Uni masters studies - AIBU, dont have the 2.1 required but want to apply.

[MrsOprah]

AIBU, am i just wasting my time, I want to apply for a masters but they're asking for a minimum 2.1, I have 2.2

Any uni lecturers or admissions staff, or students who could enlighten me?

I'm halfway through my distance learning masters with SOAS University of London. The minimum entry was a 2:1 and I only had a 2:2 but applied anyway and got in no problem. I did have work experience which was relevant though.

It can't hurt to try.

It must be worth a try - any other relevant credentials you can use to bump up your application a bit?

Why don't you make an initial enquiry with their admissions people? They would be able to better advise. I've done this in the past when I haven't been sure if my experience/qualifications are sufficient.

Hi, admissions officer here.

Loads of applications come in, so if you're not meeting criteria and have nothing else you'll be rejected. Depending on the course, work experience may be relevant; our usual rule is 3+ years post graduation in a directly associated field. It will still need to be sent for assessment by the tutor though, and they'll want to see your transcript. If you're going for physics or engineering and you were getting below 60% in your maths modules you're out of luck.

If you're looking at an MBA at a half decent uni though, don't bother. All the ones I'm aware of are super strict on requirements and the ones that aren't you'll want to check their accreditation very, very carefully.

On the website is there someone to contact like the course leader? I'd email them directly. I got a 2.2 and did a masters I think it just depends on which uni

Absolutely you should apply - they will often bend the criteria, especially if you have something else such as experience, can demonstrate an interest in the subject etc. Good luck!

Just apply. Its all about money now anyway. (Not for every course obs)

I did this and got in. Was 10 years ago mind. Helped that I had a 2.1 in the module my masters was on, even tho my degree was a 2.2 overall.

thanks @stronggail
Thats a good uni you're at too.

@MyOtherUsernameisaPun
I've 4 years in industry/workplace, but idk how much that brings to the table tbh

@MephistophelesApprentice
super useful, thank you!
not an MBA, they seem to be the last super strict gatekeepers!
its STEM subject, I've requested my transcripts, uni is painfully slow, so ive chased it up. I did well in industry (but they dont ask for cv, so will shoehorn include those details into personal statement)

the course is very niche.
last year had 17 applicants, 10 place available.
This year, they've reopened admissions which had closed in march/april. Im guessing not enough applicants or not enough suitable (?)

I guess I'm asking if AIBU - as in, will they just look at undergrad result and not get over first hurdle. crisis of confidence i guess

Go for it. They’ll let you on with your work experience

@kshaw
theyve put course leader and deputy's details online. i did consider contacting them but wondered if it looked a bit grabby

@Melliegrantfirstlady
didnt realise work achievements bore weight, your input has been a help!

@Jazzybeats
Ooooo i did get a 2.1 in my lab project/dissertation, which is indirectly relevant to the course - there might be hope! lol thanks

Depends. I got a 2:2 in Russian studies because my language skills weren't good enough. But my area studies were high. Russian Literature first class, literature teacher recommended MA in Russian Literature and wrote an amazing supporting letter.

Mine would have taken anyone's money.

I know someone who's currently doing a Master's despite only getting a Third in her first degree. She was rejected from most places she applied to, but emphasised her enthusiasm, the particular circumstances which lead to her getting a Third (ie it wasn't a real reflection of her abilities), and I think crucially, managed to get a one-to-one chat with a tutor in her subject.

There are some Master's programmes which don't even require you to have a degree, if you have relevant experience.
I'd contact the course leader. Don't worry about looking grabby - does it really matter anyway? If you would not otherwise get in - what do you have to lose? If you don't apply, you definitely won't get in!

I have a BA, MA and PhD and the masters was by far the most difficult both in terms of complexity and massive work load. I had a very good 1st and I struggled initially, although fluked a distinction in the end. I am sure I would have had real difficulties if I’d only got a 2:1 let alone a 2:2

@MrsOprah I work in a university - definitely won't be seen as grabby. Just phrase it as you don't want to waste anyone's time in applying if not going to get in etc. Slow times within uni at the minute (well, will be once they've finished marking).

@Seniorcitizen1 I have a 2.2 not through lack of ability but through the fact I liked the pub a lot at university, went back to uni after working for a while (as OP seems to be doing) and easily got a distinction in a STEM subject while working 25 hours a week. OP please don't be put off by the above post, a masters is hard work but the doors it has opened up to me is massive, worth it all!

I wrote a reference for a girl with a very dodgy undergraduate degree (barely scraped a pass in a little known university) who wanted to do a Masters at KCL and she got in on the strength of a combination of extenuating circumstances (both her parents died while she was at university) and really good work experience.

I'm doing a masters as a mature student in a very niche subject at a very highly regarded uni.
I have a lot of industry experience but don't have a degree.
You should definitely apply.

Emphasize your dissertation and work experience. If there are any extenuating circumstances that explain the lower mark in course work make sure you point that out as well. Good luck!

I am sure I would have had real difficulties if I’d only got a 2:1 let alone a 2:2

I got a 2:2 because I enjoyed shagging and drinking too much. I'm doing my masters now and it's a breeze.