What is your experience of applying to the CEU? How did you hear about it? And why did you choose it?
- I learnt about the CEU from a friend who studied there. He told me that this is an international university in Europe, with quality education entirely in English and variety of scholarships. I was intrigued and started researching about the University, its ranking, programs and available scholarships. I chose it in the end because they had my discipline of study – International Relations, the professors were quite cool and famous scholars (I used to read their books during my BA studies) and there was a full scholarship, which was important for me because without it I would have not been able to afford studying in Europe. I made a right decision to apply because CEU is really international, there are over 100 nationalities here: it is amazing to have now friends all around the globe. Studies are interesting, and there is a Career Support Office at the University, which helps to look for jobs/internships after graduation. It helped me to find my dream job when I graduated.
That’s great. Can you tell about the application process? Was it difficult to get in?
- Application to BA, MA and PhD programs at CEU starts sometime in November and finishes by end of January. I remember that I applied in January, just before the deadline. I registered at CEU portal and filled out the application form online, attached a motivational letter, an essay and recommendation letters. The process is not very difficult, but it takes time. It was interesting that I did not have to apply for a scholarship separately. In the end of the application I just ticked the box that I need a full financial aid and did not even attach any financial documents.
What do you think helped you to be successful in your application?
- I think I wrote a good motivation letter and an essay about International Relations. I studied well the university website to learn more about my program, I read a lot, thought a lot. I also consulted people who studied there and asked for advice (the University has a special app where you can contact people who study there and ask them questions). All this information helped me to prepare a strong application and show the University why I want to study with them and how it will further help me in the future. I also had good IELTS score, maybe that helped.
Any advice to those who are applying now?
- I would suggest to apply to several programs. When you register your application you have to pay 30 Euro fee and with that you can apply to 3 different programs/departments (each requires a separate application, motivation letter and essay). So I would definitely suggest to apply to 2 or 3 programs, as a backup.
- I would suggest to very carefully study the CEU application page https://www.ceu.edu/apply to be sure about the requirements and just to know where you are applying – this will help to define the reason why you are applying.
- Also, see if you can apply for a two-year MA (instead of 1 year MA) because that is really better and less stressful.
- And lastly, I would suggest to use the CEU’s preparation materials listed on their website because there you can find a format of the CV and important tips on how to write motivation letter and put together a competitive application. These materials really make it easier to apply, because then you will know what exactly the university is looking for. Good Luck!