Master of Philosophy [MPhil] (Economics)
Field of Study:
₹50.3 L/Yr
University of Cambridge MPhil Economics is a one-year, full-time advanced research-focused master's degree programme running from early September to late June. The programme is ranked 5th globally for Economics and Econometrics (QS 2026) and 6th in Business and Economics (Times Higher Education 2026), offering rigorous training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Cambridge MPhil Economics attracts approximately 42% international students from diverse countries, with an average cohort of 69-82 students, creating a highly selective and intellectually rigorous learning environment.
GBP 40,098 per year in tuition fees (approximately ₹49.92 Lakhs based on GBP 1 = ₹124.46 as of 1 April 2026), with total cost of attendance estimated at GBP 55,000-GBP 60,000 (approximately ₹68.45-74.68 Lakhs) including housing, meals, and living expenses. Cambridge MPhil Economics graduates achieve strong career outcomes with median starting salary of GBP 50,000-GBP 70,000 (approximately ₹62.23-87.12 Lakhs) in finance, consulting, and research roles, with 70% progressing to PhD programmes at leading universities globally.
Current Admission Status:
Application deadline for September 2026 entry: 18 November 2025 (PASSED - applications now closed for this intake).
For September 2027 entry: Applications open 11 September 2026, with rolling deadlines. Early deadline: 18 November 2026 (decisions by end of February 2027).
- Why Study MPhil Economics at Cambridge University
- Cambridge MPhil Economics Tuition Fees 2026-2027
- Cost of Living in Cambridge, UK
- MPhil Economics Curriculum and Structure
- Admission Requirements and Eligibility
- Application Deadlines 2026-2027
- Cambridge Economics Ranking 2026
- Placement Data and Job Outcomes
- Return on Investment
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Study MPhil Economics at Cambridge University
- 5th ranked globally for Economics and Econometrics (QS 2026) and 6th in Business and Economics (Times Higher Education 2026), with world-leading faculty and research.
- Research-focused curriculum: Intensive training in advanced microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics with emphasis on research methodology and independent study.
- 42% international cohort: Study alongside talented economists from diverse countries, creating global perspectives and international professional networks.
- PhD pathway: 70% of graduates progress to PhD programmes at Cambridge, Oxford, LSE, MIT, Harvard, and other leading universities globally.
- Strong career outcomes: Median salary GBP 50,000-GBP 70,000 (₹62.23-87.12 Lakhs) in finance, consulting, research, and policy roles; 95%+ employment rate.
Cambridge MPhil Economics Tuition Fees 2026-2027
The tuition fee for Cambridge MPhil Economics is GBP 40,098 per year for international students (2026-27 entry).
All INR conversions based on GBP 1 = ₹124.46 as of 1 April 2026. Exchange rates are subject to change.
| Fee Component | Amount (GBP) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual University Composition Fee (UCF) | GBP 40,098 | ₹49.92 Lakhs |
| College Fee (Average) | GBP 5,000-GBP 7,000 | ₹6.22-8.71 Lakhs |
| Total Annual Tuition + College | GBP 45,098-GBP 47,098 | ₹56.14-58.63 Lakhs |
| Annual Cost of Attendance | GBP 55,000-GBP 60,000 | ₹68.45-74.68 Lakhs |
Key Fee Information:
- One-year programme: MPhil Economics is completed in 9 months (September to June) with intensive coursework and research project.
- College fees vary: Each college sets independent fees ranging from GBP 5,000-GBP 7,000 (₹6.22-8.71 Lakhs). College fees are additional to University Composition Fee.
- Cost of attendance includes: University tuition, college fees, accommodation (GBP 895-GBP 1,200/month), meals, books, and personal expenses.
- Additional costs not included: Health insurance (approximately GBP 500-GBP 800/year); Visa application fees; Personal transportation.
