Pre-Masters Courses in the UK for International Students

What is a Pre-Masters, and is it the same as a Master's?

A Pre-Masters is for international students who need to improve their English or develop research, academic writing, and seminar skills before pursuing a taught master's degree. Pre-Masters programmes in the UK are designed to fully prepare students for studying at the postgraduate level.

Courses range from ten weeks to twelve months and provide an essential grounding for successful postgraduate study. The benefits of a pre-masters include significantly increasing the English language and study skills required for successful postgraduate study and familiarising international students with UK teaching methods.

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Do I need to study a Pre-Masters?

You will need to take a Pre-Masters if:

• Your undergraduate degree does not meet the academic requirements of your chosen masters 
• You need to improve your use of academic or general English
• You need to improve your study, research and presentation skills

Why study a Pre-Masters in the UK?

Studying a Pre-Master’s allows you to develop further the knowledge acquired during your undergraduate degree while exploring new subjects or potential career paths. It provides an opportunity to enhance language skills and immerse yourself in a new culture, broadening your horizons.

A Pre-Masters enhances your career prospects by enabling you to study a full master's, equipping you with the qualifications and confidence to pursue higher-level opportunities in your chosen field.

UK Pre-Masters entry requirements

You must have finished an undergraduate degree with at least a pass at a recognised institution. A minimum IELTS score of 5.5 is generally required for a typical two-semester Pre-Masters.

Top Pre-Masters in the UK

UK universities welcome postgraduate students from all over the world, and you should not be discouraged if your academic and English language skills fall short of what is required. Learn more about some of the best Pre-Masters providers in the UK:

Pre-Masters FAQ

How many years is a Pre-Masters in the UK?

A Pre-Master can last as long as a year or as short as 2-semesters long, depending on the university.

What are the entry requirements for Pre-Masters in the UK?

The entry requirements vary, but generally, students need to have completed an undergraduate degree or an equivalent qualification. They may also need to show proficiency in English through exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

How does a Pre-Masters work?

Like foundation courses, Pre-Masters are for international students who are not eligible to directly apply for a master’s degree because they need to improve written or spoken English or general study skills to meet entry requirements.

How much does it cost to get Pre-Masters in the UK?

The cost of a Pre-Masters in the UK depends on the university and the programme's duration. Typically, tuition fees range from £7,000 to £15,000 per year. Additional expenses like accommodation, living costs, and study materials must also be considered.

Studying a Pre-Masters in the UK

If you are an international student interested in postgraduate study in the UK, arrange your free consultation today.