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Find answers to frequently asked questions about applications to our current programmes.
Please visit our prospectus pages for comprehensive information on:
- Programme content and modules
- Entry requirements, incl. international equivalencies and English language standards
- Fees and funding
- Graduate careers
Eligibility and applications
- Will my chances of being accepted to UCL improve if I apply for more than one MSc course?
You will only be offered a place on a UCL programme if you meet the entry requirements listed on the relevant UCL prospectus page. Please note, the standard application fee for UCL Masters programmes is £75 for online applications, and £100 for paper applications. Fees apply for each application submitted. You can read more about UCL Application fees here.
You may apply for as many programmes as you wish, but we recommend you visit the UCL online prospectus to define the programme which best suits your educational background, and your career goals and ambitions.
- I am currently studying and do not yet have my final results. Should I wait to receive my transcript before applying?
If your predicted final results meet our minimum entry requirements, you can apply before receiving your final degree results. You should include details of your predicted results on your application form, and an official transcript of your results so far. If we are able to make you an offer of study, it will be conditional, so you will need to prove that you meet the condition before the beginning of the course.
- My degree results are under a 2:1, can I be considered anyway?
No, unfortunately, we are not able to consider any candidates below the minimum entry requirements. This includes applicants with a current average grade below a 2:1 (or international equivalent).
- May I speak to the Programme Director or Administrator about my qualifications and interest in the programme?
Unfortunately, due to the extremely high volume of applications received, it is not possible for staff to meet personally with applicants before they have been given an offer of study.
- My application has been unsuccessful. Can I find out why and request to be reconsidered?
Unfortunately we are unable to give details about application decisions, and we cannot reconsider a decision.
- Can I defer my place?
Unfortunately, due the large volume of applications for our programmes, we do not offer deferrals. If you do not wish to take up your place this September you will need to withdraw and reapply for the programme next year.
- What is the application word count?
You have two options to submit your personal statement. You can type your personal statement in the online application form, where there is a 3000-character limit, including spaces. Alternatively you can upload it as a separate document, which allows you to include more than 3000 characters. However, you statement still may not exceed two sides of A4 paper (size 12 font and single-spaced).
Documents and transcripts
- What documents do I need to apply?
You will need to include a degree transcript in one of the suggested disciplines, two references, and a personal statement. Overseas applicants should also supply evidence of their English-language ability, usually an IELTS test result.
- My referees are not able to provide references electronically. Can I provide hard copy reference letters?
The UCL Admissions team strongly advise applicants to submit their references using the online applicant portal. This allows a direct upload and reduces delays to UCL receiving references. Referees are given the opportunity to complete our online form or upload a scanned or digital copy of a reference they have already written. If a referee cannot use this functionality, they should email their reference directly to admissions@ucl.ac.uk from their official university or professional email account, so UCL Admissions can verify its authenticity. The submission of paper documents is discouraged, as UCL Admissions is a paperless system. Find out more about UCL application form guidance here.
- Do I need GRE/GMAT to apply?
No GRE/GMAT are required to apply for either programme.
English-language requirements
- I have studied in English; do I need to take a language test?
The UCL English-language requirements website shows the different types of language competency evidence that can be provided.
MSc Banking and Digital Finance and MSc Venture Capital and Private Equity with FinTech have an English-language requirement of GOOD. This is equivalent to an IELTS overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests. IELTS (academic version) is UCL's preferred English language qualification.
- I am going to take an English test later in the year, can I still apply now?
You may apply now for a place on a programme without a current English test as long as you send your qualification as soon as your receive it. If you are offered a place, it will be conditional on your providing evidence of English before the start of the course.
Programme information
- How long is the programme and what are the term dates?
The programme lasts for a full calendar year from September to September. Term dates are available here. Please note the programme involves study and engagement across all three terms, and during the summer.
- Can I obtain a scholarship or funding?
Find out more about UCL's scholarships and funding and search for eligible scholarships or funding sources. UCL postgraduate fees and funding also provides information and advice. Many governments offer postgraduate funding support to their citizens, particularly for international study, so do explore this option too.
- What careers support is available to students studying on this programme?
Please visit UCL Careers for information about UCL's dedicated careers support.
- If I take the part-time route, does this mean classes are taught at weekends or in the evening?
If you take the part-time route, you will still study with the full-time cohort but take half the modules per year. This means you take two modules per term instead of four, usually over one or two days a week, where possible.
In the first year you would usually take 60 credits, and the second year you would take another 60 taught credits, plus 60 for your dissertation. This should be worked on in term 3 through to September, when you would not have any taught classes.