A Guide to Applying for A Master’s Degree in the UK

So you’ve decided to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK. That’s great; a Master’s degree, especially in the UK, can open many social and financial opportunities for the future. 

However, as you probably know, thinking about doing something is very different from actually doing it. And make no mistake, applying for a Master’s degree is not a walk in the park — especially if you don’t have the right guidance. 

But wait, don’t go yet! We’re here to help you. In this guide to applying for a Master’s degree in the UK, we’ll show you how to apply to your chosen course and receive that acceptance letter!

Let’s discuss each step. 

Step 1: Check that places are open and applications are being accepted

If you already have a course in mind, great! However, you need to check the school to see whether spaces are still available on the course and that applications are still open. 

As an international student, keep in mind that deadlines for applications are usually earlier than for European Economic Area students. 

Therefore, we advise you to be thorough as you check the availability of a course. 

Step 2: Begin your application as soon as possible

Applying for a Master’s degree takes time and effort, and it’s very easy to procrastinate. Please don’t fall into this trap; it’s been the bane of many prospective students. It just takes a little sleep and folding of the arms, and the application deadline has passed!

We know it’s tempting to procrastinate, especially if the requirements for your course don’t seem that high. 

However, don’t be deceived; even the “simplest” of applications contain plenty of paperwork to do. 

Therefore, the sooner you start working on your application, the better. 

There are several advantages to starting your application early. Here are two very important advantages:

• Starting early gives you enough time to craft an application that impresses your school
• By starting early, you’ll increase your chances of sending your application before space runs out for your course

Some courses are in-demand, and there’s a lot of competition, which is why they sometimes have a waitlist. So if you don’t apply on time, you might end up waiting longer than usual or not even getting in at all — even if you have all the documents you need!

Step 3: Gather and submit the required supporting documents

At the Master’s level, you need to submit more than just your WAEC or Bachelor’s degree certificate. 

Depending on your course and school of choice, here are documents you’ll also need to submit:

1. CV

Your CV should summarise your academic, professional, and personal achievements. 

2. A Personal statement

This statement or essay forms an integral part of your application. It should highlight your skills, knowledge, experience, and any other information that shows admissions know why you’ll be a good fit for the program. 

3. Research proposal

A research proposal isn’t always needed and is often only required if you’re applying for a research-heavy program. Your school will provide more information about what it should contain.

4. International passport

Of course, you’ll need this to prove your identity.

5. Birth Certificate

As with the international passport, this proves your identifying information. 

6. Proof of English proficiency

As you’re applying from Nigeria, UK schools don’t usually require you to write TOEFL or IELTS exams. All you might require is a letter from your university confirming that you were taught in English.

7. Academic Transcripts

The university will require proof of your academic qualifications. Your degree certificate and academic transcripts are what you need to submit in this case. 

8. Academic and professional reference letter

You’ll need to give your university the contact details of at least two ‘referees’ that can give you a written reference and vouch for your academic skills and motivation. 

If you’re applying just fresh out of the university in Nigeria or elsewhere, you won’t need a professional reference; reference letters from two university tutors will suffice. 

On the other hand, if you’ve left school for some time, it’s only normal to pick a professional referee and another from your previous university. 

Nevertheless, look to the university you’re applying to for specific guidelines. 

NOTE: You might not have to submit ALL the documents listed above. Your school will tell you what they require. 

Experienced hands like Reinng can help you put all the documents you need together at ZERO cost. 

Step 4: Keep an eye on your inbox

After you’ve submitted your application, keep a close eye on your inbox for positive news from the school’s admissions department. 

Get in touch with us today

Do you still have questions about how to apply for a Master’s program in the UK? Then get in touch with us today. We have several years of experience and a high success rate in helping Nigerians gain admission to UK universities. Moreover, we’ll help you sort through the whole admissions process for FREE. 

Send us a message or give us a call, and let’s help you achieve your goal of studying in the UK!