After you apply for a Master's course

Once you've finished applying for your Master's course, our admissions team will assess your application. You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. This could be a request for further information to help us make a decision about your application, other information that may be required or, if we can make a decision straight away, whether we can make you a successful offer.

Things we consider when assessing your application

past and predicted academic achievements and qualifications
extra-curricular activity such as work-experience, cultural and social life, and non-academic qualifications
your enthusiasm, commitment and potential
your references
your personal statement (if relevant)
interview performance (if relevant)
portfolio quality (if relevant)
admissions test (if relevant)
extenuating circumstances (if relevant)

Assessing applicants with relevant criminal convictions

If you've declared a relevant criminal conviction in your application, we'll contact you to confirm you've declared it correctly. Please don't give us details of the offences when you apply.

If you declare a conviction, your application will be passed to our University Criminal Convictions panel for a decision on whether we can make you an offer.

Fitness to practice

If you are invited to an interview for a professional healthcare or dental course, you'll be required to declare if you have ever been subject to any disciplinary procedures, or fitness to practice processes by any regulator, professional body, employer or educational establishment. If you declare a fitness to practice issue, your application will be passed to a senior member of faculty staff for the course you have applied for to make a decision on whether we can make you an offer.

What to do while you wait

There's plenty you can do to prepare for your studies between submitting your Master's application and receiving our decision. Find out about funding your studies, and finding the perfect home away from home.

Fees and funding for Master's courses

Explore Master's funding options, including loans, scholarships, bursaries and more.

Explore funding

Student accommodation

Take a look at where you'll stay when you study at Portsmouth, how much it'll cost, and what you'll get for your money – plus where to get housing support and how to get a guaranteed room in our halls.