If you are thinking of applying for a postgraduate taught programme (such as an MSc or MRes) at Imperial College London, it is essential to fully understand the entry requirements. Clear awareness of the academic qualifications, English language standards and acceptable international credentials will help you prepare a strong application. Here is an easy-to-read overview of what to expect and how to prepare.

What Are the General Entry Requirements?

For postgraduate taught courses at Imperial the entry requirements vary by department, centre or institute.

However all applicants must demonstrate the following:

1. They meet the course competency requirements (typically via a prior degree or equivalent qualification, and sometimes relevant work experience or an admissions test).
2. They meet the English language requirements as specified for the course.
3. They normally apply with their expected final grades; only once an offer is made are full final results required.

Because of competition, meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission: many courses ask for higher standards.

Accepted Qualifications: International and UK Examples

Imperial publishes a detailed list of international qualifications it accepts and the minimum standard expected for postgraduate taught study.

Here are some key highlights and typical expectations:

1. UK: A Bachelor’s degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) is normally required for many programmes.
2. Australia: A Bachelor’s degree with Honours; a Lower Second Class Honours may be considered, but normally an Upper Second Class honours is required.
3. China: A Bachelor’s degree from a Project 211 or equivalent university with a final overall mark of around 80% or better. Preference for 85% or better.
4. Bangladesh: A four-year Bachelor’s degree with around 75% is cited as a typical minimum in the list.
5. Many other countries have listed equivalents: for example Spain, Portugal, South Africa, etc, each with their local minimum percentages or honours classifications.

How to Use This Information and Prepare Your Application

Here are practical steps to help you prepare:

1. Check your exact programme’s requirements: While the general entry requirement list gives a baseline, each department may ask for higher grades, specific undergraduate subject backgrounds, or relevant work experience.
2. Assess your degree: Compare your first degree’s classification, percentage, GPA or honours with the typical expectations for your country in the accepted qualifications list. If you are slightly below, you may still apply but you should strengthen other parts of your application (e.g., relevant experience, strong reference, personal statement).
3. Prepare your English language certification: Ensure you meet the English language test requirement (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) as defined for your programme. Start early so that results are ready when needed.
4. Highlight suitability and experience: Since meeting the minimum academic qualification is only part of the application, use your personal statement, CV and references to demonstrate your motivation, relevant skills, and readiness for the degree.
5. Apply on time: Submit your application with all required documents, predicted grades if still studying, and ensure your transcripts, references and English test scores (if required) will be ready in good time.
6. If you are international or with a less common qualification, make sure to check the “Accepted qualifications” list or contact the Admissions team if your qualification isn’t clearly listed. Being proactive can save surprises.

Key Take-aways

1. A strong bachelor’s level qualification is essential; for many programmes, this means an Upper Second Class honours (or equivalent) or strong percentage in your country.
2. Meeting the minimum is necessary but not sufficient; your application must also show fit, preparedness, and language ability.
3. International applicants should map their degree against Imperial’s accepted qualifications list and consider where they stand compared to the norms for their country.
4. Preparation ahead of time—especially for English proficiency and documenting your experience—will make your application smoother and stronger.

References

1. https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/entry-requirements/
2. https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/entry-requirements/accepted-qualifications/