Admissions

Welcome to the Political Science Department at CEU, where academic excellence meets vibrant city life in Vienna. Our department offers a unique international environment, competitive scholarships, and degrees recognized both in Europe and the USA (BA, MA, PhD). With a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, you are assured personalized attention and mentorship.


See You at CEU


Academic Programs:


Why Choose Our Programs in Politics?

Top-Ranked Excellence:

  • Ranked 32nd globally for Politics and International Studies by QS in 2024.
  • Ranked 101-150 in the 2024 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) prepared by Shanghai Ranking Consultancy

Advantages:

  • Double Accreditation: Degrees recognized in both Austria and the USA.
  • Financial Aid: Generous scholarship opportunities available.
  • Diverse Career Paths: Graduates thrive in academia, civil service, media, NGOs, political and cultural organizations, and private enterprises.
  • Skill Development: Emphasis on research, writing, and analytical skills.
  • Supportive Community: Join a vibrant, international network of scholars and professionals.

Hear from Our Faculty

Watch this video to hear from Professor Judit Sandor about what makes CEU a unique and exceptional place to study.




Entry Requirements

One-Year MA Program: Requires at least four years of university education.
Two-Year MA Program: Suitable for candidates with a three-year BA degree.

Typically, successful applicants hold degrees in economics, history, law, political science, or sociology, but we welcome diverse academic backgrounds.


Key Admission Deadlines for Academic Year 2025-26

October 15, 2024 (23:59, Central European Time)* 

Application deadline** for applicants from visa-sensitive countries(i.e. countries where it may take 9 to 12 months to obtain a study residence permit and visa).   

Early application deadline** for applicants seeking an early decision because they either need no CEU financial aid or wish to apply for external funding.  Those applicants in this category should email the Admissions Office to request an early decision after they have applied.  

*Applicants will receive a response in December 2024.  
**Please note: this deadline does not apply to Erasmus Mundus (MESPOM, Mundus MAPP) programs and the MA in International Relations New York track -- see below. 

February 4, 2025 (23:59, Central European Time)* 

Application deadline for applicants  from non-visa-sensitive countries who wish to be considered for CEU financial aid (where available).  

Application deadline for Erasmus Mundus (MESPOM, Mundus MAPP) programs and the MA in International Relations New York track for all candidates seeking financial aid, regardless of citizenship. 

April 15, 2025 (23:59, Central European Time)

Application deadline for self-financing applicants for all master’s programs (including MESPOM, Mundus MAPP and the MA in International Relations New York track) who need a visa to enter Austria (except applicants from visa-sensitive countries).  

July 1, 2025 (23:59, Central European Time) 

Application deadline for self-financing applicants for master’s programs  (including MESPOM, Mundus MAPP and the MA in International Relations New York track) who need no visa to enter Austria. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Subject to spaces available.  


Ready to Apply? Here’s How:

Application Checklist:

  1. Get Started: Understand the Admissions Process & Timeline.
  2. Stay Connected: Use the Applicant Portal.
  3. Prepare Well: Review FAQs and Program-Specific Requirements.

Apply Now


Accepted to CEU? Here’s What’s Next:


Join us at CEU's Political Science Department and become part of a community dedicated to academic excellence and impactful careers!


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For general questions and requests, contact the main Admissions Office. For specific inquiries, reach out to our department here.