The application

Application and selection procedure - Master's degree program "International Relations" (ZIS)

Whether 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 specialist knowledge in the disciplines of international law, international politics and international business (economics) in three specialization areas. Compulsory courses in the disciplines of the respective specialization form the core of the course, which are attended together with major students. This ensures that our students receive an academic education at the highest professional level. In addition, there is a broad catalog of compulsory elective courses in which students can specialize in certain topics, as well as original interdisciplinary courses that are jointly supported by the participating disciplines. The opportunity to study abroad, e.g. at one of our numerous partner universities, is an integral part of the course.

© 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 aim of our programme is to qualify students for a career in academia, international organizations, NGOs, ministries or business. A prerequisite for successful study is an openness to both quantitative and qualitative research methods, whereby the focus varies between the disciplines.

Are you interested?

Then take part in our aptitude assessment procedure. The aptitude assessment allows us to get to know you and ensure that you are a good fit for the study program and that you will study successfully. After the successful aptitude assessment, you must submit an online application in the correct form via the Admissions Office or International Office of TU Dresden.

The Master's degree program "International Relations" is an interdisciplinary degree program that combines the fields of international politics, international law and international business. The allocation of study places is based on an aptitude assessment procedure.

General information

• Start: Only possible in the winter semester.
• Scope of study: 120 credit points (CP), modular structure.
• Areas of specialization:
  • 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 procedure

Step 1 - Aptitude assessment procedure

© ZIS

Prerequisites

• Bachelor's, diploma or comparable degree in an economics, political science or law degree program with a focus on the disciplines mentioned.
• Proof of sound methodological and technical knowledge in at least one of the two core subjects of the chosen specialization (detailed overview of grades).
• English language skills corresponding to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Proof is provided by certificates or language certificates. In particular, this can be a certificate of general or subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification with English as a foreign language up to grade 12 (with a proven level according to the CEFR), a certificate of a university degree completed entirely in English or a language certificate with a proven level B2.

Required documents

• Application for aptitude assessment stating the chosen specialization.
• Simple copy of the certificate of the first university degree incl. transcript or certificate of 80% of the academic performance with current overview of grades.
• Proof of English language skills.
• Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages).
• Curriculum vitae in tabular form.

The aptitude assessment interview

You will be invited to the interview at least one week before the start of the interview after your documents have been checked. You will find your specific date password-protected on the aptitude assessment procedure 2026 page. This page will only be activated after the invitations have been sent out. The interviews will take place between June 22 and 30, 2026.

Contents of the interview: motivation, previous academic knowledge, interest in studying and, if applicable, current topics in international relations.

Procedure

1. submission of the complete documents by May 31, 2026 by e-mail 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 there.

2. invitation to an interview to determine aptitude (interview dates: June 22 to 30, 2026). Notifications of eligibility will be sent by email by calendar week 28.

A successful application is only possible if you receive proof of aptitude as a result of the aptitude assessment interview. The relevant provisions and criteria for the aptitude assessment procedure can be found in the aptitude assessment regulations for the Master's degree program "International Relations" by the Center for International Studies (ZIS) (please note the associated amendment statutes).

Proof of aptitude is valid for two years.

Areas of specialization and required prior knowledge

Step 2 -Online application

© ZIS

Procedure

Only applicants with a positive decision in the aptitude assessment procedure can apply.

Formal online application:

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

You can use the application switch to be forwarded to the appropriate application portal.

Application period:

• German applicants and foreign students: June 1 to September 15, 2026
• International applicants and German applicants with a foreign degree: until May 31, 2026

Deadlines and dates

Contact / contact person

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