Authored by Priyal (India), MSc Business Analytics (Online)
Pursuing admission to Imperial is presumably a thought-out choice, not a spontaneous one, and it can be daunting knowing you have a singular opportunity. I experienced the same feeling when I applied for my MSc in Business Analytics, so here’s a helpful guide on the application procedure and maximizing your experience.
Selecting Your Master’s Program
This is a significant choice, particularly for Imperial Business School, where you are permitted to apply to only one program per cycle. Reflect on what you wish to investigate beyond your prior studies and how the program correlates with your interests and objectives. I selected Imperial due to its adaptable course framework, providing modules in logistics, supply chain analytics, and leadership in analytics that aligned with my interests and future goals.
During my undergraduate education, my aspiration was to become a business intelligence analyst, but I was open to various industries. Attending Imperial allowed me to delve into different sectors, ultimately guiding me towards FMCG analytics. This exploration was enlightening and was as beneficial as the technical skills I acquired.
Master’s Program Admission Criteria
Admission criteria can appear daunting, especially considering Imperial’s esteemed reputation. Evaluate your background against the program requirements. I discovered that I satisfied most prerequisites through my undergraduate education. Master’s programs don’t anticipate mastery; they seek to understand how you will utilize and enhance your skills. Grasping the entry criteria can make them seem more attainable.
Much of my anxiety stemmed from misconceptions, not actual requirements. Thoroughly examining the program page and aligning your experiences may reveal that you are more ready than you realize.
English Language Proficiency Standards
International applicants should be aware of the English language proficiency standards. You may be required to undertake assessments such as IELTS, contingent on where you completed your prior degree. I did not require additional testing as I studied in the UK. If necessary, consult Imperial’s website for acceptable tests and qualifications. Imperial also presents Pre-sessional courses to enhance your academic English.
Drafting Your Postgraduate Personal Statement
“Your uniqueness, curiosity, and eagerness to learn provide a competitive advantage in your personal statement, so don’t overly fixate on making your responses flawless!”
Many individuals attempt to portray their experiences flawlessly, which can come across as disingenuous. Leverage your experiences to your benefit. I dedicated significant time to my personal statement, contemplating my career path, motivations for selecting Imperial, and linking past endeavors to future aims.
Documenting everything from my undergraduate experiences, including projects and extracurricular activities, was beneficial. I associated specific experiences with each query rather than making broad statements. Being genuine and expressive is essential, but steer clear of excessively detailed answers. Revising and polishing my statement over time rendered my responses more authentic. Having someone critique your statement can offer valuable perspectives.
Your uniqueness and eagerness to learn are vital, so refrain from stressing about perfection!
Securing References for Your Application
Select referees thoughtfully based on their familiarity with you and your work. I selected one referee based on genuine interest and another based on academic guidance. One was my media and AI instructor, while the other taught me data visualization. This combination showcased both my passion and academic abilities. Communicate with your referees prior to naming them in your application to ensure they understand your aspirations and the program specifics.
Imperial generally provides referees with a private link for submitting references, though email submissions are acceptable. Verify referee requirements and ensure they utilize a professional email and are aware of the submission timeline. Allow ample time for referees to provide their input to avoid last-minute stress.