A new approach to supporting ordinands through training was introduced for the 2026–27 academic year. It’s part of a renewed commitment from the Church of England to reducing barriers for those following God’s call to ordained ministry and supporting the well-being of clergy throughout their ministry.
A summary of the new system is available below, and the full details are available in this policy document.
This short guide provides general information about the various components of financial support available to you during training.
Looking for quick answers? See our Ordinand Maintenance Funding Changes (2026/27) Frequently Asked Questions.
What’s changing?
The Ministry Training Fund (MTF) provides a new national grant system designed to provide greater clarity, consistency, and appropriate financial support during training.
In 2026-27, ordinands will apply for funding through their diocese. From 2027-28, an online portal will simplify applications and access to funding. How we collect and process your personal data is covered in our privacy notice.
Support will vary depending on training pathway:
- Full-time training is supported through the Ministry Training Fund
- Part-time, non-residential training receives a fixed grant and travel support
Full-time training support
Full-time ordinands receive support through the Ministry Training Fund, which includes:
- A Standard grant (not means-tested) for eligible full-time ordinands under 50
- An optional means-tested Enhanced Grant for eligible ordinands with dependents
- A Discretionary Fund for emergencies or exceptional costs
Full-time ordinands aged over 50 at the start of training
Ordinands in full-time training who are not eligible for a Standard or Enhanced Grant because they are aged over 50 at the start of training will be entitled to a grant of £1,000.
Further details are available below.
Part-time, non-residential training support
Ordinands in part-time, non-residential training receive a fixed grant of £1,000 per year for books, IT, and other costs. They may also claim travel expenses.
Other information
I am an existing ordinand. Am I going to be worse off?
No. If you would receive less under the new system than you received under the previous arrangements (or less than 10/12 of your previous funding if you are going into your final year), your funding will be maintained at the current level. The £3,000 interim enhancement is included as part of your 2026–27 funding. The same will apply to any further years of training.
What about travel costs?
Non‑residential ordinands (full‑time and part‑time) may claim necessary travel expenses.
Scenarios
Example grants (illustrative only):
Example 1
Ordinand (not final year), two children, Zone 2, net income £16,000:
Enhanced grant: £20,575
Standard grant: £20,176
Total: £40,751
Example 2
Ordinand (not final year), one child, Zone 1, net household income £3,000:
Enhanced grant: £23,645
Standard grant: £26,127
Total: £49,772
Example 3
Final-year ordinand, three children, Zone 3, net household income £28,588:
Enhanced grant (adjusted): £11,025
Standard grant (final year): £14,284
Total: £25,309
For full details, consult the policy document.
Who to contact
Diocesan Directors of Ordinands and Theological Training Institutions hold all the details of the new system and will support ordinands through the application process.
General enquiries can also be directed to the Ministry Development Team.
