In English only - In this document, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions our admission and administrative staff receive. If you do not see an answer to your question below, please contact the Student Office for assistance.
Table of contents
What you must know before making a decision:
General Information about the Institute
What is the Graduate Institute?
The Graduate Institute is the result of the 2008 merger of two academic institutions specialised in international relations and development studies: the Graduate Institute of International Studies (HEI) and the Graduate Institute of Development Studies (IUED). Both have a long-standing experience in training students from all over the world and the new Institute has been established to capitalise on the synergies between the fields of international affairs and development to foster innovative research and education.
What kind of study programmes does the Institute offer?
The Institute offers a large selection of graduate study programmes (Masters and PhD), some disciplinary, some interdisciplinary. Courses are taught by professors from all over the world, providing students with the methodological tools and necessary knowledge for a rigorous analysis of historical and contemporary issues in the fields of international affairs and development.
There are five full-time programmes:
Is the Graduate Institute well known? What is its reputation?
The Graduate Institute is both old and new: on the one hand, the Institute builds on the long and rich experience of its predecessors – the Graduate Institute of International Studies (est. 1927) and the Graduate Institute of Development Studies (est. 1961); on the other, we aspire to be much more than the mere sum of these sets of competencies and resources. As an internationally accredited institution, we aim to become a world leader in graduate education, research and intellectual debate around emerging and contemporary global challenges.
What is the Bologna Process?
Through cooperation between European governments, the Bologna Process seeks to create a European Higher Education Area by 2010, initiating reforms to make the European Higher Education system more compatible, more competitive and more attractive. The Bologna Process establishes the common degrees of Bachelor-Master-PhD and uses a common system of credits called ECTS, equivalent across Europe and recognised around the world. Switzerland and the Graduate Institute adhere to the Bologna system.
What are ECTS credits?
The ECTS system allows for an overview of educational programmes based on the associated credits. These credits express the workload expected from the student in view of all the courses offered throughout the semester. For the Master’s programmes, a semester is equal to 30 ECTS credits; 1 ECTS credits equals approximately 25-30 hours of student workload. Credits are awarded once a student has successfully completed the course.
What are the career opportunities after graduation?
Past graduate students have gone on to diverse careers in international organisations (WHO, ILO, IMO, UNCTAD, WTO, UNHCR, WIPO, Red Cross…), NGOs, diplomacy and civil service, multinational companies, the banking and financial sector, journalism and media, communication and public relations, as well as academic research and teaching. Our students are known to be hardworking, flexible, open-minded, interdisciplinary and multilingual. During their studies, the Career Services Office sends them internship and job offers by email ; its staff further helps students prepare CVs and interviews and organises meeting/conferences with managers and alumni from different sectors.
How many people study at the Institute? Where do the students come from?
Since 2007, our student body has been exclusively graduate and post-graduate, with over a hundred nationalities represented. In 2008, the Institute hosts 800 students, 550 in Master’s programmes, 250 in PhD programmes. Our candidates are exceptionally diverse, though characteristically cosmopolitan, because the Graduate Institute encourages applications from the entire world.
Admitted candidates for the 2008-2009 academic year
| Gender Distribution |
Men: 172
Women: 249
|
| Place of residence at the time of application |
Switzerland: 75
Europe: 140
North America: 70
Latin America: 46
Asia: 52
Africa: 33
Oceania: 5 |
What is the average class size?
In core or elective courses, there are approximately 20 to 60 students; in seminars, approximately 20 students. Our personalised approach and our small classes allow us to offer such an attractive ratio of students to professors that students receive personal attention and commitment from our faculty members
Who are the professors and lecturers?
All our professors and senior lecturers hold doctorates and are chosen for their extensive knowledge, reputation and professional experience. They are more than instructors, they also act as advisors and mentors -in particular towards their PhD students.
Can I enrol at the Graduate Institute part-time?
The Institute’s primary commitment is to full-time studies and it does not offer part-time education, except for the Executive Education certificates or Executive Masters. Please keep in mind that our study programmes do not offer any evening classes: all classes are held during the day
Does the Institute offer summer schools?
The Graduate Institute currently offers two summer programmes: “International Affairs and Multilateral Governance” and “WTO, International Trade and Development”. If you are interested in obtaining credit for one of these summer programmes, you should contact the Study Abroad Office of your University. The application deadline for both programmes is 1 April, 2010. For further information, please visit the Summer Programmes Website or send an email to summeraffairs@graduateinstitute.ch.
