Your postgraduate application
Start your postgraduate journey
Ready to apply for a Master's or other postgraduate taught programme? We'll help you every step of the way - from finding your perfect course to personal statement advice. You can also find out about entry requirements and what we look at in your application.
Let's get started!
How to apply, step by step
- Check the entry requirements on your chosen course page to see if you’re eligible and check for additional criteria e.g. portfolio requirement.
- If English isn't your first language, please check the English requirements on the course webpage. If you do not meet them, you can do an English course with us before starting your degree.
- Gather supporting evidence for your application. This can be a qualification certificate, transcript or a current CV.
- Most of our courses request a supporting reference. However, please check the course page or with the Admissions Team if a second one is necessary to apply.
- Write a personal statement to introduce yourself and outline why you're a compelling candidate for your chosen course
You can then apply through the course page - the “Apply” section is at the base of the course page. It's free to apply online and you can complete one section at a time and return to submit it when you're ready.
Are you a current Portsmouth student?
As a Portsmouth student you can use the quick and easy Fast Track route to apply for your Master’s.
We already know you, so we won't ask for references or a personal statement, saving you time and effort. And, with our Alumni tuition fee discount, you could save 20% on your fees.
Courses with different ways to apply
Check below to see if your chosen course has a different application process.
To study a PGCE with us, you'll need to apply directly to the Department for Education (DfE).
To apply for these courses, you need to first contact the Learning at Work department to discuss your work objectives so they can tailor the course to your and your employer's needs.
You should make your application for MSc Social Work course directly to UCAS.
To make an application to an MRes course, you can apply online.
Additionally, you'll need to include a brief research proposal outlining your area of interest.
Application deadline for postgraduate courses
It's best to apply as soon as possible before the start of your course. This way, you won’t miss out on the critical opening weeks of your course and University events.
Starting in September
The majority of courses start on 16 September, however some will have earlier/later start dates. Please contact us if you would like confirmation of your course start date. If you apply after 30 September, we cannot guarantee that your application will be processed in time to make you an offer for this year's entry.
Starting in January
The majority of our courses start on 15 January, however some will have earlier/later start dates. Please contact us if you would like confirmation of your course start date. If you apply after 26 January, we cannot guarantee that your application will be processed in time to make you an offer for January entry.
Choosing your Master's course
Find the course you want
You might have only just started thinking about doing a Master's qualification, or you might have you heart set on a specific course. Wherever you are in the process, narrow down your search to the courses that fit your situation.
On our course search, filter courses by award, mode of study and start date. This will help you refine your search - so if you want to earn while you study, or join us as a part-time student, you can find the best course.
Check your eligibility
Each course page lists the entry requirements you need to meet to get a place on the course. But because we know there's more than one route into Master's study, if you don't meet all the standard criteria, we still want to hear from you.
You can find a contact on your chosen course page and get in touch with us to discuss your application.
Postgraduate open days
Get to know us better at one of our events and experience life as a postgrad at Portsmouth.
In-person and online events.
Are you an international student?
Our application process differs for students applying from outside of the UK. There's much more to consider as an international applicant, such as English language requirements, CAS and visa processes, and varying application deadlines.
Make sure you refer to our international students page to ensure you've got everything covered.
Ready to explore more?
Use the links below to find out what happens after you apply, how to write your personal statement, get help and advice, and more.
