Four Steps to Applying Late in the Year

Deciding to do a postgraduate degree is a big decision. It’s one that you can (and should) spend a lot of time on. But, if you’re ready to jump in and are now cursing the fact it’s already nearing the start date then you’re in luck as applications are still open!

We’ve pulled together a list of things you need to do in order to make your postgraduate study dream a reality.

Step 1 – Do your research

If you haven’t already, contact referees for your application. Whether they’re lecturers, tutors, module leaders or a current employer, you need their permission to list them.

Step 2 – Consider the logistics

Is there an application fee?

While most universities in the UK are free to apply to, some universities or Business Schools will charge. The amount can range between £25 to £75 per course, so make sure you have this ready.

Do you need a visa?

If you’re currently outside of the UK, then you’ll need to apply for a visa. You will need to do this once you’ve been accepted onto the Masters course, but it’s worth thinking about it now so you can plan when you’ll need to do things by. Most visa applications will take three weeks to process – but you may be eligible to pay to get a faster decision. You’ll be told this at the time.

If you’re already in the UK then you might be able to apply to extend your visa or switch to a Student visa. These decisions can take time, but in some instances you can pay for priority service to get your decision within five working days.

Where could you live?

It might be that you already have accommodation and that’s great! If you’re looking for university or private accommodation then it’s worth having some back-up plans in place. As you’ll probably be applying after the deadline for university accommodation, you won’t be guaranteed a place – but they will still accept applications and offer what they can. If you have a particular preference that they’re not able to match, it might be worth taking a look at short-term rents in the first instance or hotel rooms to get your bearings if it’s a new city. That way you can easily search for accommodation and physically view it.

Step 3 – Know what funding you can get

Postgrad loans

If you’re eligible for the English, Wales or Northern Ireland loan, you can apply before you’ve had an offer from the university, as well as after you’ve started your course. As long as you apply within nine months of the start of your final year, you should be covered. Find out more in our postgraduate loans guide.

Your loan application may not be processed before you start your course, so it’s best to have a back-up plan or back-up funds to get through your first few weeks. If you’re out of options, you might be able to access a bridging loan from your university, but this will depend on their individual eligibility criteria.

Alumni discounts

If you’re applying for a Masters at the university where you did your undergraduate degree, check if you’re eligible for an alumni discount.

International students

If you’re an international student, then you will need to have access to enough financial support to cover your Masters fees and living costs in the UK during your degree. It’s worth noting that deadlines for some of the main scholarships such as GREAT, Chevening and Commonwealth could have passed so research all the options available.

Find out more in our Masters funding guide.

Step 4 – Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to do!

Once you’ve chosen the course(s) you want to apply for, make a cuppa and get that personal statement written. Check out our personal statements guide on how to structure your personal statement. Don’t forget to tailor it to the course you’re applying for.

Once your personal statement is written, edited, re-drafted, chucked in the bin and written again . . . you can research how to submit your application. More often than not, you’ll be applying through the university’s website, so research the process and what you’ll need to upload before you start.

Finally, get your documents together. Have your personal statement, references and copies of qualifications ready before you start your application. If you don’t have your academic transcript to hand, contact your university for a replacement as soon as possible. Find out more with our Applying for a Masters Degree guide.

Remember . . . don’t panic! If you’re ready to jump into postgraduate study, you’ve still got the time. Just take a breath, be realistic with what time you need to set aside, and don’t rush. Good luck!

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