Does the Institute offer executive education programmes?
The Graduate Institute provides a range of degrees, short or tailor-made programmes geared towards mid-career professionals. In particular, our Executive Education programmes include two Executive Masters (one in International Negotiation and Policymaking, the other in Development Studies), training courses and workshops, as well as certificates. The next open enrolment will start this Fall 2009. For further information, do not hesitate to visit the Summer Programmes Website or to send an email to executive@graduateinstitute.ch.
Does the Institute offer distance-learning courses?
For the time being, the Institute does not offer distance-learning education. All the courses and seminars are held on the campus; you need to attend them in person.
Can I schedule an individual visit?
For the time being, the Institute does not organise collective or individual classroom or campus visits.
Where can I find a course calalog?
Please find an online version of our catalog.
About the Admission Process
CALENDAR
What is the admission deadline?
Admission to the Institute is organised on a yearly basis so that enrolment always takes place at the start of the Autumn semester. For the 2010-2011 academic year, the complete application file must reach the Admissions Office at the latest on January 15, 2010.
Where can I find the application form?
Please find the online application form here.
Is it possible to be admitted for the Spring term?
No, it is not. The academic year always starts in September and students cannot begin studies in the Spring term.
SELECTION
What does the Graduate Institute look for in its applicants?
Even if we do not have a specific profile of the ideal applicant, there are some qualities we hope all of our students share: integrity, a deep interest in learning and a devotion to both academic and professional pursuits. Many candidates also bring distinctive academic and extracurricular talents and achievements. A prospective student’s intellectual curiosity and academic excellence are the most important factors in our decision.
Does the Graduate Institute have quotas for a particular region or school?
No, it does not. Applicants are compared to all other applicants, both regionally and globally.
Is there an age limit for applying?
There is no age limit for applying to any of our programmes.
Do I need to take the GRE in order to apply? How important are the GRE scores for the application?
The GRE is not necessary to enter our programmes except for the MIS and PhD programmes with a specialisation in International Economics, where it is compulsory. If you have already taken the GRE test, please include it in your application file. Please be aware that scores are reported for five years after taking the test. Specific information can be found at the GRE website.
May I apply if I have not yet completed the degree I am working on?
You may apply to the Institute during the last year of the degree or diploma necessary to gain admission to the programme you are interested in (“licence” or Bachelor’s degree for a Master, DEA or Master for the PhD). In this case, admission will be granted conditionally and the final decision will depend on whether you meet the specific requirements (minimum mark) that the Admissions Office will set and which will be notified to you.
Do examinations have to be taken for admission to the Institute?
No, they do not. Admissions are decided solely on the basis of the application file.
Are personal interviews part of the application procedure?
The Institute’s procedure does not comprise individual interviews.
Is it possible to transfer to the Graduate Institute from another university?
No, it is not. At the time being, the Graduate Institute is not able to offer transfer admission.
Do you have any tips for applying?
The Admission Office advises you to:
- Gather application materials early and give yourself plenty of time to complete each step. Applications that have been rushed look sloppy and incomplete applications will probably not be accepted.
- Think carefully about who should write your letters of recommendation. Choose people, in most cases, your teachers, who can be specific about your strengths as well as your ability to overcome your weaknesses.
- In your letter of motivation, let your personality shine through. Present your profile and qualities in a focused, thoughtful and meaningful manner. Write in a natural style and support your arguments with relevant examples.
- Keep a copy of everything you submit with a proof of having sent it.
PROCEDURE
How do I apply? Should I use the electronic or paper application?
Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete the online application form. Candidates using this system pay a reduced non-refundable application fee of CHF 100 directly when filling out the form. Applicants who do not use the online form can download or ask for the application documents and send them to the Admissions Office. A non-refundable application fee of CHF 150 applies in this case.
To which address should I submit my application and supporting documents?
Please send all documents to:
Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies
Admissions Office
Voie Creuse 16
P.O Box 136
1211 Geneva 21
Switzerland
How do I add new information if I have already submitted my application?
Once the application has been submitted, the Admissions Office is unable to accept application updates other than contact ones.
What is the application fee?
The application fee is 100 CHF for online applications and 150 CHF for handwritten and typed ones. Please note that it is not refundable no matter what the circumstances may be.
