desserts for £1.50.
• Formal Dinner: Experience a three-course dinner in our candlelit dining hall for £11.65, with guest prices at £19.35. 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 bicycle for convenience. Bus fares for local routes typically range from £1.00 to £2.80.

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 particular additional costs associated with your chosen course of study.

Estimated living costs

The University estimates that students should budget approximately £11,160 for 9 months, or £14,880 for 12 months, to cover accommodation and living costs in 2025-26. Personal lifestyle choices will significantly influence these estimates.

Financial support

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.