Course Search
Course Search
Application Support and Guidance

Document checklist and personal statement

Explore the documents you’ll need to submit and get practical guidance on writing a personal statement that showcases your goals, experience and motivation to study at UWS.

Home » How to apply » Document checklist and Personal Statement

Table of contents

Your application is your opportunity to showcase who you are. When applying to UWS, think of yourself as a unique brand – one that demonstrates your skills, academic achievements, language abilities, work experience and communication skills.

The personal statement is a crucial part of your application that deserves careful attention. Plan to write multiple drafts, refining your message each time until you’ve created a compelling narrative that best represents you.

Before submitting, ensure all your documentation meets UWS requirements by consulting with our admission advisers. Most importantly, maintain authenticity throughout your application – only include information that can be verified, as this forms the foundation of trust between you and the university.

Document checklist

Before you start, ensure that you have digital copies of all the documents required for your application. These documents should be a maximum file size of 2MB. These include:

  • Qualification certificates/transcripts in English
  • English language proficiency test certificates
  • A signed academic reference on headed paper*
  • CV in English
  • Proof of funding (if required)
  • Passport
  • Visa/CAS statement (if held)


* All reference letters, whether academic or professional, must contain the institution/company letterhead, referee’s contact details and signature and be issued within three months of submitting an application.

Required documents for your application

You will need to submit the following documents as part of your application. Please note that additional documentation may be required based on your personal circumstances. All documents should be uploaded as PDF or JPG files with a maximum size of 2MB each:

  • Educational qualification certificates
  • Academic transcripts
  • English language proficiency test certificate
  • Signed academic reference on institutional letterhead*
  • Signed professional reference on company letterhead* (if required)
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Valid Passport
  • Proof of funding (if required)
  • Visa/CAS statement (if held)

    *All reference letters must include:

  • Institution/company letterhead
  • Referee’s complete contact details
  • Referee’s signature
  • Issue date within three months of application submission


Important note:

  • All documents in foreign language must be officially translated by an authorised translator and attached to the original document
  • We recommend preparing digital copies of all documents before starting your application process
  • Keep your original documents safe – you’ll need them for your visa application
  • Processing time may be extended if documents are incomplete or unclear


CAS checklist

CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. The University will apply to the UK government’s UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) for your CAS number, confirming that we have made you an Unconditional offer of a study place and that you have accepted this. UKVI will then issue a CAS number for you. In order to apply for your CAS, you will be required to attend a credibility interview as part of UWS London admission’s procedure. For further information read our CAS frequently asked questions.

To find out more about credibility interview guide please check here.

Personal Statement (PS)

A Personal Statement (PS) is a personal essay that outlines your academic background, career goals and motivations for choosing a specific course at UWS, serving as a crucial document that helps the Admissions team understand why you’re the right fit for our program.

Key Points to Cover in Your Personal Statement:

  • Your choice of UWS and specific campus, including what attracted you to our institution and location.
  • Research into other institutions and courses, demonstrating your informed decision-making process.
  • Specific reasons for choosing your course and how it aligns with your career goals.
  • If available in your home country, explain your motivation for studying in the UK and the unique benefits you seek.
  • For those with study gaps, explain your decision to return to education now.
  • Your future plans after completing the course, including career aspirations.
  • How your work experience (if any) relates to and enhances your chosen course.
  • Any additional relevant information that supports your application.

For detailed guidance on writing your Personal Statement, please refer to our UWS London Guide (check our UWS London Guide)


CAS checklist

Understanding your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

A CAS is a unique number issued by UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) that you’ll need for your student visa application. UWS will request your CAS from UKVI after:

  • You’ve received and accepted an unconditional offer
  • Successfully completed a Pre-CAS credibility interview with TEG admissions team
  • Paid the initial deposit
  • Met all other admission requirements


The Pre-CAS credibility interview is a mandatory part of our admissions process, designed to ensure you meet both university and visa requirements.

For detailed information, please visit:


CAS checklist

1. Tuition fees deposit payment receipt
2. Financial documents with evidence of sufficient funds to pay any outstanding tuition fess as stated on the CAS, and £1,529 for each month of the course (up to 9 months).

If you have dependents you are also required to have living costs of £845 per month for each dependent.

  • Bank statement with sufficient funds for a minimum period of least 28 consecutive days or letter of financial sponsorship (Embassy Sponsorship) or confirmation of an educational loan.
  • Tuberculosis Clearance Certificate (relevant to applicable countries only). Further details can
    be found on the Home Office website.
  • An ATAS certificate, if this is required for your course (only applicable to certain MSc & PhD
    research courses).