What are WBS looking for in an MSc application?

Current Master’s students, Oguzhan Aydogmus and Utsav Agarwal, reflect on the application process and share tips to help you succeed.

Oguzhan: WBS stood out to me for its global reputation, the structure of the MSc Finance course, and the opportunity to learn from world-class faculty. What really helped my application stand out was doing in-depth research into the course and highlighting how specific modules aligned with my interests.

One of my biggest lessons was the importance of starting early. When you give yourself plenty of time, you can make sure your essays and cover letters reflect your best qualities and ideas. It also means less stress and more room to get feedback from people you trust, like professors or friends.

Starting your WBS application

Utsav: Start by understanding what the admissions team is really looking for—clarity, relevance, and motivation. Don’t leave things until the last minute. A rushed application never reflects your true potential.

Begin with a simple introduction—who you are and why you’re applying. Then talk about your academic background and how it links to the program. Follow this with your professional experiences and achievements. End with specific reasons why Warwick appeals to you—mentioning modules, professors, or the culture—and close by thanking the reader for their time.

Oguzhan: I found that thoroughly researching the MSc program helped me a lot. Understanding the specific modules, the professors teaching them, and any extra opportunities at Warwick allowed me to show exactly why I was excited about this particular program. Mentioning these details also shows genuine enthusiasm, which can make your application stand out.

Showcase experiences that are clearly linked to the program. For example, I highlighted my internships, academic projects, and extracurricular activities related to finance. Connecting these to what I’d study at WBS made my case more compelling.

Mistakes to avoid when writing an MSc application

Utsav: Talk openly about your career ambitions and how WBS is the right fit to help you get there. Make sure your story is cohesive—from your education to your career goals. Authenticity matters.

Don’t use vague or generic language. Avoid copying templates or repeating your CV. Instead, provide specific examples that show your passion and readiness. And always check your spelling and grammar—attention to detail speaks volumes.

Oguzhan: Don’t exaggerate or try to sound like someone you’re not. Admissions teams read a lot of applications and can tell when something isn’t genuine. Be clear, honest, and focused.

It’s all about being disciplined with your time. Starting early gave me the space to plan my application carefully, while still managing other commitments. I treated it like a project with milestones and regular check-ins with people who could give me constructive feedback.

Cover letter advice for university application

Utsav: Think of your application as a reflection of your journey and potential. Take your time, be honest, and make every word count. And don’t forget to enjoy the process—this is the beginning of an exciting chapter.

Oguzhan: Be yourself. Share your real story and motivation. That authenticity makes your application more personal and memorable.