Postgraduate taught programmes at University of Sheffield: How to apply

Applying for a master’s degree is an exciting step! If you're looking at a Postgraduate Taught (PGT) programme at the University of Sheffield, the process is designed to be straightforward. The most important thing is to be organised and submit your application early, especially for popular courses.

Here is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how to submit your application and what to do next.

Part 1: Before You Apply - Getting Ready

Before you start filling out the form, you need to know exactly what you’re applying for and what paperwork you need to gather.

1. Choose Your Course

Make sure you have carefully researched your chosen course. Note the full course title and check for any specific entry requirements or departmental notes, as some departments might require additional documents like a writing sample or an interview.

You can apply for up to three different postgraduate courses using the one online application system.

2. Gather Your Supporting Documents

Most postgraduate taught courses require you to upload a set of core documents. It is best to have high-quality, scanned colour copies of these ready to upload to your online form.

The typical documents you will need include:

Evidence of Previous Qualifications: This includes your academic transcripts and degree certificates. If your original documents are not in English, you must provide certified translations. If you haven't finished your current studies yet, you can still apply! Any conditions will be part of your offer.
Personal Statement: For most PGT courses, a formal supporting statement is not strictly required, though you may be asked some motivating questions as part of the online form. Check your specific course page—if a full personal statement is required, aim for around 300 to 750 words.
Academic References: For most PGT courses, the University does not require references as standard. However, some courses do require one or two. Always check your specific course page. If a reference is required, it should be dated no more than two years before the course start date.

Part 2: Submitting Your Application

The entire application process is done using the Postgraduate Online Application Form. There is generally no application fee for applying to Postgraduate Taught master’s programmes.

A Step-by-Step Application Guide:

Access the Online Form: Locate the official Postgraduate Online Application Form on the University of Sheffield website.
Complete Part 1 (Personal Details): This section asks for your personal information, contact details, English language ability, and details of your previous education and employment. You must complete all mandatory fields (marked with an asterisk).
Complete Part 2 (Course Selection): Here, you will select the one, two, or three postgraduate courses you wish to apply for.
Upload Documents: Upload your supporting documents (transcripts, certificates, personal statement/CV if required) to the relevant sections.
Review and Submit: Your application is only submitted when you click the 'Submit Application' button for a course choice. You will receive an on-screen confirmation and an email confirmation for each successful submission.

Part 3: Key Timelines and Deadlines 🗓️

Postgraduate applications are generally processed on a rolling basis, which means there isn't a single deadline for all courses.

Apply Early: The University strongly recommends applying as early as possible, as popular courses may fill up quickly. Applications for a September intake often open a year in advance.
Latest Application Date: While there's no fixed end date for every course, if you are an international applicant who will need a student visa, you should aim to apply well in advance of the latest possible start date for your course. The course pages will have the final deadlines.

Part 4: Considering Personal Circumstances

The University of Sheffield is committed to a fair admissions process and has policies in place to support various applicants.

1. Disrupted Studies

If your studies or academic performance in post-16 or undergraduate education were negatively affected by serious personal, social, or domestic issues (like a period of serious illness, a bereavement, or being a main carer), you can inform the University via a Disrupted Studies form.

This allows the admissions team to consider the circumstances alongside your academic record.

2. Disabled Applicants

The University welcomes applications from disabled students and manages the assessment process to ensure fairness:

Academic Assessment: Your academic suitability is assessed only by the academic selector, based on your qualifications.
Support Assessment: Your support requirements are handled separately by the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS). You are encouraged to declare any disability on your online application. This is optional, but it helps the DDSS contact you to discuss and arrange any necessary support (like exam adjustments or accommodation needs) before you start your course.