Central European University (CEU) is a top-ranked graduate university located in Vienna, Austria that offers a wide range of degree programs in the social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, business, and environmental sciences. With a strong focus on research, CEU aims to advance open societies through education, debate, and meaningful public engagement.
Applying to CEU presents an exciting opportunity to access high-quality academics and achieve your goals of personal and professional growth.
Here is an overview of CEU’s admission requirements, funding opportunities, academic programs, student life, and application process to help prospective students make an informed decision.
Admission Requirements at CEU
CEU welcomes applications from qualified candidates worldwide for its master’s and doctoral programs.
The general CEU admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs
- Master’s degree or equivalent for doctoral programs
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
- Letters of recommendation
- CV/Resume
- Written statement of purpose
Some programs may have additional requirements, such as:
- Relevant academic background
- Higher minimum English test scores
- Admission interview
- Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT)
- Writing sample
CEU aims to admit students based on a holistic evaluation of academic merit, professional experience, demonstrated preparation for the intended program, and compatibility with CEU’s mission:
Funding and Scholarship Opportunities at CEU
CEU offers various scholarship and financial aid options, including:
- CEU Excellence Scholarship: Covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend of €1,000 for living costs
- CEU Distinction Scholarship: Covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend of €750
- CEU Scholarship: Covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend of €500
- CEU Partial Scholarship: Covers part of the tuition fee (€300/month)
There are also external scholarships, paid internships, teaching assistantships, and student work opportunities available.
Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid by the priority deadline to increase chances of receiving support.
Programs Offered at CEU
CEU offers over 50 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines:
Master’s Degrees
- One-year programs in Comparative History, Gender Studies, Human Rights, International Relations, Nationalism Studies, Philosophy, etc.
- Two-year programs in Cultural Heritage, Critical Gender Studies, Economics, Environmental Sciences, International Relations, Public Policy, etc.
Doctoral Programs
- Cognitive Science
- Economics
- Environmental Sciences and Policy
- Gender Studies
- History
- Legal Studies
- Medieval Studies
- Network Science
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Sociology and Social Anthropology
CEU also offers advanced certificates and executive education.
Vibrant Campus Life in Vienna
CEU is located in Vienna, consistently ranked the world’s most livable city. The campus is based in Vienna’s multicultural 10th district, close to cafes, restaurants, shops, and parks.
CEU students hail from over 100 countries and participate in various social, sports, and cultural activities together.
Notable aspects of student life include:
- Clubs: Debating, yoga, dance, choir, board games, and more
- Events: Movie nights, cultural excursions, balls, conferences
- Facilities: Library, IT labs, print shop, gym, basketball/volleyball courts
CEU dormitories also organize social events for residents. The CEU Student Center assists students with housing, health insurance, residence permits, and general advising.
How to Apply to CEU
CEU has an online application system for all programs. Typical application components include:
- Online application form
- Proof of qualifications
- CV/Resume
- Written statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- English test scores
- Additional program-specific requirements
CEU has three application deadlines per year – early, priority, and final. Applying by the earlier deadlines increases chances of admission and financial aid. The CEU Admissions Office guides applicants through the entire process, from application to acceptance and enrollment.
Reach out with any questions!
Applying to CEU opens doors to world-class graduate education focused on social sciences and humanities. The university offers globally recognized degrees, strong funding opportunities, research-driven and interdisciplinary academics, and an international campus environment in Vienna.
We encourage prospective students to explore CEU’s programs and apply today to achieve their academic and professional ambitions.
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