We understand that the application process can be an anxious time. Please read carefully the information in this section and follow the instructions given; this will help to ensure that everything runs quickly and smoothly. You will be able to track the progress of your application |online.
You must apply early, as competition for programmes at LSE is intense. Applications open on 10 October 2011 for entry to programmes in 2012/13.
In addition to the minimum entry requirements some programmes require the submission of additional test scores. See programme entries |for details. Programmes administered jointly by LSE and other institutions may have specific requirements; please consult individual programme entries. All documents are treated as confidential and are non-returnable.
Please note: LSE expects all applicants to complete their application materials without the use of paid agents, credentials services, or other paid professional assistance. The use of such services may lead to the rejection of application materials, the revocation of an admissions offer, cancellation of admission, or involuntary withdrawal from the University.
You may apply online| or by post. We strongly encourage you to apply online to avoid delays occurring in the postal system. The application assessment fee is also reduced for applications submitted online (£50 for online, £75 for a paper application).
Online application
Please read our guide to completing the online application| before you apply. You may wish to print the guide and have it by you as you complete the form, although full instructions are given with the online form |as well. You do not need to complete the form at one sitting; you can return to your partially completed application by logging in to the system using the email address and password you create at the start of the process.
We also strongly encourage you to upload your supporting documents with your online application. You can scan and upload transcripts in Step 5 and request references to be submitted online in Step 3. Further additional items can be sent online via the How do I forms| after your online application has been processed.
Postal application
You may also apply by post. You can find PDF versions of the application form here. Applying by post costs more than online, and may be subject to postal delays. Please read our guide to completing the paper application| before you apply by post.
You can download all our application forms as PDFs.
Every application, whether received online or by post, must be accompanied by supporting documents. These can be uploaded and added to your online application or sent to us using the appropriate online form| or by post (see Getting in touch|).
Supporting documents
All applications, whether received online or by post, must be accompanied by supporting documents. Some of these are required by all applicants, others are only needed for specific programmes. Details of specific requirements are given on the programme pages|.
Please consult our guide to supporting documents| for full information about what you will need.
Duplicate forms
Do not submit more than one application form. If you are applying via a British Council Office, eg, as a Chevening Scholar, do not send a separate application to the School.
Likewise, if you are applying online, do not send a separate postal application to the School, and do not submit more than one form online.
You may only apply for two programmes, which will be considered sequentially in the order of preference. If you send a second form with further choices, this will delay your application. If you are made an offer for your first choice, your second choice will not be considered unless you specifically request it. If you are unsuccessful for both choices, then you may apply for additional choices using the appropriate 'How do I...? form. You should NOT submit a new application form.
It is not possible to hold more than one offer of a place at LSE.
Joint programmes
LSE has developed a number of programmes which are administered jointly with other institutions such as Peking University in China and University of Southern California in the USA. Any additional requirements for these programmes will be listed on their individual programme pages. Your application will be considered by selectors from both institutions, and this means that it may take much longer for a decision to be made on these programmes than on the single centre programmes. We will advise you of the decision as soon as possible.