Cost of Living in Cambridge, UK
Cambridge is a historic university city with moderate living costs compared to London. Budget GBP 1,100-GBP 1,400 monthly for living expenses.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (GBP) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (on-campus) | GBP 895-GBP 1,200 | ₹1.11-1.49 Crores |
| Accommodation (off-campus shared) | GBP 600-GBP 900 | ₹74.68-1.12 Crores |
| Food and groceries | GBP 200-GBP 300 | ₹24.89-37.34 Lakhs |
| Transport (local) | GBP 40-GBP 60 | ₹4.98-7.47 Lakhs |
| Books and materials | GBP 50-GBP 100 | ₹6.22-12.45 Lakhs |
| Social activities | GBP 100-GBP 150 | ₹12.45-18.67 Lakhs |
| Total Monthly | GBP 1,100-GBP 1,400 | ₹1.37-1.74 Crores |
Note: Most Cambridge MPhil students live on-campus in college accommodation, with costs included in the total cost of attendance estimate above.
MPhil Economics Curriculum and Structure
Core Modules (Compulsory)
Three core modules:
- E100 - Microeconomics: Advanced microeconomic theory, consumer theory, producer theory, market structures
- E200 - Principles of Macroeconomics I: Macroeconomic theory, growth models, business cycles, monetary policy
- E300 - Econometric Methods: Statistical methods, regression analysis, time series analysis, causal inference
Elective Modules (Choose 2-3)
Specialist options include:
- Banking and Finance
- Public Economics
- International Economics
- Labour Economics
- Industrial Organization
- Development Economics
- Environmental Economics
- Political Economy
Research Project
- Dissertation (40 credits): Independent research project on economics topic of choice, supervised by faculty member
- Typically 10,000-15,000 words
- Develops research skills essential for PhD progression
Admission Requirements and Eligibility
Academic Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree in Economics or related field from recognized institution.
- Minimum UK High 2:1 Honours Degree (or overseas equivalent, typically 70%+ GPA).
- Strong background in intermediate Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Econometrics.
- For Indian students: Bachelor's degree in Economics with 70%+ average; strong quantitative background essential.
Standardized Test Scores
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Required for all international applicants; minimum 90th percentile recommended (Quant 165+, Verbal 160+).
- IELTS/TOEFL: Required for non-native English speakers.
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| GRE Quantitative | 90th percentile (165+) |
| GRE Verbal | 160+ |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 (minimum 6.5 in all bands) |
| TOEFL iBT | 100 |
Application Process
- Prepare GRE scores (register and take exam by October 2026).
- Submit online application through Cambridge Postgraduate Admissions portal.
- Submit GRE scores and IELTS/TOEFL scores (if applicable).
- Provide two academic references from economics professors.
- Write personal statement (500-750 words): Research interests, career goals, why Cambridge MPhil.
- Submit CV highlighting academic achievements and research experience.
- Participate in interview (if shortlisted, typically November-December).
Application Deadlines 2026-2027
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 11 September 2026 |
| Early Deadline | 18 November 2026 |
| Decisions Released (Early) | End of February 2027 |
| Rolling Deadline | Until course fills |
| Course Start | Early September 2027 |
Note: All deadlines are UK time (11:59 PM). For Indian students, add 5.5 hours to convert to IST.
Cambridge Economics Ranking 2026
| Ranking Body | Global Rank | UK Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings (Economics & Econometrics) | 5th | 2nd | 2026 |
| Times Higher Education (Business & Economics) | 6th | 2nd | 2026 |
| Cambridge University Overall | 2nd (QS) / 3rd (THE) | - | 2026 |
Placement Data and Job Outcomes
Employment outcomes: 95%+ employment rate; 70% progress to PhD programmes.
| Career Path | Percentage of Graduates | Median Salary (GBP) | Median Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD Programmes (Cambridge, Oxford, LSE, MIT, Harvard) | 70% | N/A | N/A |
| Finance & Banking | 15% | GBP 60,000-GBP 80,000 | ₹74.68-99.57 Lakhs |
| Consulting | 8% | GBP 55,000-GBP 75,000 | ₹68.45-93.35 Lakhs |
| Government & Policy | 5% | GBP 45,000-GBP 60,000 | ₹56.01-74.68 Lakhs |
| Other sectors | 2% | GBP 40,000-GBP 55,000 | ₹49.78-68.45 Lakhs |
Top employers: McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Bank of England, HM Treasury, World Bank, IMF, OECD.
Return on Investment
Total 1-year cost: GBP 55,000-GBP 60,000 (approximately ₹68.45-74.68 Lakhs).