I do not have a credit card, how can I pay the application fee?
If you cannot pay online, you can make a bank transfer to:
UBS SA, rue du Rhône 8, 1204 Genève
for: Fondation pour l'étude des relations internationales et du développement
- Compte CHF :
IBAN: CH080024024048494300D
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
- Compte EUR:
IBAN: CH930024024048494302T
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
- Compte USD:
IBAN: CH440024024048494303Z
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
Once the payment is registered, it will appear in your online application.
May I be exempt from the application fee?
No, the application fee covers the administrative expenses connected with the application process, whether you are admitted or not. They are non-refundable.
Is it possible to send my dissertation on a floppy disk or as an attachment?
Dissertations and articles must be printed out and sent by post at the same time as the other documents in the application file.
How do I know if my application is complete?
Your status can be checked online through our application system. Please check for yourself as we will not notify you if anything is missing in your application.
I left university a long time ago and I am no longer in touch with my teachers. How should I proceed to get letters of recommendation?
You are advised to request letters from former teachers, but you can also ask one of your employers to write a letter.
Must I have my official documents translated (diplomas, letters of recommendation, etc.)?
Any documents that are not written in French, English, German, Italian or Spanish must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Should I come to campus to state my case?
We do not encourage applicants to come to campus to state their case for admissions.
Can my professor send directly his letter of appraisal to you?
Yes.
DECISION
How is the decision taken about admittance and who takes it?
The decision to admit a student is taken by the academic unit concerned (International Affairs, Development Studies, International Economics, Political Science, International History and Politics, International Law). Our admissions process is selective and rigorous: in 2008, 28% of the candidates were admitted, 12% of them conditionally. In general, the Faculty decides on the basis of the academic results, the letters of recommendation, the personal letter of motivation and the overall quality of the candidate. This includes work-experience, extracurricular involvement and language skills.
How important are extracurricular activities in the admissions process?
By far the most important selection criteria are the applicant’s academic curriculum and his or her academic performance. However, extracurricular or professional activities, such as internships or work experience, are an important complement, demonstrating an applicant’s ability to thrive in and contribute to the global life of the Institute.
When will I be informed whether I am admitted or refused?
The decision on admission, as well as on the request for financial support, is mailed to the candidates before Mid-March.
Can I appeal against the decision to reject my application?
No.
What does “conditional admission” mean?
There are two types of conditional offers of admission:
- Conditions on language: You are offered admission on the condition that you prove a sufficient level in English for enroling in the programme to which you have been admitted.
- Conditions on undergraduate degree: You are offered admission, but you must provide, no later than at the time of your administrative registration, the undergraduate degree required by the programme to which you have been admitted. If you cannot provide such a document at this time, you will lose your admission offer.
I have been admitted to one of your programmes, can I defer my offer to next year?
Applicants must re-apply online at the next session; they will undergo the selection process once again.
About the language requirements
What is the Graduate Institute's language policy?
The official working languages of the Institute are English and French. Each student has the right to express him or herself, orally or in written format, in one of these two languages. Applicants need to prove their English proficiency by achieving a certain score on the TOEFL or IELTS tests. Knowledge of French is not a prerequisite for entering our programmes, except for the programmes in the field of development where a majority of classes are held in French. In fact, about a third of our students begin the programmes with no prior knowledge of French. If that is your case, you can ask for a waiver (see the Application section on our website) and will be required to take compulsory in-house French classes.
All details about our language requirements [pdf].
What about the TOEFL or IELTS tests?
If they are not English native speakers or have not studied in an English-taught undergraduate programme, candidates must take an English proficiency test. These applicants are urged to visit www.toefl.org (for the TOEFL test) or www.ielts.org (for the IELTS test) as quickly as possible for more information on this examination. Some minimum scores are required for admission to the Graduate Institute; TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid two years.
I do not have any scores in TOEFL but in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Are they valid?
Please provide us with proof and official confirmation that 6.5 IELTS are equivalent to 620 points TOEFL. Note that Cambridge exams are also accepted.
My academic TOEFL/IELTS score was lower than the minimum requirement. Can I still be admitted?
No, you cannot.
I do not speak French. Can I file my application?
Yes, you can but you must attach a waiver request to your application file, and undertake to attend the French classes organised by the Institute to pass the required test.
