Can you get a second masters in the UK? The answer is yes. If you are not satisfied with your first master’s degree, you can apply for a second master’s programme. For example, if you have done an MBA, you can still apply for an MSc in International Business or Digital Marketing.
Thinking about another Master’s degree, PhD, or DBA in the UK? Want to stay on your student visa? Our guide explains how to apply for the programme and extend your visa in simple steps.
Is a Second Masters Degree in the UK Worth it?
There are many different Master’s degrees for studying in the UK, so some people decide to do more than one. This can help you learn more about different things and become an expert in more than one area.
Having more than one degree gives you special skills and knowledge while also giving you an advantage that others may not have. Imagine you have a Master’s degree in both studying the environment (Environmental Science) and how money works (Economics). This would be extremely strong if you wanted a job fixing environmental problems, such as working in Environmental Policy. You’d understand both the environment and how to pay for fixing it, which is really what companies are looking for!
Check Your Eligibility!
Who is Eligible for a Second Masters in the UK?
Many students want to know if they are eligible for a second master’s degree in the UK. Here are the eligibility criteria for a UK second masters.
- The UK allows a second masters especially if your new degree is in a similar field but not exactly the same, or if you weren’t happy with your first one. For instance, if you got a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), you could do a Master’s of Science (MSc) in International Business.
- Just make sure you finish your first master’s degree. Universities will ask for proof that you completed your first masters before accepting you for another one.
- If you did your bachelor’s and first master’s in the UK, there’s a limit on how long you can stay as a student. Check this “Cap limit” before applying for another master’s degree.
When to Apply for a Second Masters in the UK?
Don’t wait until the last minute! If you want to pursue a second master’s degree in the UK while your current visa is still valid, you need to apply for a visa extension before it expires. Overstaying your visa is illegal and could hurt your chances of getting a new one. Start the application process early to ensure you have enough time to get accepted into your programme before your visa runs out. The good news is that once you apply for a UK student visa extension, you can legally stay in the UK until a decision is made on your application.
What is the Time Limit for a Second Masters in the UK?
There’s a maximum amount of time you can spend studying in the UK with a student visa. Many students want to know what the time limit is if they apply for a second Masters in the UK. So, let’s discuss it.
- If you did a 4 or 5 year undergraduate degree, you have 6 years total for all your studies (including any future Master’s).
- Otherwise, you generally have 5 years and 11 months to finish your entire degree (including undergraduate and Master’s).
- There’s no set limit on how long these research degrees can take.
- Some programmes are exempt from the time limit, like: Architecture, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, and Science; conversion courses or specialist law courses after a UK degree, and programmes at a music or drama school (Conservatoire).
Even if you take an exempt course, that time still counts towards the overall limit for non-exempt programmes. Basically, there’s a limit on how long you can be a student in the UK with a visa, but there are some exceptions.
Can You Get a Scholarship for a Second Masters in the UK?
Paying for a second master’s degree can be trickier than the first. In the UK, government loans for postgraduate studies aren’t available if you already have a Master’s (or something similar).
Don’t worry, though! There are still ways to find money. You can look for scholarships, grants, or other financial help from charities, or even see if your employer might be willing to sponsor you. Just remember to check the details carefully before applying, as some might not be available for people with existing Master’s degrees.
Final words
There is no reason why you cannot get a second masters degree in the UK if you already have one. In fact, it is easier to get a second masters in the UK if your new degree is in the similar field of your previous education. If you have any questions about pursuing a second masters in the UK, you can always contact AIMS Education.
FAQ
Can international students complete two masters degrees in the UK?
Ans: The UK allows a second masters especially if your new degree is in a similar field but not exactly the same, or if you weren’t happy with your first one.
Can I get PSW twice in the UK?
Ans: You only get one shot at the Post-study Work Visa after you graduate. It’s a special chance to work in the country after completing your studies, so make sure you apply the right way!
Can I apply for a second master’s degree in the UK?
Ans: If you want to apply for a second masters within the UK you have to apply before your current visa expires.
Is it normal to get a second Masters?
Ans: You can definitely get two master’s degrees! This can be good for a few reasons. Firstly, you can learn about two different things you’re interested in. Secondly, companies might be more likely to hire you for a job with more responsibility and better pay if you have two degrees.
How many years visa does the UK give for masters students?
Ans: After you graduate, you can get a visa to stay and work in the country. This visa usually lasts for 2 years. But if you have a PhD, like a doctor in your field of study, then the visa lasts for 3 whole years! This gives you more time to find a job after you finish your studies.