Salary progression (for those entering employment):
- Year 1 (post-graduation): GBP 50,000-GBP 70,000 (₹62.23-87.12 Lakhs)
- Year 3-5: GBP 80,000-GBP 120,000 (₹99.57-1.49 Crores)
- Break-even period: 1-2 years
Long-term benefits (especially for PhD pathway):
- Access to Cambridge's extensive alumni network globally (200,000+ alumni)
- Strong foundation for academic career in economics
- PhD progression: 70% of graduates pursue doctoral studies at top universities
- Career flexibility across academia, finance, consulting, government, and international organizations
- Visa pathway: Student visa during studies; Skilled Worker visa sponsorship post-graduation for qualifying roles
Cambridge MPhil Economics offers exceptional value for international students seeking world-class advanced economics education. As the 5th ranked economics programme globally (QS 2026) and 2nd in the UK, it provides access to leading faculty, cutting-edge research, and unparalleled networking opportunities. The one-year intensive programme, combined with 42% international cohort and strong career outcomes (95%+ employment, 70% PhD progression, median salary GBP 50,000-GBP 70,000 or ₹62.23-87.12 Lakhs), creates compelling ROI. The total investment of GBP 55,000-GBP 60,000 (₹68.45-74.68 Lakhs) is justified by career acceleration, global recognition, and professional networking. For Indian students committed to economics research, PhD studies, or careers in finance, consulting, and policy, Cambridge MPhil Economics represents one of the most prestigious and career-defining investments available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the difference between MPhil Economics and MPhil Economic Research at Cambridge?
Ans: MPhil Economics focuses on advanced training in core areas (microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics) with flexibility in electives. MPhil Economic Research emphasizes research methodology and independent research project, with more flexibility in course selection. Both are one-year programmes and equally respected. Choice depends on career goals: MPhil Economics for finance/consulting; MPhil Economic Research for PhD preparation.
Ques: What are the chances of progressing to Cambridge PhD after MPhil Economics?
Ans: Approximately 70% of MPhil Economics graduates progress to PhD programmes. To progress to Cambridge PhD, you need minimum 70% average across all exams and dissertation. However, many graduates also secure PhD places at Oxford, LSE, MIT, Harvard, and other leading universities. Strong performance in dissertation and research proposal are critical for PhD progression.
Ques: Is GRE mandatory for Indian applicants? What if I don't have a strong quantitative background?
Ans: Yes, GRE is mandatory for all international applicants. Cambridge expects 90th percentile performance (Quant 165+). If your quantitative background is weak, intensive GRE preparation (3-4 months) is essential. However, you must have strong intermediate microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics background from your undergraduate degree. If lacking, consider strengthening through online courses before applying.
Important Alert
- Course Start Date for October(Michaelmas) 2026 Intake - Oct 1, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹5032700 (GBP 40098) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Food | ₹444305 (GBP 3540) |
| Accommodation | ₹1347977 (GBP 10740) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ₹5032700 (GBP 40098) |
| 2024 | ₹4681021 (GBP 37296) |
| 2023 | ₹4457739 (GBP 35517) |
| 2021 | ₹5579547 (GBP 44455) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Course Start Date for October(Michaelmas) 2026 Intake | Oct 1, 2026 |

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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Society Bombay Scholarship Fund | Up to ₹250,000 | Candidates from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa admitted to a University of Cambridge College for undergraduate, postgraduate, or short courses. |
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
1 Year Masters Programs in UK for International Students
Masters in UK: Top Universities, Admission Requirements, Tuition Fees, and Scholarships
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge C.T Taylor Fund | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Cambridge Trust Scholarship- UG and PG 2023 | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Oxford and Cambridge Society of India (OCSI) Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| India Postgraduate Taught Master’s Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 4.5 L/Yr$3,555 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 2.5 L/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application Deadline for Michaelmas 2026 Intake (14th May 2026) Application Deadline for Lent 2027 Intake (1st Oct 2026) Application Deadline for Easter 2027 Intake (14th Jan 2027) | INR 50.3 L/Yr GBP 40,098 /Yr |
| ||
| INR 37.2 L/Yr GBP 29,600 /Yr |
| |||
Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (26th Jun 2026) | INR 49.2 L/Yr GBP 39,200 /Yr |
|
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Comments
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Interested in the course? Kindly guide me for the same. Thank you.
The University of Cambridge offers a wide range of courses at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. However, You can explore the University of Cambridge courses to learn more about the curriculum, fees, and other details.