Applying for a postgraduate taught programme, like an MSc, MA, or LLM, at a top institution like the University of Bristol can seem complex. This guide breaks down the entire application process into clear, manageable steps. Our goal is to make your application strong, complete, and submitted on time!

Part 1: Before You Apply - Getting Organised

A successful application starts with careful planning. Do these three things before you even open the online form.

1. Choose Your Programme and Check the Requirements

Start by finding the exact programme you want to study in the postgraduate online prospectus. Every course has a detailed Admissions Statement—you must read this. It contains crucial information like:

1. Specific Entry Requirements: While the general requirement is typically a good honours degree (often a 2:1), some programmes require a higher grade, a degree in a specific subject, or relevant work experience.
2. Required Documents: This lists everything you must upload, as requirements can vary by course.
3. Application Deadline: This is critical. Many taught programmes have fixed deadlines and places can fill up early, so applying well in advance is highly recommended.

2. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Gathering your documents early prevents last-minute stress. They must be uploaded as high-quality scans or digital files.

1. Academic Transcripts and Certificates:
2. If you have completed your degree: Provide the final certificate and official transcript confirming your final grade.
3. If you are still studying: Provide transcripts showing your results so far. Any offer made to you will be conditional on achieving the required final grade.
4. Personal Statement: This is your chance to shine! It should be approximately 1,000 words and clearly describe:
5. Your skills, academic achievements, and experience.
6. Your genuine interest and motivation for studying this specific programme at Bristol.
7. English Language Certificate (If Applicable): If English is not your first language, you will need a recognised test score (like IELTS or TOEFL) that meets the profile required for your chosen programme.
8. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Essential for programmes that value professional experience.
9. References: Some programmes require academic references. You can often upload these directly if you have them, or you will provide your referee's email address, and the University will contact them.

Part 2: The Online Application Process

The application is submitted entirely through the University's online application portal.

3. Start and Complete the Online Form

1. Access the Form: You can click the 'Apply now' button on your programme's prospectus page or go directly to the portal.
2. Create an Account: New applicants need to set up an account. Remember to use a current email address that you will monitor even after you graduate from your current studies.
3. Fill in All Sections: The application is broken down into multiple sections. You can save your progress and return to it later, but ensure you complete every mandatory part.
4. Upload Your Documents: Upload all the supporting documents you prepared in Step 2. Files must not be password protected or contain macros.

4. Pay the Application Fee (If Required)

Some postgraduate taught programmes require a non-refundable application fee.

1. You must pay this fee to submit your application, or you must successfully request an application fee waiver if you are eligible under the University's policy.
2. Information on the fee is noted on the application form and in the funding section of the programme's admissions statement.

5. Submit Your Application

Review every section one final time to ensure all information is accurate and all required documents are attached. Once submitted, your application becomes the official property of the University. You will receive an email confirmation and a link to your Applicant Portal.

Part 3: After You Apply - Tracking and Decisions

Your journey doesn't end when you hit submit.

6. Track Your Application in the Applicant Portal

The Applicant Portal is your single source of truth. You can log in to:

1. View its status (e.g., 'Awaiting assessment').
2. Upload additional documents if the University requests them or if you receive new final grades.
3. Check the status of your references and resend a reminder to your referee if needed.

7. The Decision Timeline

For most taught postgraduate programmes, the University aims to provide a decision within 30 working days once a complete application (with all required documentation) has been received.

8. Dealing with Special Situations

1. Extenuating Circumstances: If you feel that your academic performance was significantly impacted by personal circumstances (such as illness or bereavement), the University has a policy allowing you to submit evidence for them to consider alongside your application. You must submit this information at the time of application.
2. Guaranteed Offers: Certain partnership agreements may allow students from specific institutions who meet high standards to receive a guaranteed offer. This is an exception and will be communicated directly to eligible applicants.

By following these steps, you will ensure your application to the University of Bristol is thorough, well-supported, and submitted correctly, maximising your chance of securing a place!

References

1. University of Bristol: How to apply
2. University of Bristol: When to apply
3. University of Bristol: Start application
4. University of Bristol: Supporting documents
5. University of Bristol: Extenuating circumstances
6. University of Bristol: Guaranteed offers