I do not have a diploma in English and it is too late to sit the TOEFL before January 15. What can I do?
You may submit your application together with proof that you have enroled to take this test, indicating the date on which you will take it.
Can I take language classes at the Institute?
The Institute does not directly offer language classes. However, if you are accepted at the Institute with a French waiver, there is a mandatory three-week French course just before classes begin in autumn, as well as weekly classes during the first semester.
During the academic year, various language classes are organised by the Institute’s Student Association and taught by fellow students. Affordable language classes are also available outside the university, for example at the Université Populaire du Canton de Genève.
About funding your studies
EXPENSES
What is the cost of living in Geneva?
You have to allow for a budget of approximately CHF 22’000 per year (this budget assumes a modest student lifestyle).
How much do studies cost?
The semester fees are:
- CHF 1.500 for persons who officially reside in Switzerland at the time of application;
- CHF 2.500 for others.
All admitted students are further required to pay a fixed semester fee of CHF 65 to the University of Geneva. For further information, please visit the Website of the Bureau des Immatriculations of the University of Geneva (in French).
Can I be exempt from tuition?
The following students are exempt from payment of the Institute’s tuition fees:
- Students who benefit from a grant from the State of Geneva ;
- Teaching assistants employed by the Institute or the University of Geneva ;
- Students benefiting from a full scholarship granted by or through the Institute ;
- Students who are granted a scholarship from the Commission fédérale des bourses pour les étrangers ;
How can I pay?
At the beginning of the semester, students receive a payment slip in order to settle payment of their semester fees. Enrolment for the semester is validated once payment is received. They can also pay electronically; the bank references are as follows:
UBS SA, rue du Rhône 8, 1204 Genève
for: Fondation pour l'étude des relations internationales et du développement
- Compte CHF :
IBAN: CH080024024048494300D
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
- Compte EUR:
IBAN: CH930024024048494302T
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
- Compte USD:
IBAN: CH440024024048494303Z
BIC/SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A
FINANCIAL AID
Does the Institute offer scholarships or financial aid?
A substantial number of scholarships (full, partial or tuition) are allocated each year to Master’s and PhD students on the basis of academic merit and financial need.
What is the average amount of a scholarship?
A full scholarship amounts to CHF 18’000 for a period of 10 months.
What is the deadline for applying for scholarships?
The application deadline is January 15 of each year, together with the application for admission. Applications submitted beyond the deadline are usually not considered.
How long do scholarships last?
They last 10 months and may be renewed.
Who is eligible for a scholarship?
The following criteria are used (though not always exclusively): financial need, academic and extra-curricular achievements.
For specific scholarships, national or geographic criteria may apply (for instance scholarships from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation are intended for South or transition countries’ nationals).
What are my chances of receiving a scholarship?
This depends largely upon how well you meet qualifications.
Is a tuition waiver included with the scholarship?
Yes, students who obtain a scholarship receive a 100% tuition waiver, but they are not exempt from University of Geneva fees.
When must I file my application for financial support?
At the same time as your application. For candidates using the electronic form, you will find a direct link there. For others, you can download a form to apply for a scholarship. Please read first our Regulations governing our scholarships.
I cannot afford to pay the application fee. May I be exempt from it?
No exemption is granted from the application fee.
I noticed that students of the Institute have to be matriculated at the University of Geneva. What should I do?
If you are admitted, we will send you an application form for matriculation at the University, along with some explanations about the procedures to be completed before the start of the academic year.
Your decision to apply for a Master's programme
How many Master’s programmes does the Institute offer?
The Institute offers three Master’s programmes:
- The Master of International Affairs (MIA) which is interdisciplinary.
- The Master of Development Studies (MDev) which is interdisciplinary.
- The Master of International Studies (MIS) with a specialisation in International Law, Political Science, International Economics or History and International Politics.
What is the admission process?
Admissions are decided on the basis of the overall application file with priority given to academic achievement, recommendations and motivation letters of motivation.
- For International Studies and International Affairs, candidates must have obtained either a degree/diploma (“licence” or Bachelor’s degree, DEA or another degree deemed equivalent) in one of the Institute’s four disciplines (Law, Economics, History or Political Science) or in a related discipline. For International Affairs, holders of a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than social sciences but with a high-quality academic record may apply for the programme.
- For Development Studies, students come from varied backgrounds (with a partiality for social and human sciences).
