10 tips for applying for a master's degree

Applying for a master's degree is similar to the process of responding to the vast majority of vacancies. As a rule, first of all you will need to fill out a form with a set of standard questions. The next step is to write a letter of motivation, in which you describe in detail why you should be enrolled in the chosen program. Therefore, writing an application should be taken as seriously as applying for a job in which you are really interested. Getting started is never easy, so check out these guidelines to help you write your motivation letter.

1. Be clear

If even one sentence in your letter begins with the words "I think" or "I feel", they should be removed immediately.Your arguments need to be clearer than “heartfelt” when you write about how a particular program will help you in your career development. You will have at least one year of advanced studies. And if you are applying for a master's degree with the aim of moving up the career ladder, you should have a good understanding of how this program can be useful for you.

But that's not all: if you know this course will bring you closer to achieving your goals, can you articulate them clearly? And why are you sure that you need this particular program, and not any other at some other university? Make sure you express your thoughts clearly about the program you choose and the challenges you face.

2. Check the admission requirements

Your application must fully meet the university requirements.Each university and each program has its own selection criteria. For this reason, you need to be extremely careful when reviewing the list of eligibility requirements. Usually this information can be found on the official website of the course, but some universities publish separate packages of documents for admission. They should be examined in detail before submitting an application.

If the program does not have specific requirements, you will need to focus on the information below. In general, the length of a cover letter is about 1000 words, the maximum length is 1500 words.

3. Take care of funding issues

If you do not have funds to pay for tuition and living, the issue of funding is especially acute. On our website you can find information about the sources of funding for Master's and PhD studies in the UK. You can also subscribe to a selection of alternative funding sources for studies in graduate and graduate . It highlights many of the organizations that may be able to support you. In addition, our VKontakte blog and section of the site on the selection of scholarships is regularly updated with information on scholarships and grants, relevant both for the UK and for international programs.

4. Tell us about your motivation

Why did you decide to go to graduate school? To deepen your knowledge in your chosen specialty? Because that's what everyone does? If you do not properly indicate your motivation, your application may indirectly indicate that you have decided to continue your education because you do not want to start work yet.

You do not need a specific reason for further education.If you have one, then great: state in detail what this program will bring to your life. However, if there is no such reason, do not worry. There is nothing wrong with education for education's sake.If you are interested in continuing your studies because you are deeply passionate about a specific area of ​​expertise, please let the panel know. Tell us what attracted you so strongly, and explain how your ideas can help in the study of the chosen subject. Check out our page Why do you need a master's degree? and check out other ideas for writing your cover letter.

5. Check spelling and grammar

It's hard to imagine a more awkward situation than when you sent an application to the university and realized that the first line containstypo. Carefully check the completed form and the letter of motivation for errors and typos.It is extremely helpful to read what is written aloud so that you can feel the rhythm of the letter and notice poorly worded phrases.

6. Prove that your experience is relevant

Your previous experience should be directly related to the program you are currently applying forotherwise why should the admissions committee consider your application? You may have enjoyed your undergraduate studies a lot, but how can that improve your chances of applying now? What educational modules were you most interested in during your bachelor's degree? Or which ones did you graduate with honors? Why is your experience relevant to your chosen master's program?

If you have volunteer or work experience that is relevant to your course, be sure to include this information. Details like these demonstrate both your initiative and interest in the subject. For example, if you are looking to enroll in a master's degree in economics and have completed an internship in analytics, do not hesitate that the skills you have acquired can be useful, which means they must be mentioned when applying.

7. Do not belittle your achievements

If you have achieved good results on any project, be sure to state it in your application. The fact that you have excellent work experience, or you have successfully defended your dissertation, is not read between the lines.

A motivation letter exists precisely to showcase your accomplishments. Make the most of this opportunity - let the admissions committee know how much you've accomplished.

8. Highlight other skills

It is likely thatyou have not spent the last 10 years studying the direction in which you now want to get a master's degree. Do not worry. Other experiences are important as well, as you need to show that you are capable of generating new ideas, are hardworking and have an interest in the subject. Teachers want to see well-rounded students in their courses, so your previous experience of teaching or participating in side activities is important.

9. State your goals

What is behind your desire to go to graduate school? Are you just trying to avoid adult problems and the real world? Of course not, but it should be clear in your application.

Will this program help you take your career goals to the next level? Or maybe you have a great idea for a doctoral dissertation, and the master's degree will be the first step in researching this issue? If so, write about it!Be specific and communicate to the admissions committee how this course will help you achieve your goals and personal development.

10. Seek professional help

Writing a motivation letter can be a very personal experience, but you are not alone. Prepare a draft of your application and select one of the educational agencies on our website with one of our consultants. We will help you finalize the documents so that no important information is missed and your experience and skills are presented in the best possible light. You can also browse the Master's and Postgraduate Studies pages on our website for more helpful tips on admission.

Julia Godlach