Semester dates and deadlines
Applications for the MA programmes are accepted throughout the year. However, it is strongly recommended to apply as early as possible as class sizes are limited. We recommend applying by 15 July at latest for a start in the winter semester and by 15 January for a start in the summer semester.
For the winter semester 2024/25 with a start in summer/autumn 2024 (two start dates are offered for first-year students, one in June and one in October), we recommend submitting application documents by 15 July, 2024 (15 August for late admissions).
Entry requirements
The following is required for application:
- First degree (bachelor's, master's, magister, diplom or equivalent)
- For the regular degree programme (4 semesters): bachelor's degree amounting to at least 180 ECTS
- For the fast-track programme (3 semesters): bachelor's degree with at least 210 ECTS OR at least one year of professional experience in a position of responsibility after graduation
- For admission to the programme, applicants must demonstrate a level of English that allows them to study in this language (B2 level of CEFR and IELTS 6.0 or equivalent level in other tests)
- Participation in a detailed introductory interview
Application process
- An online application form must be submitted. After submitting the online application, applicants will receive an email from the ICD stating the application reference code and explaining the next steps in the application process. Please do not send in application documents until you have received this email; the application fee is also not due until you have received this confirmation.
- All supporting documents must be received by the ICD (see list of required documents below).
- The application fee of €70 must be received by the ICD (payment options will be communicated by email)
Required documents
The following documents must be submitted as part of the application process:
- Official degree certificate and transcript: original documents or certified copies of the official degree certificate and transcript from the university that awarded the degree (and the graduate degree, if applicable). If the document was issued in a language other than English or German, a certified translation into either language must be provided. Current students can apply and participate in the application process by submitting a confirmation of their current studies and transcripts.
- Printouts - for official admission, you must submit either the original documents or the certified copies. You can send scans in advance and bring the printouts of the documents with you when you arrive in Berlin before the course starts.
- Notarised copies - the copies of the above documents must be certified by a notary, embassy or equivalent.
- Copy of passport and/or identity card: A scanned copy of the page with the passport photo and/or identity card should be sent to the ICD. The information in your passport should be clearly legible.
- Letter of motivation: a personal statement of at least 1, maximum 2 pages (A4). 2 pages (A4) in which you explain your reasons for participating in the MA program.
- Curriculum Vitae: This should include information about your academic background (institutions attended, courses studied), your professional experience (if any), interests, any awards or scholarships and your full contact details. The CV should be no longer than 2 A4 pages.
- Proof of language skills: Applicants whose native language is not English must provide a certificate of language proficiency. If you have previously studied in English for at least one semester or worked in an English-speaking country for at least one year, a certificate proving this is sufficient. Otherwise, proof of language proficiency by means of a certificate is required; the minimum level is 60 points in the TOEFL (iBT) or an equivalent result in other relevant tests (e.g. IELTS, TOEIC).
- Essay: a writing sample of two to five pages on a topic related to the areas of the programme.
- Proof of work experience (only required if you are applying for the fast-track program and have less than 210 ECTS): Certificates of work experience in the organisation where you were employed, stating the start and end dates (month and year), area of employment, name of position, and a brief description of duties.
What happens after application?
Applicants who have successfully completed the first stage of the application and are eligible for admission to the programme will be invited to an interview with a member of the faculty, which will be conducted via Skype or telephone. Applicants will be informed individually of the date and time of the interview, which will take place within two weeks of the successful submission of the application.
After the interview, applicants will be informed of the admissions committee's decision within two weeks.