Application process

Discover our step-by-step guide to applying for our online master’s courses.

Focus more on your future and less on paperwork.

We've designed our application process to be simple and hassle-free. You can then start your journey towards advanced education with ease. In a few simple steps, you can submit your application from anywhere in the world. Our friendly advisers are here to guide you through each stage, from enquiry to submission.

What you'll need to apply

Watch our short video on what documents you'll need to provide when you apply for one of our online master's degrees.

Read video transcript

Hello and welcome. In this short video, I’ll be guiding you through the application process for the University of Southampton’s online postgraduate degree programmes. I’ll explain each step of the application, what information you’ll need to provide, and share a few tips to help you submit a strong application with confidence.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to apply now, this video is designed to make the process as clear and straightforward as possible. So let’s get started.

Our applications are split into three groups: standard applicants, non-standard applicants, and those looking to join us via the performance pathway.

For a standard applicant, we would require a copy of your degree certificate and transcripts. In some cases, transcripts may not be required if they were not provided by your previous institution, depending on when you completed your bachelor’s degree. Please reach out to your student recruitment consultant for individual guidance on whether this applies to you.

We also require a copy of your passport, or other valid ID if a passport is not available. This must be in date for the programme start date and submitted as a colour photograph.

For all non-standard applicants, we would need everything required for a standard application, as well as some additional information.

First, we require a personal statement of 300–500 words. Guidance on how to structure this can be found on the programme webpage.

As a top tip, we recommend avoiding bullet points and clearly explaining why you want to study the programme, what interests you about the subject, and the benefits you hope to gain. Please also make sure you mention the name of the programme and confirm that the statement is specifically for the University of Southampton.

Please also submit an up-to-date CV. We recommend highlighting any experience that is particularly relevant to your programme of interest.

In addition, we require a reference. This can be an academic reference if your studies were recent; however, most applicants provide a professional reference. In this case, your current line manager should complete the reference form that we can provide.

If you do not already have a copy of the reference form, please contact your student recruitment consultant to request one. The referee will need to complete all sections of the form, including dates, and ensure it is signed and dated. Digital signatures are accepted.

Where available, we also recommend submitting copies of any relevant professional qualifications, particularly those related to your current industry or the programme you are applying for.

For applicants applying via the performance pathway, the non-standard application guidance largely applies. However, we understand that you may not have a degree certificate or transcript to provide.

In these cases, relevant professional qualifications are especially important, and we strongly encourage you to submit a small portfolio of any evidence you have. We also recognise that many applicants bring substantial professional experience, even if formal qualifications are limited.

If English is not your first language or you are not based in the UK, you may be asked to provide proof of English language proficiency. There are several ways to do this.

You may be able to use a professional reference if you are currently working entirely in English and can evidence a minimum of two years in this context. We can provide guidance if you need further information.

We also accept widely recognised English language qualifications such as IELTS and the Duolingo English Test. For specific requirements, please contact your student recruitment consultant for individual advice.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by an admissions officer and processed as quickly as possible.

Some applications may require faculty approval before an offer is issued. Your student recruitment consultant will then be in touch to guide you through the next steps, including accepting your place on the programme.

Deciding to pursue a master’s degree is a really positive step. We encourage you to reach out to your student recruitment consultant if you have any questions or need support at any stage of the process.

We wish you the very best of luck with your application and are here to support you in any way we can. Thank you.

Applying for your master’s degree: a step-by-step guide

Step 1: Check the entry requirements

Found a course you like? Check that you meet its entry requirements on the course page:

Don’t worry if you don’t meet all the requirements, though. We’d still love to hear from you if you have equivalent professional experience or qualifications!

Step 2: Chat to our team

To chat to our team, you’ll need to register your interest in a course by filling in and submitting our contact form. Our course adviser team will receive your details and get in touch to book a call. In this initial call, the adviser will want to learn more about your background and experience. They can then tell you whether our course is the right choice for you and your future aspirations.

If the course is right for you, then you'll have a dedicated course adviser to support you through every step of the application process. They may also contact you about any virtual Q&A or course showcase events that would be useful to you.

If you have any questions about your course of interest or would like some advice before submitting your application, simply reach out to them. Again, register your interest here and someone will quickly be in touch.

