Applying for postgraduate courses

The application process

All postgraduate courses are applied for directly to the university, with the exception of the teacher training courses. This means that the method and timing for courses can differ a lot across institutions. Typically, applications would involve: 
Application form: hard copy or in PDF format from the university’s web site. This will require all of the typical biographic data such as academic history and employment history, extra-curricular activities. In this way it is very like a CV. Within the form, applicants may be asked to write a ‘supporting statement’, detailing why they want to study the particular course and why they are suitable. 
Transcript of results: 
candidates must provide an official transcript from their undergraduate college. 
Interview: 
some postgraduate courses will interview potential candidates as part of the selection process.

Does the application process differ for different kinds of courses?

Courses that have a very large intake will most likely base their decision on exam results and not interviews. Smaller, more specialist courses often interview all applicants.

How much competition is there?

Basically the answer is ‘a lot’ for good courses. Many postgraduate courses are oversubscribed – they receive far more applications than the amount of places they have. These courses tend to be very well established with a history of the graduates doing well afterwards – hence the interest in them. Conversely, colleges can struggle to fill all places and this might result in the entry requirements being lowered.

How can you make your application successful?

First and foremost, do well academically throughout your undergraduate degree – nothing speaks louder than high academic results. Research your postgrad options early so that you make decisions regarding projects, subject choices etc in final year, which may help in your postgrad application. Keep a file with all your transcripts from throughout your college years – sometimes requesting a transcript from an institution can take weeks. 
Apply early so that you have made your decision and can focus on studying for your finals or getting relevant work experience. Gain any relevant work experience you can. This really strengthens your application and helps you to make a decision about your choice of specialism.

Other issues

Consider what you are going to do after the postgraduate course. Don’t let the decision to do postgraduate study be an end in itself – it is really only the beginning. 
Research the skills required in your target career after the postgraduate course, eg interpersonal skills, attention to detail, project management, working under pressure. Try to assess whether you possess or can develop the skills required – it makes both the course and your subsequent career a whole lot easier and increases your chances of success.

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