Studying in the UK : Applying to UK universities

Postgraduate applications are almost always made directly to the university you want to study at. This will normally involve an application form and in some cases may involve an aptitude test. Read our tips on how to get in...  

Many universities hold recruitment events around the world, where you can pick up prospectuses and speak to officers about applying for postgrad study.

Most UK universities have an international office that deals with applications from students from outside the UK. Here are some top tips from international advisers.

How do I make my application perfect?

Admissions tutors look for applications which demonstrate a true understanding and interest in the subject - those potential students who see their chosen subject as a launch pad for future career aspirations. The applicant needs to demonstrate that they have done the research and that they have a genuine interest in this subject.

Obviously, they need to have a good academic background as well. At Birmingham the majority of our postgraduate courses require students to have an upper second class degree or equivalent. Rachel Seyler, University of Birmingham

How can I make my application stand out? 

An impressive academic transcript and an example of your best written work will make any academic selector think seriously about making you an offer. Good references can also help, but academic achievements, evidence of a strong work ethic and motivation to succeed are what we are primarily looking for. Thomas Marr, University of St Andrews

Should I use an agent to help with my application?

No preferential treatment is given to applications received through agents but using one can be a useful source of information on entry requirements and course content. Applicants should ask representatives how many students they have successfully sent to the UK and specifically to the institution in which they wish to apply. Alex Ingold, Goldsmiths, University of London

Things to remember

Start thinking early about what is most important to you. With so many factors to consider when choosing a course, preparation and research is key. Ultimately, we all study at university to enable us to have a better future in an area that interests us, so look at what graduates of your chosen course are doing now. Is there opportunity for work experience, exposure to employers or opportunities for further research?

Rankings aren’t everything, so ensure the course content is right, that it is affordable, that you can meet the entry criteria and that the choice is yours: never feel pressured by anyone else to study something that you don’t want to. Andrew Plant, Aston University