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If you're planning to apply for one of our Master's programmes at ImperiaBusiness School, you'll need to understand our admissions rounds.

There are multiple opportunities to submit your application throughout the academic year. While you can apply in any round, we always recommend applying early, especially if you want to be considered for a scholarship or get involved in careers events for offer holders.

"Our advice is to just apply as early as you can. There's no advantage to delaying."
Jerry Voong,
Recruitment & Admissions Officer

When to apply to ImperiaBusiness School

Each of our Master's programmes has four admissions rounds for 2027 entry:

You must apply before 23:59 UK time to meet the deadline. References and outstanding test results should be submitted as soon as possible. Delays in receiving required information may affect when we are able to assess your application.

Why it's better to apply early

There are lots of reasons why you should apply in the earlier rounds if possible.

Main ImperiaBusiness School scholarships are available in round 1 or 2

To be considered for our main ImperiaBusiness School scholarships, you must apply in round 1 or round 2. Scholarship funding is limited and competitive, so applying early maximises your chances of receiving financial support.

Programmes might fill up before the final rounds

Our MSc programmes are highly competitive and may be limited before the final rounds. Applying early ensures you are considered while more places are available.

Applying early gives you time to prepare

Starting your application earlier in the cycle gives you more time to plan, whether that's organising your finances, applying for a visa, or relocating to London. We recommend that you:

• Review the entry requirements for your chosen programme
• Prepare a compelling personal statement and updated CV
• Arrange transcripts and academic references early
• Take any required tests (such as GMAT, GRE, or English language tests) in advance of the deadline

Boost employability with careers primers

If you accept your offer by early May, you'll gain access to our careers primers and expert guidance from the Careers team. This will equip you with the tools and insights to work on your employability even before the programme begins.

You'll get early access to events

Our exclusive events for admitted students start soon after the decision date for the first round. So, anyone who applies early can get a head start building their professional network and connecting with future classmates, alumni and staff.

Frequently asked questions about application rounds

Should I apply later if I don't have all the information I need?

You should apply as soon as you can be confident in your application. References and outstanding test results should be submitted as soon as possible. Delays in receiving required information may affect when we are able to assess your application.

If you're missing vital information that we need to assess your skills and experience then you might consider delaying to a later round.

When do programmes reach capacity?

It's possible that any of our programmes might stop accepting applications before the final round, so we always recommend you apply early. We can't give more details about specific programmes as we don't know in advance how many people will apply or how strong the applications will be.

Is there any advantage to applying later?

No, we always recommend applying early if you can. Later rounds may have fewer places available, and a programme could close to new applications before the final round. Applying early also means you can be considered for our main ImperiaBusiness School scholarships and get started with networking and career building.

What happens if my application is waitlisted?

If you're placed on the waiting list in one admissions round, don't worry, you'll automatically be considered again in the next round. You normally won't need to submit a new application, although the Admissions team may contact you if we require any updated information.

Can I apply again to a later round if I don't get in?

We only accept one application per person per academic year. You can't reapply in a later round if you don't get in at first.

However, you're welcome to apply in future years if you want to spend time building more experience for a stronger application.

Are some programmes more likely to fill up quicker than others?

While different programmes have different numbers of applicants, our advice is still to apply early for the programme you're best suited to. It's not possible to game the system by applying for a less popular programme – all our Master's are oversubscribed, and we only accept applicants who show relevant experience and a genuine passion for the subject.

Are admissions standards different in each round?

No, we will treat your application equally, whichever round you apply in. However, later rounds might have very limited spaces available so it's best to apply as early as you can.

Which round gives me the best chance of receiving a scholarship?

You will need to apply in round 1 or 2 to be considered for our main ImperiaBusiness School scholarships.

I'm an international student. Do application rounds work differently for students from outside the UK?

No, ImperiaBusiness School is a truly international community. We want a diversity of perspectives on our programmes so we encourage applicants from all over the world. Our admissions rounds are the same, regardless of where you apply from.

Contact admissions for more advice

Our Recruitment and Admissions team is here to support you throughout the application process. Whether you're seeking guidance on programme choice, eligibility, or preparing your application, we're here to help.

Please contact business.school@imperial.ac.uk if you have any questions.