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Late application advice
The Admissions Team at the University of Brighton have great advice on submitting a late application for a postgraduate course.
Question: Is it worth submitting a late application for a PG program?
Answer: If you’ve recently decided to continue studying, were waiting for your results, or missed the original deadline, it’s still worth applying, as many universities accept late applications. Applying late only affects your chances if a course is full or has already begun, so it’s worth exploring your options.
Masters programs often remain open into the summer, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. PhD applications are typically accepted year-round and may not have fixed deadlines. International students should check deadlines carefully, as visa processing may require applications to be submitted earlier.
To check whether you can still apply, you can:
- Visit the course page on the university website
- Contact the admissions or enquiries team
- Search UCAS postgraduate listings to find open courses
If a course is still accepting applications, ask about funding and accommodation deadlines, as the university may offer bursaries or scholarships. The UK government also offers loans to help with tuition fees and living costs. You’ll need to factor in time to apply via Student Finance England to ensure funding is in place before your course begins. If the program is full, consider similar courses or applying for a later intake.
Application advice
Take time to ensure the course and university are right for you. Attending open days, campus tours, or subject events can help you decide.
For PhD applicants, your research proposal is key. Review university research and identify a supervisor to support your application, then contact them.
Some of the documents required for a postgraduate application may include:
- Academic transcripts
- References
- Personal statement
- Portfolio (if applicable)
- English language evidence
- Visa documentation
- Funding applications
These may take time to gather, and some courses may require interviews, so factor this into your timeline.
Once submitted, applications are usually reviewed promptly. At the University of Brighton, we assess each application individually, considering a range of factors to ensure fair access for all applicants. We then support you through the next steps before you start your course.
Applying late does not necessarily limit accommodation options. Many institutions offer housing in halls or support with finding suitable alternatives.
Some masters options to consider
- January start dates: Some courses offer multiple intakes, providing flexibility if you miss the September start. At Brighton, many postgraduate taught courses also offer January start dates.
- Conversion courses: Change career direction without needing a related undergraduate degree, with options across many disciplines. Business, psychology, computing, health, teaching, and law are some subjects we offer conversion courses for at Brighton. When applying, be sure to check any additional requirements to avoid delays to your start date or placement.
- Deferred entry: If the timing isn’t right, you may be able to defer your offer to the following academic year. Contact the university to check how this works and your options.
Find out more about applying for a postgraduate degree at the University of Brighton.
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