Admission Requirements

Admissions to the different programmes at the Geneva School of Diplomacy is a highly selective process based upon a thorough review of a detailed application package that the applicant is asked to submit.

The Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations evaluates applicants based on the breadth of their program of study, their academic achievements, the results of their national examinations, and the evaluation provided by their teachers and counsellors. The applicant’s written statement of purpose, as well as evidence of his or her maturity, also play an important role in the Admissions Committee’s decision. GSD reserves the right to require a personal evaluative interview before or even after the submission of the application. This interview is a very useful way for both, the applicant as well as for the school, to get a more complete picture of the candidate and to learn more about the Geneva School of Diplomacy and the mutual expectations. The interviewer may take notes and add his feedback to the candidate’s application which will be transferred to the Admissions Committee.

The Geneva School of Diplomacy offers academic programmes in English only. Please see the specific language requirements for each study level. Accepted are only those English tests and exams that are listed on the document below.


Download language requirements

Prospective students may be dispensed from written proof of English language test. If they have:

1)      Attended an international school where the language of instruction was English

2)      Their mother tongue is English

Even though it is encouraged for students to start in September, we do allow for 3 intakes during the academic year. In September, December, and March.
Our recommended application dates are as follows:

- September intake (trimester I): June 30
- December intake (trimester II): September 30
- March intake (trimester III): December 31

Bachelors of Arts in International Relations programme:
The candidate applying for this programme must have a high school diploma (International Baccalaureate, A-Levels, Maturita, Abitur, Advanced Placements, or any other recognised diploma/certificate), and a confirmed high motivation in pursuing International Relations studies.

Candidates should also have reached a minimum English proficiency level equivalent to an overall IELTS1 test score of 6. This should include a minimum score of 6 in both the Writing and Reading components of the IELTS test, or a minimum  TOEFL2 score of 550.

Master of International Relations programme:
Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution and a high motivation in pursuing studies in international relations.

Candidates should also have reached a minimum English proficiency level equivalent to an overall IELTS1 test score of 6. This should include a minimum score of 6 in both the Writing and Reading components of the IELTS test, or a minimum  TOEFL2 score of 550.

Executive Master of International Relations programme:
Additionally to the basic requirements a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised institution and at least 5 years documented work experience.

Doctor of International Relations programme:
A Master’s Degree in International Relations/Political Science from a recognised university, and a minimum of five years relevant work experience. In special cases, a minimum of ten years appropriate working experience (in the absence of a Master Degree).

Certificate programme:
10-week intensive programme (currently not available).

Course Audit also possible
Please contact GSD office for details; current fee available under Fees and other costs

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1 IELTS : International English Testing Service examination, administered by the British Council.
2 TOEFL : Test of English as a Foreign Language, administered by the Educational Testing Service, Rosedale Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08541, USA.