Programme application (PA)
The following information applies to programmes labelled PA, as these require an application form to be completed.
How do I apply?
The quickest and easiest way to apply to these programmes is using the online application facility. Once you have found the programme that is right for you, you will need to follow these steps:
- Find out if you meet the entry requirements for your programme of study. You will be able to check this by looking at the relevant programme entry.
- Carefully check your chosen programme entry for details of any special requirements or supplementary information required. You will be able to upload electronic copies of supplementary information to your application.
- Click on the link in the ‘Submit your application’ section of the programme details in the online listings and complete your application:
- You will find notes and instructions throughout our online form to help you complete the process.
- You will be able to save and return to your application form before submitting it, so don’t worry if you can’t complete it all at once.
- At the end of the process you will receive a confirmation of your application and information on the next stage.
- If you do not wish to apply online, you can contact the My Birkbeck helpdesk for a paper form.
When should I apply?
We recommend that you apply as early as possible, as there are a limited number of places on some programmes. If you are offered a place we recommend that you enrol as soon as possible as your place cannot be secured until you have fully enrolled.
What happens once I apply?
Once you have submitted your application and it is received by the Registry, your application is normally processed as follows:
- The Registry will check that the form is complete and carry out an initial assessment before forwarding it on to the relevant department for their consideration.
- The Registry or department may contact you for further information if required.
- Once the department has received all the information required, your application will be considered and you will be contacted with their decision. You may be invited to attend a formal interview.
- Offers are made by admissions tutors, subject to the Registry’s final check of your eligibility. If you are offered a place on a programme, you will receive a provisional offer letter from the department that teaches and administers your programme, followed by a formal letter (via email) outlining the offer from the Registry, to which you will be invited to respond. If you accept the offer, you will then need to enrol and make arrangements to pay your fees. We recommend you respond to the formal offer letter and enrol as soon as possible to ensure you secure your place.
How long does the application process normally take?
The application process, from submitting your application, and receiving the formal offer letter from the Registry, normally takes about four weeks. However, this can vary depending on the programme being applied for, and/or if there are delays in the College receiving supporting documents, such as transcripts and certificates.
Once you accept the offer of a place, you will receive formal instructions for enrolment and fee payment from the Registry. We start sending instructions to new students from May/June onwards and enrolment for all programmes is online. If you are unable to enrol online, you will need to contact the My Birkbeck helpdesk to make alternative arrangements.
Please note that you will not be issued with your student details – including ID card and IT log-in details which give you access to College facilities – until satisfactory arrangements are made for fee payment.
We recommend that you enrol as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of places on some programmes and your place cannot be reserved until you are enrolled.
Further Information
If you have any questions about the programme you should contact the relevant subject staff; you can find their contact details with each programme entry.
If you have any questions about the application process please contact the My Birkbeck helpdesk.


