Applying to a Masters Degree, in the UK or internationally can be a long process. And there is a lot to think about before you start applying. Not only is it a long process, hard, and with rejections. It can be very overwhelming. So here are some Masters application tips to hopefully help you out.
If you are in the position of applying to a Masters then chances are you are finished with university and deadlines. Therefore now is the best time to get started.
Start early
Even though we have been submerged by deadlines, it is important to make a little bit of time to start thinking about what’s next. I know! Scary! Chances are you’ve been at university for three years, in the same city with the same friends. Change is scary. But we need to think about it.
One of the first questions to ask yourself is: Is doing a Masters the right choice for me? There is no point learning all the Masters application tips and tricks if it simply isn’t for you.
A Masters is a one- or two-year commitment and, if you are doing it in the UK, it can be quite expensive. Are you ready to commit the time or the money? This is definitely something to consider.
Where do you want to do it? Are you planning to stay in your university? In the UK? In London? Abroad?
What do you want to study? Probably the most important question to have answered.
All in all there is quite a lot to think about before you even start researching different programs.
Read More: Pros And Cons Of Writing A Dissertation
Do your research
Once you have decided that you want to do a Masters, and have a rough idea of where you want to do it, you need to do some serious research. In order to do that effectively, make a Google Sheets or Excel document.
Some of the things you need to look for are: What are the main forms of assessment? Where is it located? What is the tuition fee like? When do you need to apply by? Do you need an essay and reference letters?
These are just some ideas, then you can tailor it to your wants it and needs. Like scholarships, if you are into sports what kind does the school offer?
Having just finished all my Masters applications I found that these tips, although tedious, worked best. Then everything is organised and in one place.
Writing your essay
Chances are you will need to send in an essay outlining why you want admission into this Masters program, why you would be a good fit, and perhaps what research you want to undertake.
Before you start writing your essay, the university you are applying to should have a checklist of what should be included in your essay. Start a blank google doc (and label it before you forget and accidentally delete it) or a Word document and paste it there.
Then start planning your different sections. Remember to highlight why you are a good candidate. Something that really helped me writing these different essays is that universities don’t need to know your flaws. Keep them to yourself; you are trying to stand out from the competition, after all!
Something to remember is that the first draft you write is unlikely to be the one you send off. If it is, then you have my congratulations. So yes, be ready to write more than one draft.
Once you have written your first attempt, have someone completely independent read through and give you comments. Ask them to be critical. Harsh but it will be useful.
And after that first draft has been read, redo your personal statement as many times as you need to get it perfect.
I warned you: it’s a long process. And it doesn’t get easier.
Get your CV ready
If you are applying to a Masters program, chances are you will need to send in your CV on top of the personal statement. Writing a CV is a complicated process. I had no idea until I started applying for jobs and kept getting rejections.
Most universities in the UK will have a careers service. Make use of them. Even at the start of the process. They can advise you on where to look for Master’s programs and how to get started.
Send in your CV and ask them to look over it. And then you will have a brand new CV, that looks good, is updated and is professional. That is key to a good MA Application.
Get your references
Most programs will require references from professors or past employers. Get started early with who will be your reference. Email them, go see them in person but do not take them by surprise. Send along your CV and some details as to where you are applying and for what so they know what to write.
Don’t take them by surprise because that’s rude. And they’ll likely not be able to spend anything back. And once they have sent the reference I would make sure the thank them. I know it seems crazy but in all the craziness you might forget.
Ask them early. Professors and professionals are busy. They don’t wait around to write their students to ask them for references. So make sure you ask them early on so they have plenty of time to write you a strong reference that will help you out.
And finally make sure you ask someone who you know. A personal tutor, a professor who you have talked, or been to office hours. They aren’t going to write for someone who doesn’t show their face in lectures and seminars.
Be prepared to wait
Finally, good luck. You’ve sent off your application and now you can start on the next one. Kidding. But don’t wait too long. Now you know the Masters application tips and tricks, you have everything you need.
Be prepared to wait because applying to a Masters can be long processes. Do keep an eye on the online platform you submitted to and on your email. You never know.