Application checklist: documents you need and how to prepare them

Applying for an online degree shouldn't feel complicated. Knowing what you may need in advance can make the process much simpler. 

For an Aston Online application, you’ll typically need proof of your qualifications and identity. Depending on your programme and circumstances, you may also need a CV, personal statement, reference or evidence of English language proficiency. Your Student Recruitment Advisor will confirm exactly what applies to you. 

This checklist explains the documents you may be asked for, how to prepare them, and what happens once your application is underway. 

Your Aston Online application checklist 

Before you apply, gather any documents you already have. You may be asked for: 

• academic certificates and transcripts 

• proof of identity, such as a copy of your passport 

• English language proficiency results, where required 

• an up-to-date CV for certain programmes or experience-based entry 

• a personal statement, where requested 

• an academic or professional reference for master’s applications. 

Not every applicant will need every document. Requirements depend on your chosen programme, qualifications and individual circumstances, so your Student Recruitment Advisor will tell you exactly what you need.

Academic certificates and transcripts

We use your academic documents to check whether you meet the entry requirements for your chosen programme. 

We may ask for copies of qualifications such as your degree certificate and academic transcripts. You can also provide relevant professional qualifications. If you've lost a certificate or transcript, contact the institution that issued it and request a replacement. 

Before sending your documents, check that they are complete and clearly readable.  If you need replacement records, start the process early. 

What if my qualifications are from outside the UK? 

International qualifications can still form part of your Aston Online application. 

If your certificates or transcripts were issued by a non-English-speaking institution, they must be translated into English before you submit them. Aston Online does not accept these documents in other languages, although the translations do not need to be attested.

Proof of English language proficiency

You'll study, learn and take part in discussions in English throughout your programme. If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to show that you meet the relevant English language requirements. 

Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked for a recognised English language test result, such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic. Test results used for the application must have been obtained within the previous two years. 

If you don’t currently have an English language proficiency test score, speak to your Student Recruitment Advisor. Once your application is underway, they can provide access to an internationally accredited online test that you can take from home at no cost.

Your CV

A curriculum vitae (CV) is not required for every Aston Online programme, but you may need one for certain programmes or if you want to be considered for entry based on your professional experience. 

If you are asked to provide one, make it relevant to the programme rather than treating it as a general employment CV. Focus on the experience and qualifications that show you’re ready for your chosen programme. 

Keep your CV current and easy to follow. Check dates, job titles and qualifications before submitting it, and make sure your most relevant experience is easy for the Admissions Team to identify.

Your personal statement

You may also be asked to provide a personal statement of around 250 words. 

This is your opportunity to explain why you want to study the programme, what has motivated your decision, and how studying at Aston University could support your goals. 

Don't worry about sounding overly formal. Focus on being specific. Explain why this particular programme makes sense for you. Relevant academic interests, professional experience, or future ambitions can all help demonstrate your motivation. 

Before submitting it, check that your statement answers three straightforward questions: Why this programme? Why now? What do you hope to gain from it?

Academic or professional references

If you are applying for a master’s programme, you will need one letter of recommendation from someone who can speak about your abilities and character. This can be either an academic or professional reference. 

Choose someone who knows your work well enough to provide a meaningful recommendation. It can also help to contact them early, so they have enough time to prepare the reference without holding up your application. 

What happens after you start your Aston Online application? 

Once you have chosen your programme, check its specific entry requirements before completing the online application form. These requirements can include academic qualifications, relevant work experience and English language proficiency. 

You will then be assigned a dedicated Student Recruitment Advisor. They will speak with you about your academic and professional background, your reasons for studying the programme, and the documents you need to provide. Rather than having to work out the process alone, you will have someone who can advise you based on your individual application. 

Once your documents and details are complete, the Admissions Team aims to review applications within two to three working days. Timing can vary depending on the time of year and whether any information is outstanding, which is why preparing your documents carefully can help avoid unnecessary delays. 

Conditional and unconditional offers explained 

After your application has been reviewed, you may receive either a conditional or unconditional offer. 

A conditional offer means there is still something Aston Online needs before your application can be completed. This could include an academic certificate or transcript, a professional or academic reference, or your English language test results. Once the outstanding requirements have been met, you can receive an unconditional offer. 

An unconditional offer means you have met the entry requirements and there is nothing further you need to provide to complete your application. 

How to prepare your application before you submit 

A little preparation can save time later. Check the entry requirements on your programme page first, then gather the documents you already have and identify anything you need to request from a university, employer, referee or awarding body. 

Make sure your documents are current and readable, and check that the information across your CV, qualifications and application is consistent. If you are unsure whether a document is required, ask your Student Recruitment Advisor rather than delaying your application while you try to work it out yourself. 

We generally recommend beginning the application process as early as possible before your preferred intake. This gives your Advisor time to review your application, identify anything that is missing and provide individual feedback where necessary. 

Ready to apply to Aston Online? 

Once you have received an unconditional offer, you can follow the instructions in your offer letter to formally accept your place. Your Student Recruitment Advisor will continue to support you before your programme begins, including helping you prepare for funding, onboarding and access to the Aston Online Digital Campus. 

A strong application does not need to be complicated. Start with the requirements for your chosen programme, prepare the documents that apply to you, and ask us when you are unsure. From your first application to preparing for your first module, our team will be there to help you understand what comes next. 

Find the Aston Online programme that matches your goals and check its entry requirements. When you’re ready, start your application and our Student Recruitment team will guide you through the next steps.