While many are still discussing the admission and rejection outcomes for 22 Fall, the battle song for 23 Fall has quietly begun.
For prospective 23 Fall students, if you still think you have plenty of time to finalize your program choice, select a target country, prepare for the GRE, or enhance your résumé, you are sorely mistaken!
As early as mid-June, the National University of Singapore announced the opening of its early admissions round. By the end of June, CUHK Business School also jumped the gun, not only opening applications two months earlier than usual but also changing the admission model and adjusting program offerings.
CUHK Business School Applications Open Two Months Earlier
The university's website shows that CUHK Business School's master's programs are now accepting applications. This year, they will use a rolling admission system and have set up an early admission round for outstanding applicants, allowing them to receive an offer a year before the program starts.
Earlier Timeline with Scholarships
In previous years, CUHK Business School typically opened applications around September. This year, applications opened in June—almost two months earlier!
Moreover, the school is offering scholarships of up to 50% of tuition fees to outstanding students who receive early admission offers.
Changes in Admission Rounds
It is important to note that this year's admission rounds have also changed significantly. Previously, CUHK Business School usually had 3 to 5 admission rounds; while earlier applications were favoured, each round still granted a certain number of admissions.
This year, the entire admission process is divided into two rounds: Round 1 is the so-called "early admission round," and Round 2 is the regular round. The "rolling admission" system means that if enrolment targets are met early, the application channel may close ahead of schedule.
ITM Program Changed to Part-Time Only
In addition, CUHK has adjusted its Information and Technology Management program, discontinuing the full-time mode and offering only part-time courses.
The full-time mode will be available in a new program, MSc in Information Science and Technology Management, which is still pending university approval and is expected to be announced around October.
For most students planning full-time study, they can only wait for the university's notification about the new program. Those considering this field are advised to keep a record to avoid forgetting later.
Multiple UK Universities Open Online Applications
In fact, early admission plans at HKU, CUHK, and NUS are designed to snap up the very best students for the new application season.
What's surprising is that the race for talent is getting fiercer each year. This year, not only "early rounds" but also the first round of UK online applications have already opened.
University of Manchester
Unexpectedly, among the UK Top 10, Manchester was the first to start. Currently, the 23 Fall online application portal for Manchester is already open!
By entering the university's application system, you can browse program options, select your target program, and fill in and submit your application information.
However, it is worth noting that although Manchester's online system is open, this does not mean submitted applications will be reviewed immediately or that early offers will be issued.
Currently, the program pages on the university's site indicate that applications for 2023 entry will officially open after October. That means the university will only begin reviewing applications from October.
University of Nottingham
Most of Nottingham's taught and research master's programs for the 2023/24 academic year are now open, but the popular Business School programs are not yet available.
Cardiff University
Cardiff University's application system is now fully open. 23 Fall applicants can start submitting from 26 September this year.
Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary University of London's website states that applicants for September 2023 entry can apply from 18 July for the following programs (currently only for Chinese applicants):
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MSc Management
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MSc Marketing
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MSc Accounting and Finance
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MSc Banking and Finance
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MSc Corporate Finance
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MSc Wealth Management
Plan Early, Apply Early, Get Your Offer Early
Although it seems impossible to escape the frenzy, you can choose not to be left behind. Boost your competitiveness and take the initiative!
Maintain a Strong GPA
As the "hard currency" of graduate applications, GPA is always the first key to opening the door to your dream school. Especially for destinations like the UK and Hong Kong that place heavy emphasis on academic performance, without a strong GPA, applying for a master's program will be extremely difficult.
Submit GRE/GMAT Scores
Although some programs do not mandate GRE scores, that does not mean you shouldn't submit them.
An excellent GRE/GMAT score can still demonstrate your comprehension and learning ability to the admissions committee. Some programs even explicitly state that "a good GRE/GMAT score can significantly increase your chances of admission."
Enrich Your Background and Experiences
Regardless of your intended field, relevant internship or research experience is an indispensable component in the eyes of admissions officers.
Strong extracurriculars can add the icing on the cake and greatly enhance your application competitiveness.
High-Quality Personal Statement
The personal statement can be seen as the second key to your dream school. Admissions officers can discern your communication skills, logical thinking, and genuine interest in the program from a well-written statement.
A well-crafted personal statement is truly crucial for your application.
Start Early and Plan Ahead
The application process is complex, so early planning and preparation can help you avoid unnecessary mistakes and secure an offer smoothly.
