Frequently Asked Questions

What are your distinguishing factors?

We distinguish ourselves from other economics programs around the world primarily with our emphasis on policy and the application of economic theory. We are also unique given the small size of entering classes allowing for an intimate learning environment. We are lucky to be in Geneva, surrounded by international policy in the making and opportunities for joint research projects, conferences or employment with the nearby international organizations. Geneva also benefits from the vicinity of the Alps and pristine lake. Finally, many of our students appreciate our relatively low tuition costs.
 

Are you part of the University of Geneva?

No, we are a separate institution, with its own vision, structure, staff and policies. None-the-less, we collaborate closely with the University of Geneva. For instance, we rely on the University for part of our funding and some of our professors are involved in teaching advanced undergraduate courses to University students. We also encourage our Masters and PhD students to participate actively in seminars offered at the University of Geneva. Our students can also enroll in courses at the University of Geneva.
 

I have not yet finished my current diploma, can I still apply?

Yes, you can still apply. Actually, most of our candidates apply in the final year of their degree. In your application, you should therefore include a transcript covering all classes until the application date. If you are admitted and decide to attend our program, you will then be asked to bring an official copy of your diploma before registering at The Graduate Institute of International Studies.
 

Can I come on campus to be interviewed?

We do not conduct formal interviews of candidates. We therefore think it would be unfair to allow some candidates to interview on a one-off basis. None-the-less, you are welcome to visit campus and chat informally with some of our professors and students. If you are interested, please write to  economics@ graduateinstitute.ch
 

Should I have a diploma in economics to be admitted?

We do not only look for students with an economics diploma. We essentially look for academic excellence in a prior field and exposure to mathematics and statistics. Some background in economics or finance is preferred, though.
 

Are international candidates admissible?

Not only are international candidates admissible, but most members of the entering class hold non-Swiss passports.
 

Once I get my Masters degree, can I proceed to the PhD?

Entrance to the PhD is competitive and you will have to re-apply in your last semester of the Masters program. If, during your Masters years, you have demonstrated to be among the top students in your class and have shown a particular interest and passion for economics, you will generally be admitted to the PhD program. Remember that you can also apply directly to the PhD program.
 

Where should I send my completed application?

All the appropriate mailing information for your application and for the letters of recommendation appears in your application form (whether you downloaded it or received it by mail).
 

Where should I send my letters of recommendation?

The letters can be included in the application, or can be sent separately to the same address where you send your application. Letters must be sealed and include your referees' signature across the back of the envelope (over the flap).
 

In what language should the letters of recommendation be written?

Letters should be written in English or French. If that is not possible, they should be translated into English or French by a certified translator. But please ask the translator to also include the original letter and to seal the envelope with a signature across its back.
 

Once I have sent my application, can I check its status?

Candidates who have submitted their application online can follow the status of their application using their login information. All useful information is given in the application form. For candidates using the paper form, no possiblity of follow up exists. The Admission office does not give any information on the phone.
 

How big are classes?

Classes tend to be small and very conducive to open discussions. You will be between 20 and 25 in your core classes and between 5 and 15 in your seminar classes.
 

Do students work in groups?

Yes. We recognized that much of the learning goes on in groups, as students debate and discuss answers to problems or course material. Most homeworks, problem sets and presentations are done in groups.
 

Are there teaching assistants to help with classes?

All core classes and several elective classes will have a teaching assistant who will lead a weekly review session of the material covered in lecture. Furthermore, the teaching assistants will help correct problem sets and explain solutions. Assistants (as professors) also have weekly office hours to answer questions on an individual basis.
 

How can I finance my education?

General information how to finance your education can be found in the "Financial Aid" part of the Tuition and Scholarship page of this Website. Unfortunately, there are few Institute scholarships to support students (especially Masters students). We encourage students to look for external scholarships. More detailed information for PhD students is available at the bottom of the PhD Program page of this Website.
 

Should I know French?

It is a formal requirement of the Graduate Institute of International Studies that students be fluent in either English or French, while having a working knowledge of the other. None-the-less, all classes in the economics department are taught in English only. Should you require extra help in learning French, you will be able to enrol in lessons at the Institute.
 

If I have advanced knowledge in some classes, can I be exempt from taking them again? Can I transfer credits?

Yes, at the beginning of the school year, you can ask to transfer credits for advanced classes you may have already taken. This is done on a one-off basis, usually with the approval of the head of section. None-the-less, you will still have to take the full Masters comprehensive exam at the end of your first year.
 

Once I arrive in Geneva, will I be able to keep my current health insurance?

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If you are a Swiss citizen or have lived in Switzerland for several years, you will be asked to register with a Swiss health insurance, usually at higher cost. But if you are a foreign national, you can ask the Insurance Department of the Canton of Geneva (they will contact you once you arrive) to keep your current insurance policy.