At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- #46Times Higher Education World University Ranking
- #60QS World University Ranking
- 1 yearProgramme Duration
- 60 ECTSStudy Load
- Fully taught in EnglishLanguage of Instruction
The Master of Science in International Politics (MIP) at KU Leuven offers a rigorous academic framework for understanding global governance. This one-year Master's programme equips you with strong theoretical and methodological skills to analyze contemporary international issues from both global and regional perspectives. You will explore key themes such as diplomacy, peace and conflict, international political economy, and environmental politics, with opportunities to delve into regional specializations like Europe, North America, China, Russia, Eurasia, or Africa. KU Leuven, as one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities, provides an academically rich environment with strong links to policy-making institutions. Students can enhance their professional development through voluntary internships or further academic excellence through the Faculty of Social Sciences’ honours programme. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for careers in political institutions, NGOs, and research organizations worldwide.
Curriculum
The programme provides a comprehensive foundation through a compulsory core curriculum and a Master's thesis. You will specialize by selecting courses from a thematic specialization and a regional specialization, complemented by elective courses to tailor your studies to your interests.
- Master's
- Compulsory Truncus Communis
- Thematic Specialisation Courses
- Regional Specialisation Courses
- Elective Courses
- Master's Thesis
Careers
Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in the private, governmental, and non-governmental sectors at national, European, and international levels. The programme equips you with skills for roles such as regional experts, policy advisors, researchers, diplomats, and journalists.
- Policy-maker
- Regional expert
- UN consultant
- Employee in a non-profit organization
- Project coordinator
- Policy adviser
- Researcher
- Diplomat
- Journalist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of International Politics?
- You need a relevant Bachelor's degree. English language proficiency is required, with accepted tests including IELTS Academic (6.5 overall) and TOEFL iBT (79 overall). Exemptions are possible if your previous diploma was from an English-speaking country.
- How much does the Master of International Politics cost?
- KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally affordable. The exact amount can be found using the tuition fee calculator, as it depends on your academic programme and nationality. You should also budget for living and transportation costs.
- What is the duration of the Master of International Politics programme?
- The Master of International Politics is a one-year Master's programme with a study load of 60 ECTS.
- In what language is the Master of International Politics taught?
- The entire Master of International Politics programme is fully taught in English.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of International Politics?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the application period opens on October 16, 2025. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens it is June 1, 2026.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Master of International Politics?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as policy advisors, researchers, diplomats, journalists, and experts in governmental, non-governmental, and private sectors at national and international levels.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA relevant Bachelor's degree is required. Specific admission requirements are available via the official admission requirements link.
IELTS Academic6.5 (overall)
TOEFL iBT79 (overall)
Cambridge English: Advanced (C1)Pass
Cambridge English: Proficiency (C2)Pass
ITACE C1Pass (only available in Belgium)
ITACE C2Pass (only available in Belgium)
Exemptions from English proficiency tests are typically granted if your previous diploma was obtained in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America. Specific programmes may have higher score requirements or specific sub-score requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Consult the tuition fee calculator for the exact amount, as fees are contingent upon academic programme and nationality.
Tuition (home)Consult the tuition fee calculator for the exact amount, as fees are contingent upon academic programme and nationality.
LivingEstimated costs for living and transportation should be taken into account in addition to tuition fees.
KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally more affordable due to government financing. The exact amount can be determined using the tuition fee calculator. Payment is not possible in cash or by credit card; an invoice with a two-week due date will be provided.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsReview the official and current admission requirements for the Master of International Politics programme.
2. Consult Application DeadlinesIdentify the application window for the academic year you wish to apply. Deadlines vary for non-EEA and EEA citizens.
3. Submit ApplicationFor applicants with prior degrees from outside Flanders, follow the specific application instructions for KU Leuven.
4. Await Admission DecisionOnce your file is submitted, the admissions team will review it.
5. RegistrationIf admitted, proceed with registration and payment of tuition fees.
Scholarships
KU Leuven Scholarships—
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of International Politics?
+
You need a relevant Bachelor's degree. English language proficiency is required, with accepted tests including IELTS Academic (6.5 overall) and TOEFL iBT (79 overall). Exemptions are possible if your previous diploma was from an English-speaking country.
How much does the Master of International Politics cost?
+
KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally affordable. The exact amount can be found using the tuition fee calculator, as it depends on your academic programme and nationality. You should also budget for living and transportation costs.
What is the duration of the Master of International Politics programme?
+
The Master of International Politics is a one-year Master's programme with a study load of 60 ECTS.
In what language is the Master of International Politics taught?
+
The entire Master of International Politics programme is fully taught in English.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of International Politics?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the application period opens on October 16, 2025. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens it is June 1, 2026.
What are the career prospects after completing the Master of International Politics?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as policy advisors, researchers, diplomats, journalists, and experts in governmental, non-governmental, and private sectors at national and international levels.