The application

Application and Selection Process – Master’s Degree Program in “International Relations” (ZIS)

Whether it’s climate change, migration, or violent conflicts, global challenges require multilateral solutions. In our Master’s degree program, we offer an interdisciplinary education that provides in-depth methodological and specialized knowledge in the disciplines of international law, international politics, and international economics (economics) through three areas of specialization. At the core of the program are required courses in the disciplines of each specialization track, which students take alongside majors in those fields. This ensures that our students receive an academic education at the highest professional level. In addition, there is a broad range of required-elective courses in which students can specialize in specific topics, as well as uniquely interdisciplinary courses jointly offered by the participating disciplines. The opportunity to study abroad—for example, at one of our numerous partner universities—is an integral part of the program.

© Valentina Frezzella

Valentina Frezzella, Master 2021

For me, the IB Master's degree with the core areas of international politics and international law combines exactly my interests after my Bachelor's degree at the Federal Foreign Office. The study program can be individually tailored, so that I have been able to set my focus over the last few years in the way that best suits me and my professional career. Learn more

© Paul Saupe

Paul Saupe, MA 2021

In the 21st century, we are facing challenges on an unprecedented scale, which can only be solved through international cooperation. As I have always wanted to learn how to deal with the causes and possible solutions to global problems in a scientifically sound way, I applied for the Master's in International Relations. Learn more

© Johannes Köhr

Johannes Köhr, MA 2021

In addition to the teaching content, the IB degree program also offers the perfect framework for exploring the world at the same time. Learn more

© Thea Gaus

Thea Gaus, MA 2019

I like the fact that the courses deal with current topics in a truly interdisciplinary way. As a result, you learn to take a broad perspective and are broadly positioned after graduation. The team spirit within the IB community should also not be underestimated: the positive environment with intelligent and critically thinking people really enriches everyone. Learn more

© Frederic Simon

Frederic Simon, MA 2019

By deciding to do a Master's degree after a year in the profession, I did everything right with IB: In my specialization, international law problems are combined with political issues and you are prepared for international work. In addition, the team spirit is great: after a short time, we have become a big group of friends where everyone is helped! Learn more

© Max L. Müller

Max Lukas Müller, MA 2019

I am studying in the International Order specialization: the course offers a deep and comprehensive education. You should have a certain willingness to work, but performance is rewarded in the end and all requirements are fair in any case! Additionally, even after the first semester, you can say that you've made friends for life! Learn more

© Thomas Börner

Thomas Börner, MA 2018

I decided to do a Master's in IB because I want to know how the world works and which key points are decisive for important decisions. In my specialization, you learn to understand the links between business and politics. In addition, the small year groups create a special atmosphere in which you can master everyday challenges together! Learn more

© ©Frederik Abel

Frederik Abel, MA 2016

I chose IB in Dresden mainly because of its interdisciplinary and international nature: the subjects are closely linked and taught using the latest examples. I also like the composition of the IB students: They are internationals or have gained experience abroad. You work with bright minds from a wide range of disciplines, all in all the perfect mix. Learn more

The goal of our program is to prepare students for careers in academia, international organizations, NGOs, government ministries, or the private sector. A prerequisite for successful completion of the program is an openness to both quantitative and qualitative research methods, although the emphasis varies across disciplines.

Interested?

Then take part in our aptitude assessment process. This assessment allows us to get to know you and ensure that you are a good fit for the program and will be able to study successfully. After successfully passing the aptitude assessment, you must submit a formal online application through the Admissions Office or the International Office at TU Dresden.

The master’s degree program in “International Relations” is an interdisciplinary degree program that combines the fields of international politics, international law, and international economics. Admission to the program is determined through an aptitude assessment process.

General Information

• Start of Studies: Only possible in the winter semester.
• Program scope: 120 credit points (LP), modular structure.
• Specializations:
  • Global Political Economy (GPOE) – Core subjects: International Politics and International Economics
  • International Order and Institutions (IO) – Core subjects: International Politics and International Law
  • International Law and Economics (ILE) – Core subjects: International Law and International Economics
• Note: Proof of eligibility is valid for two years.

Application Process

Step 1 – Eligibility Assessment

© ZIS

Requirements

• A bachelor’s, master’s, or comparable degree program in economics, political science, or law with a focus on the aforementioned disciplines.
• Evidence of solid methodological and subject-specific knowledge in at least one of the two core subjects of the chosen specialization (detailed transcript).
• English proficiency corresponding to Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Proof must be provided in the form of transcripts or language certificates. These may include, in particular:
  - a high school diploma or equivalent certifying eligibility for university admission, including proof of
  English as a foreign language through 12th grade (with level indicated according to the CEFR)
  - a diploma for a university degree completed entirely in English
  university degree
  - a language proficiency certificate indicating level B2, for example
  TOEFL iBT 4.0, UNIcert II, FCE.

Required Documents

• Application for assessment of eligibility, specifying the chosen area of specialization.
• A simple copy of the diploma for the first university degree, including a transcript or a certificate confirming completion of 80% of the coursework with a current grade report.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Statement of purpose (max. 2 pages).
• Resume in table format.

The Suitability Assessment Interview

Invitations to the interview will be sent out no later than one week before the interviews begin, following a review of your application materials. You will find your specific appointment time on the password-protected page “Aptitude Assessment Process 2026.” This page will be made available only after the invitations have been sent out. The interviews will take place between June 22 and 30, 2026.

Topics covered in the interview: Motivation, prior subject-specific knowledge, academic interests, and, if applicable, current issues in international relations.

Procedure

1. Submit all required documents by May 31, 2026, via email to .

Please note:
International applicants and German applicants with a foreign degree must apply via Uni-Assist by May 31, 2026, and upload all documents (including proof of German language proficiency) there.

2. Invitation to an aptitude assessment interview ( interview dates: June 22–30, 2026). Notifications regarding aptitude will be sent via email by calendar week 28.

Your application will only be successful if you are deemed eligible based on the outcome of the eligibility assessment interview. The regulations and criteria relevant to the aptitude assessment procedure can be found in the Regulations on the Assessment of Aptitude for the Consecutive Master’s Program in International Relations (Aptitude Assessment Regulations for International Relations/Master’s)

Proof of eligibility is valid for two years.

Areas of Specialization and Required Prerequisites

Step 2 – Online Application

© ZIS

Procedure

Only applicants who have received a positive decision in the aptitude assessment process may apply.

Properly Formatted Online Application:

• German applicants and applicants with a German education via Selma
• International applicants and German applicants with a foreign degree must have already submitted their application via Uni-Assist by May 31.

You can use the application guide to be redirected to the appropriate application portal.

Application period:

• German applicants and applicants educated in Germany: June 1 through September 15, 2026
• International applicants and German applicants with foreign degrees: by May 31, 2026

Deadlines and Dates

Contact / Point of Contact

Center for International Studies (ZIS)
TUD Dresden University of Technology
Email: sekretariat.zis@tu-dresden.de
Phone: +49 351 463-36937