How to stand the best chance?

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  1. lozzyhickers's Avatar
    • PS Helper
    • Peer Of The TSR Realm
    • Location: Norwich/Lincoln
    • Posts: 1,627
    How to stand the best chance?
    Hello,

    I'm about to start my 2nd year of my BSc in Psychology. After my BSc i'd like to study towards a MRes or MSc in Clinical/Cognitive Neuroscience. The universities I am currently considering are Westminster, Kings, Goldsmiths, ICL and UCL. UCL would of course be my dream. I just have a few questions about the process.

    1. When would it be that I apply, during my 3rd year, or after?
    2. When applying for funding, do you apply for this when you apply for the course, or before, or after?
    3.How many masters degrees can you apply for in one year? Is there any limit? And is there any limit for how many you can apply for at the same uni?
    4. Most importantly, what can I do to stand the best chance of getting on the course of my dreams?

    Thank you very much, and apologies for the long-ish post.
    Last edited by lozzyhickers; 06-08-2012 at 15:15.
  2. chrisjar's Avatar
    • Exalted Member
    • Location: Wales/Cambridge
    • Posts: 358
    Re: How to stand the best chance?
    (Original post by lozzyhickers)
    Hello,

    I'm about to start my 2nd year of my BSc in Psychology. After my BSc i'd like to study towards a MRes or MSc in Clinical/Cognitive Neuroscience. The universities I am currently considering are Westminster, Kings, Goldsmiths, ICL and UCL. UCL would of course be my dream. I just have a few questions about the process.

    1. When would it be that I apply, during my 3rd year, or after?
    2. When applying for funding, do you apply for this when you apply for the course, or before, or after?
    3.How many masters degrees can you apply for in one year? Is there any limit? And is there any limit for how many you can apply for at the same uni?
    4. Most importantly, what can I do to stand the best chance of getting on the course of my dreams?

    Thank you very much, and apologies for the long-ish post.

    1. Applications usually open around November/December, so it would be your third year, yes.
    2. It will depend on the course. The course itself may be funded, but this tends to be less likely with masters. You'll probably have to apply for the course then investigate funding options (can't say I know much about masters funding myself).
    3. There's no limit, it's not through UCAS or anything.
    4.I don't know much about your field, but just try and get some kind of practical experience in the field, perhaps through an internship or something.

    Good luck!
  3. Inglenook's Avatar
    • Junior Member
    • Posts: 47
    Re: How to stand the best chance?
    Hello,

    I'm about to start my 2nd year of my BSc in Psychology. After my BSc i'd like to study towards a MRes or MSc in Clinical/Cognitive Neuroscience. The universities I am currently considering are Westminster, Kings, Goldsmiths, ICL and UCL. UCL would of course be my dream. I just have a few questions about the process.

    1. When would it be that I apply, during my 3rd year, or after?
    2. When applying for funding, do you apply for this when you apply for the course, or before, or after?
    3.How many masters degrees can you apply for in one year? Is there any limit? And is there any limit for how many you can apply for at the same uni?
    4. Most importantly, what can I do to stand the best chance of getting on the course of my dreams?

    Thank you very much, and apologies for the long-ish post.
    1. As previous poster said - applications tend to open November/December, though check the specific unis since some may open earlier.
    2. As far as I'm aware, funding is often difficult to get for Masters degrees, and MRes in particular. Most people I know pay for their MSc with a Career Development Loan (CDL)- check the unis for scholarships/funding options/opportunities & deadlines. You're unlikely to be able to secure funding BEFORE the offer of a place.
    3. Nothing to add here!
    4. As above, I don't know about your subject but here are a couple of tips: choose your referees carefully - these can hold alot of weight and an excellent reference can really tip the balance in your favour; take time over your applications - try to convey your enthusiasm for the subject/course, check for spelling/grammar errors, highlight any relevant extra-curriculars, have your CV checked; apply early & finally work hard so you can show them a good academic record!

    ETA: If your dissertation (if you do one) is relevant, this can also be very helpful
    Last edited by Inglenook; 06-08-2012 at 17:39. Reason: To add content
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