Master's Degree Abroad: Pre-Master, Deadlines and Visa

In short

• A master's degree abroad, especially in the UK, takes one year, and graduates receive a two-year work permit.
• Universities usually ask for UKVI IELTS 6.5.
• Applications usually run from October to June; aim to apply about four months before classes start.
• If your grades or English fall short, a Pre-Master leads directly into the master's program, and Pre-Master applications are open all year.
• For the student visa you need a CAS, UKVI IELTS, a bank statement, and an English transcript and diploma.

If you want to give your career an international direction after your bachelor's degree, a master's abroad is a strong option in terms of both time and experience. Here, EFC Education brings together the questions our students ask most often: how long programs take, what a Pre-Master is, when to apply, which documents you need and how the visa works. The details mainly apply to programs in the UK; requirements differ between universities and courses, and they can change over time.

Why do a master's degree abroad?

Universities abroad offer prestigious teaching and wide research opportunities, which makes them an attractive choice for postgraduate students. If you want to specialise in your field and learn to work in an international setting, the experience counts.

• Graduate in one year: A one-year master's in the UK is a big advantage compared with the many countries where it takes longer. You finish sooner and can start your career earlier.
• Work permit after graduation: Graduates receive a two-year work permit, a valuable chance to gain work experience abroad.
• Research opportunities: Working with academic staff on research-based projects also builds a solid foundation if you are thinking about a PhD later.

Work permit and visa rules depend on each country's immigration policy and can change, so always check the current rules with your advisor before you apply.

What is a Pre-Master and who is it for?

Language and grades are the two things that matter most for a master's offer. Universities look at your undergraduate grade point average and usually ask for UKVI IELTS 6.5.

A Pre-Master is a preparation program for students whose grades or English are not yet high enough for direct entry. Once you complete it, you move straight into the master's program. Pre-Master applications are open all year, so it is also a flexible option for timing.

If your academic record is strong and only your English needs work, there are two more routes:

• Language school: Improve your English before your master's with a language course abroad.
• Pre-sessional course: An English course taken before your master's begins, focused on academic English.

When should I apply for a master's abroad?

Applications usually run from October to June. There is no fixed deadline, but it is best to apply about four months before classes start. Applying early also leaves you time for the visa, accommodation and flights once you have your offer.

Pre-Master applications are open all year, but it still pays to plan early if you want to start in a particular intake.

Taking IELTS, writing your personal statement and collecting references all take time too. Starting these before the application window opens lets you build a strong application without rushing and apply to more than one university comfortably.

Which documents do I need?

• Undergraduate transcript and grade point average
• Personal statement
• Two reference letters
• A detailed CV
• UKVI IELTS 6.5
• Passport

The personal statement usually takes the most work. It should explain clearly, in your own voice, why you chose the program, what your academic background is and where you want to go next. References are strongest when they come from people who know your academic or professional work well.

What do I need for the student visa?

Once you have an offer, you apply for the Student visa (formerly Tier 4). The main documents are:

• CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
• UKVI IELTS result
• Bank statement
• English transcript and diploma

Visa requirements can change. EFC Education supports you through the visa application from start to finish.

Is a master's in Italy an option too?

Yes. Master's programs in Italy last one or two years and are completed with 60 or 120 credits; a thesis or internship is required to graduate. For programs starting in September or October, you apply between January and April, and you need an English certificate of at least B1. See our university in Italy page for details.

EFC Education supports students studying abroad with:

• Research of suitable schools and application support
• Visa applications
• Accommodation and flight arrangements
• Orientation and technical support

Not sure which country or program suits you? Talk to an EFC Education advisor and build a plan around your grades, your English level and your goals. You can read more on our master's degree page or get in touch with any questions.