How competitive is the selection?
Selection is competitive and rigorous.
How long is the duration of studies?
A Master’s degree is awarded after the completion of the Master’s dissertation, i.e. after the fourth semester of studies (four semesters = 120 ECTS). A few students are able to achieve their curriculum in two semesters, some in three semesters.
Is it possible to enter a Master’s programme directly in the second year?
No, it is not.
How much work load is involved in the Master’s programme?
In general, we estimate an average of 10 hours per week for class attendance and between 20 and 30 hours per week for home and library work.
Can I do more than one programme at a time?
Students can only pursue one Master’s programme at a time.
How many times can I apply to a Master’s programme?
You can apply three times.
Can I transfer or waive classes?
For the moment, the Graduate Institute does not accept transfer credits from other institutions. According to the regulation, students do not waive any of the total number of courses required; they can ask derogations for up to two compulsory classes but must substitute them with others.
How many students participate in one class?
We are very proud to offer classes that are small in size, which makes for quality teaching, better interaction between students and easy access to professors. For seminars, expect 5 to 30 students with an average of around 20. Ex-cathedra classes might be larger, but there are few of them. In Development studies, a first semester includes all entering students, in order to provide a baseline; in following semesters, smaller seminars allow the students to specialise.
What are the career opportunities for graduates of the Institute?
Past graduates have gone on to diverse careers in international organisations, NGOs, public administration, diplomacy, development, multinational corporations, and banks. The Career Services office provides personalised job search counseling, sends out job and internship offers, and organises workshops for professional skills acquisition as well as the yearly forum Connexion to connect with potential employers.
Are there Exchange Programmes available?
The Institute has concluded exchange agreements with various universities: George Washington, Sciences Po Paris, Singapore National, Seoul National, Tufts, St Gallen, Waseda and Yale. For Law students, exchange is also possible with Harvard, Boston, UCLA and Michigan Law Schools. Students who are interested must apply during the second semester and have completed a minimum of 60 credits ECTS. Selection is competitive and based on academic merit. Courses taken at the host university will count towards degree requirements except for PhD programmes.
Your decision to apply to a Ph.D. programme
How many PhD programmes does the Institute offer?
The Institute offers two PhD programmes:
- The Ph.D, in Development Studies which is interdisciplinary with a focus on the field of Development ;
- The Ph.D. in International Studies with a specialisation in International Law, Political Science, International Economics or History and International Politics.
Why pursue a PhD in Development or International Studies?
Our Ph.D.s are designed primarily to prepare students for academic careers in research and teaching in academic institutions. Our graduates will also be prepared for positions in prestigious organisations or companies where academic research is highly valued.
What areas of specialisation are offered in the PhD programme in International Studies?
Whereas the Ph.D. in Development Studies is interdisciplinary, the PhD in International Studies offers four areas of specialisation: International Economics, International Law, Political Science, International History and Politics.
What does the Admissions Committee look for?
The Admission Committee will look at the academic achievement of the candidates, the originality of their proposal and their capacity to do research successfully. Specific requirements may vary slightly by area of specialisation.
I would like to be admitted directly to the Ph.D. programme because I already have a Master’s degree.
If you have a “maîtrise”, a Master’s degree, a DEA or an equivalent degree, you may file your application but must attach to your admission application a copy of a piece of written work which must be comparable to a DEA or Master dissertation.
How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. degree?
According to regulations, the Ph.D. programme must not exceed four years. In general, the first two semesters are devoted to coursework, the third to the preliminary dissertation and the five remaining for research and writing.
How many new students are admitted each year?
For the 2008 academic year, we received 169 applications: 32 for the Ph.D. in Development Studies and 137 for the Ph.D. in International Studies. On the average, we admit 60 students.
Can I work on my Ph.D. while holding a full-time job?
This would be difficult. As a Ph.D. student, you are expected to follow a certain number of compulsory courses during your first two semesters, to write your preliminary dissertation by the end of the third semester and to successfully defend your thesis by the end of the eighth semester.
Do I need to move to Geneva? Is there a residency requirement?
During the first two semesters, there is a requirement to attend courses. After the completion of the preliminary dissertation, attendance is not compulsory and periodical visits to Geneva can be arranged by agreement with your supervisor.
How many courses do Ph.D. students take?
