One-year master's programme: selection criteria

The applicant’s prior academic record is subject to thorough evaluation, and the results achieved constitute critical criteria in the selection process for our prospective students.

Sciences Po requires a minimum undergraduate average grade. Applicants are required to indicate their grade average in the “Academic Background” section of their application file. For more information on countries that are not listed, please contact us.

An average grade meeting our prerequisites does not in itself guarantee your admission. The selection committee proceeds to a holistic evaluation of your file. All the elements - CVs, personal statements, personal and professional experience, etc. - are taken into account during this process. On a very exceptional basis, it is also possible to offer admission to an applicant who has a slightly lower average but whose application includes professional assets which might compensate.

On the contrary, an excellent academic average that is not supported by any other element enhancing the profile could make for a weaker application. 

References are mandatory and carry a lot of weight in the assessment of your application. The choice of referees is essential. Before starting your application, please read carefully the instructions to select the right referees and contact them beforehand.

Please make sure you enter carefully all your professional experiences in the professional section of the online application (in addition to your CV). Otherwise, your application will be downgraded.

The adequacy between the applicant's career plans and the requested programme is evaluated in order to ensure that the prospective student stands to gain the most from it.

Applicants must express a precise idea of the professional field (or even position) that they are aiming for, what aspects of the programme they find attractive and explain how it fits their career plans.

In case of a career change, it is essential to clearly express your motivations.

It is also important that they demonstrate their willingness to be an integral part of the Sciences Po student community and our alumni circle.

More about the motivation letter 

Relevant professional experience is important.

Activities that demonstrate leadership capacity and overall responsibility are appreciated. Any personal experience attesting open-mindedness, curiosity or leadership is an asset (sports, arts, charity, international exposure, etc.).

Read our web page dedicated to unsuccessful applications, it will help you understand the mistakes you should avoid, and therefore what is expected.