Frequently asked questions

Applying to Hertford

Can I choose Hertford as my college?
Yes – you can select Hertford as your preferred college when applying.

Do you accept my course?
For a full list of available courses, please see the University’s graduate admissions pages.

Do I apply separately to the college?
No – there is no separate application to Hertford.

Will I be interviewed by the college?
Most graduate applicants are not interviewed by colleges, though this may vary by course.

Can I change college after applying?
In most cases, college allocation is handled centrally and cannot be changed.

Do I need to apply separately for Hertford funding?
No – in most cases, you are automatically considered when you apply to your course.

When will I hear about funding?
Funding decisions are usually made between March and July, depending on the scheme.

Can I combine different funding sources?
In some cases, yes, depending on the terms of each award.

Is accommodation guaranteed?
Accommodation is not guaranteed, but we aim to house as many first-year graduates as possible.

Living at Hertford

What financial support is available besides scholarships?

• Conference grants and research support. Hertford graduate students can apply for college support to cover expenses related to participation in academic conferences. Our conference grants cover registration fees, accommodation, travel, and visa fees. Student can also apply for support to cover expenses related to graduate research, including fieldwork costs, software, and surveys. Support is capped over the course of the degree.
• Hardship funding. Students who run into unexpected financial difficulty can apply to the Student Support Fund, open to UK, EU and overseas students and awarded on a regular 3rd and 7th week schedule. The Bursar is also available to speak to any student in financial difficulty at any point in the year. Forms for both are on the college intranet. Other sources of college funding are listed there too.

Can I work part-time in college?
Yes, though demand for part-time work among students is larger than the number of part-time positions available, and international graduate students may be restricted by visa conditions. The University, and funders, may have further limits on paid work for full-time graduate students in term time. The college occasionally offers Residential Adviser positions for vacations, and sometimes administrative and outreach roles. Availability varies through the year, and vacancies are circulated by email.

Does the college offer welfare and pastoral support?
Yes. The Student Welfare Lead Jane Corrigan is the main point of contact for graduate students, supported by the Chaplain and trained student peer supporters. Support is available for anything from short-term difficulty to ongoing conditions, and you can approach any of them directly.

What support is available if I experience sexual harassment?
The Student Welfare Lead is the first point of contact in college and can talk through the options available, including support that doesn’t involve making a formal report. The University’s Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service offers independent, specialist advice and can be approached directly at any stage.

Is there a bike repair service in college?
An independent bike mechanic visits college once or twice a term for repairs and servicing. He operates separately from the college, so charges are settled directly with him. Dates are announced by email in advance.