Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of our most common questions which we have given answers to.
What are the minimum entry requirements for the degree programmes offered?
Normally a first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent (for example a USA GPA score of 3.3 or above). However each application is assessed on its individual merits and entry requirements maybe modified in light of professional experience and where the applicant can demonstrate a sustained practical interest in the international field.
We welcome applications from academically strong individuals from a wide variety of fields and backgrounds. However it is not necessary to have a first degree in a discipline directly related to the programme.
When should I apply for the progamme?
You can apply for the course at any time prior to starting. We would always encourage that you apply as early as possible in the academic year to allow time to iron-out any problems with your applicaiton.
If you are in the final year of an undergraduate degree, there is no need to wait until you receive your results to apply. In such cases, where you meet the other requirements for the course, we will typically offer you a place conditional on the final classification of your undergraduate degree.
How much do your programmes cost?
Please refer to the fees section of the SOAS Website for the latest information about full and part-time fees.
What is the standard of English required for acceptance on your programmes?
Most overseas non-native English speakers will have to submit evidence of English Language proficiency with their application. Details of the standard expected and of the courses available for those whose language skills fall slightly below this standard please follow this link.
I have already completed a programme of study in English. Do I still have to supply evidence of language proficiency in English?
If you are considered to have sufficient academic experience in an English-speaking you can apply to be exempt from having to provide English language test evidence. In these cases an assessment will be made based on any relevant evidence which may be contained in the application, e.g. evidence of substantial recent university study in an English-speaking country.
What time do the lectures and tutorials start?
Most of our lectures are scheduled to begin at 6pm to facilitate attendance by those who are in work. However please note that due to timetabling constraints lectures for some CISD courses may take place earlier in the day. Please note that the practical exercises usually take place at the weekend.
What is an 'elective' course?
An elective course is a course chosen from outside your main programme of study. All of the programmes run by CISD give students the option of doing an elective course. You can choose a course from a wide range of courses run by SOAS including courses in politics, development studies, economics, media studies, area studies and languages.
Do elective courses run in the evenings?
Elective courses will normally run during the day so you must contact the relevant faculty or department to find the time.
Can I pay the fees by instalment?
No, the fees must be paid in full either at or by enrolment. Please see the Fees Office webpage for methods of payment.
Do you offer any scholarships or busaries?
The a full list of scholarships and bursaries open to students wishing to study at SOAS on the SOAS website.
What is the difference between the MA (Masters) and Post-graduate diploma?
The only difference between the two programmes is that the Masters includes a 10,000 word dissertation to be submitted by September 15th of your final year of study. Otherwise in terms of content,cost, entry requirements and the criteria used to assess applications they are exactly the same. We would therefore always recomend that you apply for the Masters option.
Is it possible to work and do the programme full-time?
Although you may only have to attend the University one or two days a week. You must also consider the amount of time you will need to read and prepare for the next class. Ultimately this will vary between individuals. However in most cases we would recommend that those working full-time consider the option of doing the course part time over two or three years.
Is there a PhD programme at the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy?
No. Although we hope to introduce this at a future date we do not currently run any research degrees through the Centre.
Please see the Post Graduate Reasearch pages of the main SOAS Website for information about doing a PhD at SOAS.
Can I take a language course as an elective
There are a large number of language modules available to take as elective courses. Please see the web pages of the Faculty of Languages and Culture to see which courses are available as elective options.
Is it possible to start the course at a time other than September?
No, we only have a single intake in September.
Do you have a distance learning option?
No, at the moment we do not have a distance learning option, however this is something that we are actively looking into.