This blog will aid you as a step-by-step guide when looking into universities for the Masters's program of actuarial science in the UK.
Step 1: Doing your research
This is the most crucial step. Doing your research on Universities and their specific programs is unavoidable and simply cannot be obtained through a blog.
So give yourself enough time for the research and start early. It would be best to start at least 12 months earlier than the course start date and no later than 6 months.
Your research should focus on the following:-
The reputation of the university for actuarial studies
Program details, course length( generally 12-24months long), modules, and exemptions provided by the university
Career support provided by them
Location of the university.
Step 2: Choosing the right program and University for yourself.
After having done your research you now have a fair idea of how many universities provide actuarial science courses and what kind of reputation they hold in the said field.
To shortlist Universities start by making a list according to categories like University ranking, your preferred course type, and location of the University.
Few universities that offer Masters (Actuarial Science) Program in the UK:-
1.Bayes Business School (Formerly Cass Business School)
2.Heriot-Watt University
3.University of Kent
4.University of Leicester
5.University of Southhampton
6.University of Manchester
Types of programs available:-
If you haven't cleared core principles exams ( CB1-2, CS1-2, CM1-2)-
MSc Actuarial Science
MSc Actuarial Science and Business Analytics
MSc Actuarial Science with Data Analytics
MSc Actuarial Science with Industry Placement
If you have cleared certain core principles and wish to gain more exemptions -
MSc Actuarial Management Courses
( to apply for this program, Universities ask for exam passes of at least 4 core principles from IFOA in the new 2019 curriculum, this should include CM1 and CS1 paper).
According to your abilities and requirements choose the right course and University. If your goal is to simply gain exemptions choose a traditional course like MSc Actuarial Science or for higher papers MSc Actuarial Management.
If you wish to upskill yourself a program that integrates courses like business analytics and data analytics would be best suited for you.
Step 3: Collecting your documents
After shortlisting universities, make a list of all documents you would need to apply.
These will generally include -
Your high school mark sheets
SOP: A statement of purpose: usually 500-600 words
English Language Requirements: English proficiency test for international students
A CV
LOR: Letter of Recommendation- usually 2
Step 4: Applying
For the September intake, applications open around November of last year. All colleges accept online applications now. The link to apply is on their respective website. An account is created wherein all your documents can be uploaded.
The final step is waiting. Universities take around 3-4 weeks to decide on your application, which could be longer depending on when you apply.
Pro-Tip:
( This is NOT a sponsored post)
Pro-tip is for all the international students looking to apply. After having shortlisted your universities. I would suggest consulting agencies like British Council or IDP Education. They don't charge anything and guide you throughout till your visa process is completed. It will be of immense help and keep you on track with this long process of applying and acceptance to Universities.