Applying for a Masters degree

When should I apply for a Masters?

'Most universities open their application cycles around 12 months before the course begins,' explains Christine Todd, Head of UK Recruitment at the University of Liverpool. 'Many institutions now offer multiple start dates throughout the year; typically in September and January, with some also offering April entry.'

While some set specific deadlines, many accept applications throughout the year. Course providers accept candidates on a first come, first served basis, and may close their application window once they've filled their places, so the earlier you apply the better.

'It's not necessary to wait until you have your undergraduate degree results to apply,' says Claire Pryke, associate director outreach, recruitment and admissions at the University of Bradford. So aim to apply at least six months before your course begins. Even if you're still in your final year of undergraduate study, your university should be able to provide a predicted grade for you to submit.

Applying early is also a good idea if your course requires a portfolio, essay or interview, or if you're applying for a scholarship.

Applicants should apply no later than a few months ahead of the programme start date, (June or July for courses starting in September). Try not to leave it this late though.

Funding deadlines for courses beginning in September typically fall between January and March, and you'll be more likely to receive your preferred accommodation the earlier you apply.

International students need an unconditional offer to begin applying for scholarships or a visa.

How do I apply for a Masters degree?

In the majority of cases you'll submit your Masters applications directly to universities. However, UCAS Postgraduate provides application management for a small number of UK universities and colleges.

Many institutions have their own online application system. You don't have to complete your application in one go; you can create an account and save your progress. Alternatively, download an application pack or request one by phone, and apply via post.

Each university sets its own timeframes for processing applications. It'll usually take between two weeks and two months to discover whether you've got a place.

Note that applying for teacher training has a unique process, with its own deadlines and entry requirements.

Get the ball rolling by searching for postgraduate courses.

How many Masters courses can I apply for?

'There is no limit on the number of applications you can submit,' says Christine, 'but it's wise to narrow down your options and apply strategically.'

Limit your applications to two or three courses - any more than five is unnecessary, and will potentially risk the overall quality of your applications.

Each application, personal statement and reference should be tailored to each course to make the application as strong as possible.

What should I include in a Masters application?

Requirements differ depending on the programme you're applying for so check with your institution. For most courses you need to submit:

• academic documents - such as transcripts and certificates of previous degree-level studies. If you're still studying, you'll typically need to provide an interim transcript that shows your module titles and grades achieved to date.
• a personal statement - this should explain your motivations for studying the programme, any relevant skills and experience you have (either through previous studies or employment), as well as your career aspirations.

Your Masters application may also require:

• your CV
• a portfolio
• a research proposal.

If you're an international student, you'll also need to provide:

• a copy of your passport
• proof of your language proficiency, if you're not a native speaker. You can do this by presenting an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) certificate or a GCSE in English.

To ensure you get a swift response to your application, it's essential to include all the required information. If admissions tutors have to keep asking for missing documents the process will be unnecessarily drawn out so aim to be as organised as possible.

'To make your application stand out start early, research thoroughly, and present a clear picture that demonstrates your motivation for studying a Masters course, if you do this you can be confident that you’re on the right track,' adds Christine.

How do I put a portfolio together?

Arts and humanities candidates may be asked to provide evidence of their work, in the form of a portfolio to support their application. This collection of work demonstrates your commitment to and enthusiasm for your chosen subject, while also conveying your personality and creativity.

Include a range of your best and most recent work, with accompanying sketchbooks or notebooks to document the creative process.

There's no limit to how many pieces your portfolio should include, but think about the logistics of transporting a physical portfolio to interview. Although some universities may ask you to submit your portfolio digitally - this could be in the form of a slideshow - it's best not to inundate your interviewers with work. Stick to a few high-quality pieces that give a robust overview of your style.

Your university will notify you of any specific requirements of what to include. If you're unsure, get in touch - your willingness to arrive prepared will be appreciated.

Learn more about putting together a creative portfolio.

Who should I ask for a postgraduate reference?

References build a picture of each candidate, enabling admissions tutors to create a shortlist. For a Masters 'you will need to provide two references, at least one of these should be academic,' advises Claire. 'You can submit an employer reference if you have any work experience.'

Don't approach a high-ranking professor to impress - there's little point in a referee who barely knows you. Opt for lecturers, supervisors or tutors who you've had contact with throughout your degree, as they'll be able to comment on your academic performance and suitability for the course you're applying for.

Don't worry about approaching referees, as this is an expected part of an academic's job. However, try to enquire as early as possible, as this gives you more time to find another referee should your first choice be unavailable.

References must be sent directly to the university - signed, dated and sealed in an envelope, or sent from an official university or company email address. The university may seek to verify your references if there's any doubt as to their authenticity, while some universities have set forms for referees to complete.

Finally, don't hold back your application if you're waiting for references. It's important to get your application in on time, and you can often change or add referees at a later date.

Email example for requesting references

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this email template to help generate ideas when structuring your own reference request but avoid copying and pasting. Your email needs to be original and tailored to your individual circumstances.

What happens after I've applied for a Masters?

Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by an admissions officer or admissions tutor. They will check the documents you have provided and make a decision on your eligibility and whether you meet the requirements for the programme.

'When we receive your application, our admissions team will assess your application and whether you meet all the entry requirements, if so an unconditional offer will be made,' explains Claire. 'If you haven't got your results, but you can meet the entry criteria, we'll make a conditional offer, and clearly advise what you need to achieve in order to be made an unconditional offer.'

You'll be informed of your university's decision within eight weeks. You'll receive a decision by email and will be issued with an offer letter in your application portal. This timeframe can vary depending on institution, subject and the volume of applicants.

You'll receive one of the following responses:

• Unconditional - you've met all of the entry requirements and your place on the course is confirmed.
• Conditional - you've received an offer to join the course, providing that you meet certain requirements.
• Interview - you've been invited to interview, after which the university will make a decision on whether to offer you a place. Your university will specify a date and time for this to take place.
• Unsuccessful - you've failed to gain a place on the course.

You can track your application via the university's application portal but as many postgraduate courses are oversubscribed, it's inevitable that some candidates will miss out.

If you're unsuccessful, remain positive. Request feedback from admissions staff, and ask for advice on how to improve future applications. If you think the decision is unjustified most institutions have an appeals procedure.

If you're aiming to reapply for the next intake, use the interim months to research courses and departments, make contact with programme leaders and professors, and gain relevant work experience.

Will I need to attend a postgraduate interview?

Not all Masters programmes require you to attend an interview, it depends entirely on the course and university.

You may be invited to interview for popular courses or those in:

• business
• creative or performing arts
• education
• medicine.

Master of Business Administration (MBA) programmes almost always require an interview.

'Our course pages show if an interview is required in the entry requirements section,' says Claire. 'You may also be invited to attend an interview if you are applying with non-standard qualifications or if you don't quite meet the entry criteria, but you have extensive relevant work experience.'

Interviews can be held in person or online and can be formal or informal (more like a chat).

How do I prepare for a Masters interview?

Similar to your personal statement, an interview is your chance to engage with the admissions tutors and demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for your chosen subject.

Postgraduate admissions tutors want to know what drives you, why you want to study at their institution, and why the course is right for you.

To begin your preparation and to discover what else you might be asked, see postgraduate interview questions.

Find out more

• Learn more about Masters degrees.