Degree needed when applying for postgrad?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the requirements for applying to postgraduate studies in the US, particularly focusing on whether a degree must be completed prior to application. It also touches on considerations for choosing between studying in the US and the UK, including aspects of funding and recommendations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of applying for postgraduate studies in the US without having completed their degree, noting they will be a few classes short by the application deadline.
  • Another participant asserts that it is generally acceptable to apply for graduate programs without a completed degree, as admissions are often conditional on finishing the degree by a specified date.
  • A participant expresses interest in the differences between pursuing postgraduate studies in the US versus the UK, mentioning the potential advantages of EU membership for Greek students in the UK.
  • Another participant highlights the importance of their current professor's connections to American universities and the perceived ease of obtaining grants in the US compared to the UK.
  • There is a request for further information regarding grants available in both the UK and the US, indicating a desire for comparative insights.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the advantages of studying in the US versus the UK, particularly regarding funding opportunities and application requirements. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best choice for postgraduate studies.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the implications of conditional admissions or the specific requirements of different universities, which may vary. There is also a lack of consensus on the comparative ease of obtaining grants in the US versus the UK.

manoskats
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Hello,
I study physics in Greece and I want to apply for postgrad studies in the US.Most universities' deadline for applying is 1/1,but I won't have my degree by then,I will still be 2 or 3 classes away(not "important" ones though).And I will definitely have passed them by February-March.
Can I still apply?
 
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You do not need to have completed your degree to apply for graduate work. Most offers of admission are based on work you have completed up until the point of application and are conditional on you successfully convocating by a certain date (usually within a few months of starting the graduate program).
 
Thank you Choppy!
 
manoskats said:
Hello,
I study physics in Greece and I want to apply for postgrad studies in the US.

Why the US in particular? I've met many Greek students in the UK, and they seem to have a good time. May be easier to get entrance & grants because of EU membership. Cheap flights to get home for Easter :-)

I know someone who did both, an MSc in the UK and then further postgrad work in the US.
 
Well,one of the most important reasons is that the professor I am working under has 'strong ties' with America.My work with him along with a good letter of recommendation should help me a lot getting accepted in a good university,possibly with an assistantship.
Grants definitely matter a lot,but from what I've heard it is easier to get them in America.That was another reason for choosing the US actually.
You are the first to tell me that they might be easier to get in the UK..Oh well,I'll look more into it.In the meantime,any input on the subject of grants (UK vs US) would be much appreciated!
Thanks!
 

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