International application guidance

Why we ask for this

Your academic qualifications help us understand whether you meet the entry requirements for your chosen course and whether you have the background needed to succeed in your studies. 

What you should provide

• Certificates for completed qualifications 
• Academic transcripts showing modules studied and grades achieved 
• Evidence of qualifications currently being studied 
• Official English translations where documents are not issued in English

Helpful reminder 

Make sure all uploaded documents are:

• Clear 
• Complete 
• Colour scans 
• Easy to read

We compare the information entered on your application with the documents you upload, so qualification titles, grades and dates should be accurate and consistent. 

Why we ask for this

To succeed in your studies, you'll need to demonstrate that you meet the English language requirements for your course. 

What you should provide 

Your document should clearly show: 

• Your full name 
• The qualification or test completed 
• Your overall result 
• Component scores (where relevant) 
• The date awarded or completed

Helpful link 

Not sure what evidence is accepted? 

View English Language Requirements

Why we ask for this

We ask for your full education history so we can understand your academic journey and how your previous studies have prepared you for your chosen course.

What you should include

• Accurate start and end dates 
• All schools, colleges and universities attended 
• Qualifications completed 
• Qualifications still in progress

Study gaps 

Many applicants have breaks between periods of education. 
If you've had a gap in your studies, simply explain what you were doing during that time, for example:

• Employment 
• Volunteering 
• Travelling 
• Caring responsibilities 
• Other activities

Tip: A clear timeline helps us understand your background and may reduce the need for further clarification. 

Why we ask for this

Your personal statement helps us understand your motivation for studying your chosen course and how it aligns with your future goals.

You may wish to include

• Why you are interested in the subject area 
• Why you have chosen this course 
• How your previous studies have prepared you 
• Relevant work or professional experience 
• Personal experience relevant to the course 
• Career aspirations and future plans 
• Explanations for study or employment gaps where relevant

Remember

The strongest personal statements are usually:

• Honest 
• Clear 
• Personal 
• Written in your own words

There is no need to use complicated language. 

Why we ask for this

Professional experience can be particularly important for postgraduate and professionally focused programmes.

What you should include

• Current employment 
• Previous employment 
• Job titles 
• Main responsibilities 
• Accurate employment dates
• Relevant professional experience 
• Explanations for career breaks where appropriate

Helpful tip

If your work experience influenced your decision to study the course, explain that connection within your application or personal statement.

For example: 

• Developing an interest in a specialist area 
• Identifying a skills gap 
• Seeking career progression 
• Changing career direction 

Why we ask for this

References and supporting evidence help us understand your academic ability, professional experience and suitability for the course. 

References should be

• Genuine 
• Accurate 
• Relevant 
• Provided by an appropriate referee

Professional references

Where a professional reference is required, this should normally be provided by your most recent employer or line manager.

Consistency matters 

We may compare information across:

• Academic documents 
• Personal statements 
• Employment history 
• References 
• Other supporting evidence

If information is unclear or does not match, we may need to request further information. 

Why we ask for this

These documents help us confirm your identity and assess any immigration requirements associated with your application.

Please ensure documents are 

• Clear 
• In colour 
• Readable 
• Valid and not expired

If you already hold immigration status

Please provide evidence of your status where relevant. This may include:

• A UKVI share code 
• Immigration documentation 
• Digital immigration status evidence

Providing this information during the application process may help reduce delays later. 

Some courses may require

• A portfolio of work 
• A research proposal 
• Evidence of professional registration 
• Details of relevant work experience 
• An interview 
• ATAS clearance (where applicable)

Helpful tip 

Additional requirements will normally be shown on the course page or communicated after application.

Please check the course-specific requirements carefully before submitting your application.