From One Student to Another: Simple UK Application Tips for International Postgrads

Are you considering a Masters degree in the UK this year? Although most Masters courses in the UK don’t have official closing dates for UK applicants, the high volume of applications from overseas means that deadlines for international students are sometimes earlier than for home students. This is especially likely for some really popular subjects such as Business and Management, Computer Science and Engineering. You’ll also need to make sure that you’ve sorted your visa out in time.

As someone with previous experience of studying abroad in the UK, I’d like to share some tips with you.

It is understandable that you will experience some confusion and hesitation before you make up your mind. I mean, studying aboard is a huge thing – “Which university should I go to?” “What course should I do?” “I have no idea about what British universities are like. Where should I start looking?”

The simplest and most obvious way to get around this is to start looking – slowly but surely. A course directory can help you build an awareness of what sorts of programmes might be available in the subject areas you’re interested in. It will also give you additional background information on the course (and the university offering it).

Research your prospective course's requirements, application deadlines, funding and tuitions fees. Compare them all. Make sure you know what you want from your course before making your decision.

Being organised like this is especially important if you want to find some funding for your course. There are some funding schemes for international students in the UK. Another way to get funded is to participate in scholarship programmes and exchange schemes from your home country. Most of these opportunities have their own funding deadlines, avoid missing them by applying as early as possible.

Normally, you will be asked to provide documents like. . .

• Transcripts or certificates. They show all the courses you have taken and your grades at undergraduate level and what final award you received. So, study hard while you can.
• A personal statement. This is where you ‘sell yourself’ to the university and make them believe that you’re the right student for their course. You should talk about all your selling points and your academic achievements in your personal statement. Of course, include your relevant work experience, but don’t lie (there’s a good chance you’ll be asked about these details at your interview). If you can, try to also be a little original and creative. Admissions offices receive hundreds of applications every day. The last thing they want to read is a copy-paste template.
• Your CV. Again, you should focus on academic achievements, and list some examples of projects that you were involved in.
• Some referees. Universities usually ask applicants to provide two references. Some universities only accept academic referees while some don’t. It depends on the university you apply for. Make sure you have their correct email addresses. And don’t just ask some big-name professors who barely spoke to you or probably couldn’t even remember you. Choose someone who actually knows you quite well. Ideally he / she will have been your dissertation supervisor or personal tutor etc.
• Evidence of competence in English. British universities will ask some international applicants to provide evidence of English language ability, usually by taking a recognised language test. However, if you completed a qualification in some English-speaking countries you won’t need to prove your English ability.
• Entry test scores. These aren’t essential, but if you want to apply to some competitive courses, or particularly selective universities, good GRE / GMAT scores may be able to improve your chances.

Remember – all documents have to be in English.

As I said above, application closing dates for international students are often earlier than home students. Some universities may also process applications on a first-come, first-served basis. If a course has already filled, there will be no place for you. Finally, don’t forget that you’ll need to have sorted your Masters application (and been accepted) before you can apply for a UK student visa (if you need one).

All of this means you should begin filing your application as soon as you made your decision – and the earlier you submit it the better. It also means that good time management is very important.

People have different strategies and techniques to manage time effectively. I’d advise you to do the following:

• Make a list of your deadlines: for your course application, for your visa application, language test dates. . . write these down and plan your time accordingly.
• Speaking of time, it isn’t just yours that’s important. Make sure your referees have enough notice to provide the information you need. The same goes for degree transcripts from your previous (or current) university.
• Don’t let language (or entry) tests add to the stress of your application (or delay it). Take them early and get those scores ready.
• Leave time for proofreading. Grammatical errors and mistakes can let down an otherwise great application (particularly if they appear in something like your personal statement). Have some time available to read through and edit your work. If you have a friend who can give you a second opinion, even better.

Good luck with your applications. Be yourself and enjoy your life in the UK.

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