By the end of the second semester, you must obtain between 12 and 24 credits depending on the specialisation:
- 18 credits for the Ph.D. in Development Studies,
- 12 credits for the Ph.D. in International Studies with a specialisation in International Law,
- 24 credits for the Ph.D. in International Studies with a specialisation in International Economics,
- 24 credits for the Ph.D. in International Studies with a specialisation in International History and Politics.
- 18 credits for the Ph.D. in International Studies with a specialisation in Political Science.
Please keep in mind that six credits are given for a half-yearly course of two hours per week during one semester, twelve credits for a yearly course of two hours per week. For further information, please check the different curricula available on the Web site.
Where can I find the curricula?
The curriculum is included in this website.
May I transfer credits from a Master’s degree?
No, it is not possible.
Do you encourage transfers from other PhD programmes?
In general, no.
What is the preliminary dissertation?
Its main purpose is to show that:
- The problem you propose to investigate is significant enough to warrant the investigation,
- The method you plan to use is suitable and feasible,
- The results you aim at are likely to prove to be fruitful and to make an original contribution.
What does the viva or thesis defence involve?
The viva voce or defence is the final oral examination when the Ph.D. candidate is required to present his or her thesis in front of a panel of examiners. This panel comprises the Ph.D. supervisor, an internal examiner from the Graduate Institute and an external examiner who has been selected as a specialist in the student’s research area. In general, the panel is chaired by a member of the faculty of the Institute. The student is awarded the degree of Ph.D. on passing the viva and on completion of any required corrections/revisions to the satisfaction of the examiner(s).
Whom should recommendations come from?
Your application is reinforced by letters of recommendation from persons most able to judge your capacity to write a doctoral dissertation. The faculty attaches more weight to recommendation letters from scholars, particularly from your Master’s thesis supervisors. The three letters should comment on your talents, skills and potential for success as an independent researcher.
Do I need to have a supervisor before applying for a PhD?
No, you do not. After being admitted, external Ph.D. students are expected to find a thesis supervisor by the end of the first semester.
How do I find out what the research interests of faculty members are?
Go to the Faculty pages of the Web site. Clicking on a faculty member’s name will take you to their general profile that contains detailed information on their research interests and a list of publications.
Does it help to email/mail a faculty member before I apply?
No, it does not.
How close to having a fixed research topic does an applicant need to be at the time of application?
At the admission stage the faculty will be looking for evidence of scholarly achievement, capacity for independent research and sense to choose a significant topic. This will be reflected in the documents that you submit in support of your application including the letter of motivation and the proposed topic of study.
What do you mean by a "research proposal"?
The application form asks you to indicate a proposed topic of study and to submit a research proposal describing your proposed research topic in more detail.
This is analogous to the "Statement of Purpose" required by other universities, but we are more interested in your research orientation than in anything else. The research proposal is a very important component of your application. Potential supervisors and others in related research areas will be involved in assessing your application and they will be looking at your proposal for evidence that you have an appropriate background for the topic area and for your own ideas about how research on that topic should best be taken forward. What you write is not binding, but it will give an useful impression of your background, interests and ideas. If you have not yet decided on a precise area of study, please tell us about areas of International or Development Studies that you find most interesting and why, in as much detail as possible.
My research topic overlaps with other disciplines or fields (for ex. Development, Law, Political Science, etc.). Can I still apply for a specific area of specialisation and will there be adequate supervision for me?
If your topic encompasses more than one field or discipline, it is possible to be admitted to one unit but to ask to be jointly supervised by professors from two different academic units.
I have already gathered data and have a research manuscript. Can I simply polish the manuscript and submit it to receive a Ph.D.?
No, you cannot. Candidates are expected to develop a research subject and write a dissertation under the supervision of a thesis director at the Graduate Institute.
Is access from the Master’s to the Ph.D. programmes automatic?
Although completing the Master’s programme at the Institute facilitates access to the Ph.D. programme, the decision to admit a student is based on the application file, on the academic results as a whole and on the letters of recommendation.
Can I go on with a Ph.D. after having completed the MIA?
MIA students can apply to the Ph.D. in international Studies, but admission may not be easy. Given that the Ph.D. in International Studies is disciplinary (Political Science, International Economics, International Law, History), the discipline in which MIA students received their BA is an important criterion for admission to the Ph.D.
Are Ph.D. students required to teach?
Ph.D. students do not teach, except if they have the status of teaching assistant.
