This document provides guidance for postgraduate applicants on various aspects of the application process. It discusses admission requirements, how to apply, what application forms look like, tips for the personal statement, and common questions asked on application forms. The key points are that research degrees typically require a 2:1 or 1st class bachelor's degree, taught master's usually require a 2:1 but some accept 2:2, and vocational courses have more flexible requirements. It advises tailoring each personal statement to the specific university and course, researching the course/university thoroughly, and expressing enthusiasm to make your application stand out.

1. Postgraduate Application
Workshop
March 2013

2. Will I get in?
• Research = 2:1 – 1
• Taught Masters = 2:1 (possibly 2:2 and other
strengths)
• Dips and Certs = More flexible but check
individual specifications

3. How do I apply?
• Vocational courses may use a clearing house –
e.g. GTTR, Ed Psych, Clinical Psych
• All other courses - apply direct to universities
using their own application forms

4. What do PG application forms look like?
• Online
• Hard Copy

5. You are typically allowed about 1 page of A4
(250-500 words) to "sell yourself"
• Often you are asked to "provide evidence in
support of your application"
• Sometimes the question will be much more
prescriptive: (Esp. vocational courses)

6. Don't use the same statement for all applications
Each statement should be different depending on
the university and course you are applying for.

7. Research the university and course/research area
• Look at websites
• Look at PG prospectuses
• Look at course handbooks
• Visit PG Fairs

8. You’ll be judged on how well you express yourself
• Draft on a word-processor and spell and
grammar check it
• Get someone reliable to proof –read it
• Stay within word limits – it’s part of the
challenge

9. Be positive and enthusiastic
• Popular courses will attract many applications
– make yours stand out

10. What will they want to know on the
application form?
• Why are you interested in the course?
• How have your studies prepared you to progress onto
the course?
Modules, skills, experience
• Where will the course take you?
Career direction
Further, more specialised study

11. Why are you interested in the course?
DON’T: I have always been interested in….
From a young age…
X is an interesting and valuable area of
study…
DO: Show how your interest in the course
has developed through your studies
and experiences

12. Why this university?

13. How have your studies prepared you to
progress onto the course?
• What special, relevant academic skills have you got to
offer?
• Computing Skills
• Scientific Skills
• Research Skills
• Modules ( + analysis)
• Show progress – particularly if you started from a
weak position

14. • Where will the course take you?
Career direction
Further, more specialised study
• Research your career options and discuss with
a careers adviser
• Talk about progression with tutors – research?