Applying for a Postgraduate Course

Applying for a postgraduate course is different that the system created for undergraduates, as there is no central admission system. Students are therefore expected to approach the university or department directly.

As a postgraduate student you will be expected to download the application form direct from the university. It is a good idea to check exactly when the course begins and when the application deadline is. The application form should cover your academic achievements to date plus any career achievements, if applicable. You may also be asked to provide course transcripts providing details from your university of the subjects and courses you have taken and the grades you received. You will also need to provide information on how you will fund your course during your studies.

Supporting Statements
If you are applying for a taught Masters, such as an MA or MSc, you will be expected to supply a supporting statement clearly stating why you wish to study the course at this level. Remember, this statement tells admission tutors why they should consider you over plenty of other students with great degrees. So, think about this section very clearly before completing.

If you are applying for a research-based master's, such as a Master of Research (MRes) or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), you will be asked to write a research proposal. This should focus on outlining your areas of study, how you intend to research and the sources of information you wish to use.

References

Your references are extremely important so choose your referees with care, ask them in advance and confirm the deadline with them. You will require two references when applying for a postgraduate programme from tutors who supervised you during your undergraduate studies. If you are now working then you are given the option of supplying professional referees, keeping them as relevant as possible to your course.