Master’s Application Deadlines in the UK & Europe (2025-2026)

Applying for a master’s degree in the UK and Europe requires careful planning, especially with application deadlines varying across institutions. This guide highlights key masters application deadlines for the 2025-2026 admissions cycle, focusing on top programs in finance, economics, management, and marketing. We also provide expert advice to help you maximize your chances of admission.

Master’s Application Deadlines for Top Programs

Finance

• LSE – MSc Finance (Rolling admissions, early application recommended)

• University of Oxford – MSc Financial Economics (December 2025 - January 2026 deadline)

• HEC Paris – MSc International Finance (Rounds closing between December 2025 - April 2026)

• Bocconi University – MSc Finance (Rolling admissions with final deadlines in May 2026)

Economics

• LSE – MSc Economics (Rolling admissions, early submission encouraged)

• University of Cambridge – MPhil in Economics (December 2025 - January 2026 deadline)

• Tilburg University – MSc Economics (Application rounds open Fall 2025)

• ETH Zurich – MSc Quantitative Economics and Finance (Deadline in March 2026)

Management

• London Business School – Masters in Management (MiM) (Rolling deadlines, early applications preferred)

• HEC Paris – Masters in Management (MiM) (Multiple rounds, final deadline in April 2026)

• University of St. Gallen – MA Strategy and International Management (Deadline around March 2026)

• ESSEC Business School – MSc in Strategy & Management of International Business (Rounds closing between Fall 2025 and Spring 2026)

Marketing

• Imperial College London – MSc Strategic Marketing (Rolling admissions, apply early)

• University of Edinburgh – MSc Marketing (Application deadline likely January 2026)

• ESCP Business School – MSc Marketing & Creativity (Multiple rounds, final deadline Spring 2026)

• Bocconi University – MSc Marketing Management (Final deadline expected in May 2026)

UK Master’s Application Deadlines

Many UK universities operate on rolling admissions, meaning early applications stand a better chance. Here are key masters applications deadlines:

• Oxford & Cambridge: Deadlines in December 2025 - January 2026.

• LSE, UCL, Warwick: Rolling admissions; applying early is advisable.

• UCAS Postgraduate: Some UK universities accept applications through UCAS Postgraduate.

European Master’s Application Deadlines

• HEC Paris, ESSEC, ESCP, Bocconi: Applications open Fall 2025, with rounds closing between December 2025 - April 2026.

• University of St. Gallen: Deadline around March 2026.

• Rotterdam School of Management: Rolling admissions, final deadline in May 2026.

Which Programs Require GMAT/GRE?

Certain master’s programs require GMAT or GRE scores as part of the application. Here are some key ones:

• London Business School – Masters in Management (MiM): GMAT or GRE required.

• HEC Paris – MSc International Finance: GMAT or GRE recommended but not mandatory.

• INSEAD – Masters in Management: GMAT or GRE required.

• Bocconi University – MSc Finance: GMAT or GRE required.

• LSE – Some finance and economics programs: GMAT/GRE may be required depending on prior qualifications.

For more details, visit UCAS Postgraduate and individual university admissions pages.

The Secret Sauce for Admissions Success

As founder of Leadearly, and an award winning Admissions Consultant, I have helped hundreds of applicants secure places at top universities across the UK and Europe with a 98% success rate. I care deeply about the success of each applicant I work with, and hence work with them 1-1 myself on the a-z of the Masters Application Process, even helping them secure internships and job placements where neccessary to reach their career goals. My main super power is being able to find the genuis in every applicant and to help them connect the dots between their education, work experience and desired future into a coherant narrative, in a way that ticks all the boxes of what leading universities are looking for. I am a final round interviewer for INSEAD business school, so I understand and offer the perspective of the Admissions Committee. I also have 20+ years experience in industry, having worked in investment banking, brand management, healthcare, retail and education at leading companies such as Bank of America, Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson, which helps me offer an intellectual maturity grounded in practical life experieces that universities are seeking in personal statements and admissions essays.

Candidates who work with an admissions consultants have a distinct advantage over those who don't; elite athletes would never be able to achieve the same success without their coaches, nutritionists and trainers. Having a partner invested in your admission success can make the difference between getting into a second tier university or a top tier one, or getting into your first choice of university. Considering the high cost of masters programs, would you like to leave it to chance?

Final Thoughts

Applying for a master’s degree in the UK and Europe is a competitive process, but strategic planning, storyboarding, and insights from decades of real world experience can give you an edge. Staying ahead of masters application deadlines and crafting a compelling application will significantly enhance your chances of securing a place at a top university.

Need expert guidance on your master's application? Contact Leadearly for a complimentary 1-1 consultation to receive tailored advice to your specific needs.