Step 3: Meet the English language requirements

You’ll need to provide evidence of your English language ability equivalent to an IELTS (academic) score of 6.5. All components should have a minimum score of 6.0. For non-IELTS equivalents of this score, please refer to the table below:

Test	Overall score	Minimum component score
TOEFL (including Home Edition)	92	Reading: 22 Writing: 21 Listening: 21 Speaking: 23
Pearson PTE	68	No component below 64
Duolingo	120-125	Literacy: 105 Conversation: 105 Comprehension: 110 Production: 85

Please note that you will not need to provide evidence of English language ability if:

You’re a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, one of the countries recognised for English language proficiency. Please contact our adviser team to confirm if your country qualifies.

You can demonstrate that you’ve worked professionally in English for at least 2 years. In this case, a professional reference letter will be required.

You have completed an undergraduate degree taught and assessed in English up to 2 years preceding the date of first enrolment at the University of Southampton. In the case of degrees taught by two or more partner institutions of which only one is taught and assessed in English, you must demonstrate that a minimum of 2 years have been taught and assessed in English.

You have been awarded a degree that was fully taught and assessed in English between two and five years prior to the date of first enrolment at the University and can demonstrate that you’ve worked professionally in English for a minimum of 12 months in the last two years. In this case, a professional reference letter will be required.

Step 4: Gather your references and documents

To start your course application, visit the Apply Now page to access our application portal. There, you can start adding the details needed for your application.

To process your master’s application, we’ll need a few documents from you. This will include:

Photographic proof of identity, ideally a scan of your passport.

Certificates and Transcripts of any degrees or qualifications you hold, listed on your application.

Certificates of any active professional qualifications you hold.

An up-to-date CV, covering any gaps in employment if applicable.

A professional reference from your most recent employer, explaining why they feel you’re a good candidate for the programme. If you haven’t any recent work experience, we may accept a reference from a former academic, such as a previous University Tutor.

Proof of English language proficiency.

Your personal statement. We’ll share more details about writing this in the next step.

You may need to provide additional documents depending on the course you’re applying for. For further information, check your course page or contact your course adviser.

Step 5: Write your personal statement

Your personal statement should be around 300 to 500 words. Use it to tell us about your interest in the course and how it aligns with your career goals. Explain how your experience so far has prepared you for success at master's level. You’ll need to highlight examples that demonstrate your abilities in:

time management

organisation

communication

teamwork

personal responsibility

critical thinking

problem-solving

For clear, practical advice on how to write a personal statement, head to our blog post on the topic. You can also send your personal statement to your dedicated course adviser. They can give you feedback and guidance on improving it.

Step 6: Visit our application portal

To start your course application, visit the Apply Now page to access our application portal. There, you can start adding the details needed for your application.

You can save your progress and resume at any time up until the application deadline.

Step 7: Submit your application

Once you've uploaded all your documents to the portal, our Admissions team will review your application. You can expect a response within approximately 10 working days. If you have any questions in the meantime, feel free to reach out to your course adviser.

Step 8: Accept your offer

Got an offer to join the course? Congratulations! You’ll now need to work on meeting any conditions (if applicable) and accept your offer.

To accept your offer, you’ll need to return a signed copy of the acceptance form found in your offer letter and pay the £350 acceptance fee. Please note, the acceptance fee is not an additional cost. It’s included in and deducted from your total tuition fees.

Once you’ve done this, we’ll send you details about enrolment, onboarding and orientation.

Andy Yiu, on-campus University of Southampton student

“The highly professional and supportive faculty enriched my learning experience, which fostered a wonderful environment for study and development."

Andy Yiu, on-campus student

Online admissions FAQs

Find answers to frequently answered questions about our online master's course admissions process.

Who can I list as a reference? Do all courses require one for entry?

To process your master’s application, we will need a few documents from you, including a reference. Most courses require a professional reference from your most recent employer, explaining why they believe you are a strong candidate for the programme. If you do not have recent work experience, we may accept an academic reference from a former university tutor or lecturer.

Check your course’s entry requirements or speak with your course adviser for more information.

How long does the process take?

You can expect to hear an outcome from our Admissions team about 10 working days after you submit your application.

Who should I contact if I need support?

If you have any questions or need support, contact your course adviser.

Fees and payments

Get full details on fees and payment options.

Study experience

Discover life as an online student.

Get in touch

Got questions about our courses? Need guidance with your application? Our team of advisers is here to help. Fill in the form below to register your interest, and they’ll contact you shortly.