Can I work as a research assistant or a teaching assistant?
Faculty members sometimes employ doctoral students as research assistants on their research projects, and students are strongly encouraged to apply for these positions as they provide a good professional experience. These positions vary from year to year, depending on the grant money awarded to faculty members.
Teaching assistants help professors by helping them in marking assignments and delivering course handouts.
Student Life in Geneva
What are the advantages of studying in Geneva?
Located in the heart of Europe, Geneva is a truly international city and recognised business centre. The Graduate Institute benefits from its proximity to international and non-governmental organisations, diplomatic missions and multinational companies. The majestic lake and the view of the Alps make Geneva a place of outstanding natural beauty. Our campus extends from Lake Geneva to the United Nations area.
More info on student life in Geneva.
How do I find accommodation in Geneva?
For the moment, the Institute does not offer accommodation on its campus. However, we will send you the list of student accommodation in Geneva together with your letter of admission (residence halls, university housing, hotels and furnished flats). As it is not easy to find lodging facilities we advise you to search for accommodation as soon as you receive the confirmation of your admission.
What are the restaurant options on campus?
The campus offers two cafeterias: one near Villa Barton, in the park, and the other in the Rothschild building.
How do students get access to library and computer facilities?
Once registration fees and tuition are paid, access to library resources can be obtained; except for interlibrary loans, library privileges are free for all registered students. Concerning computer facilities, a Getting Started Kit will be provided during registration at the Student Office.
Is the campus fully wired for computer networking?
The library, the cafeteria and several classrooms are hard-wired for high-speed Internet connections.
What visas and residence permits are necessary for studying in Geneva?
Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter Switzerland and/or to stay more than 3 months. Please check with your country’s Swiss embassy for details. Because the visa process may take several weeks to a few months, make sure to apply at your embassy as soon as possible. For more details, find the relevant contacts for your country on the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs website. After arrival in Switzerland, all students are required to go to the Office cantonal de la population to apply for a “permis de séjour” (residence permit). For more information, visit the website of the Service des étrangers, Office cantonal de la Population (OCP) (in French only).
Can I work during my studies?
With the approval of the University of Geneva, our students can get a student permit allowing them to work 20 hours per week.
What jobs/internships are available to students?
Over the years, our Career Services has developed close ties with most of the UN agencies and multinational companies based in Geneva and can hence offer our students a wide range of opportunities to gain work experience. Students of the Institute receive job offers and employment opportunities on a weekly basis on their e-mail account. They can also ask for personalised advice. Once a year, our Career Services hold the Connexion fair where our students can meet prospective employers such as multinational firms, international organisations and NGOs on campus.
When and how can I get my student card?
To obtain your student ID card you need to be a registered student. The card will be delivered by the Student Office desk during the week before the orientation.
Are there student associations at the Institute?
The Student Association named GISA represents students vis-à-vis the Institute and its authorities. At registration, every student automatically becomes a member of the Association.
An “Amicale Afrique” has been created with the aim to promote international relations with Africa, to integrate African students and to allow discussions on specific African problems.
To contact these associations.
How strong is the Alumni network of the Institute?
The Graduate Institute Alumni Association mission is to maintain and strengthen ties among alumni and to contribute to the Institute’s image. The Association organises, in Geneva and in other cities or countries, meetings and events for alumni and helps current students and graduates to define their professional orientation by holding round tables and information meetings. The Graduate Institute alumni community includes more than 10'000 persons that have one common bond: they have studied at least one semester at the Institute.
Who are some well-known alumni?
Many of our alumni have become well-recognised specialists in their domain, like Leonid Hurwicz, the 2007 Nobel Prize in Economics, or Hernando de Soto, President of the Institute for Liberty and Democracy; or prominent personalities such as Kofi Annan, Former UN Secretary General, Micheline Calmy-Rey, Swiss Federal Councillor, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and Paul Martin, Sr., Canadian Foreign Minister; or high-level economic figures such as Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice-President.
Do I have access to sports or leisure facilities?
Yes, all of our students have access to the University of Geneva’s sports and cultural facilities. At the Institute, there is a Ciné-club where students have access to free films followed by a debate.
Does the Institute have parking facilities?
No, but our campus is easily accessible by public transportation, which most of our faculty, staff and students use. It is not necessary to own a car because of the convenient bus and tram systems.
