Childcare Support Fund

Childcare Support Fund (University of Cambridge)

You get money towards your childcare costs, up to about 6,200 EUR (£5,400) per academic year, from the University of Cambridge's Childcare Services. The funding covers childcare used between 1 October 2025 and 30 September 2026. The amount is worked out individually by comparing your family income and spending against your actual childcare bills. The money can only pay for Ofsted-registered childcare, which is childcare inspected and listed by the UK's official childcare regulator. This includes nurseries, childminders, pre-schools, breakfast clubs, after-school clubs and holiday clubs. It cannot be used for the general costs of raising a child.

Who can apply

• University: You are a current student at the University of Cambridge. Undergraduates and graduates can apply.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply, including EU and overseas students.
• Parents: You have a child in childcare and you pay for it.
• Type of childcare: Your childcare is Ofsted-registered. You can show proof of the place, the booking pattern and the cost.
• Financial need: Your childcare costs are more than your household can afford. You give full details of your income and spending, such as grants, earnings, benefits, loans, savings and fees.
• Study break: You can still apply if you have paused your studies for a while (known as intermitting).

How to apply

You fill in the application form and attach proof of your childcare place, payslips and invoices. Your College Tutor signs it in support. You then send the completed form to Childcare Services. There is no fixed deadline. Applications are taken all year on a first-come, first-served basis until the money runs out, so apply as early as you can.

How realistic are your chances?

This fund is open only to Cambridge student parents with an Ofsted-registered childcare place and a real gap between their income and their childcare bills, so the eligible group is naturally small. If you clearly fit and can document your costs, your prospects are good. The pot is limited and awards go first-come, first-served, so apply as early in the year as you can.