FAQ
The purpose of this FAQ is to answer questions that applicants ask most often. For detailed information about program requirements (for example, classes that students must take, examinations, dissertation writing, etc.) please see the Program Details section.
- What is the program, and what is it not?
- How much does it cost?
- How does the admissions process work?
- What background do "typical" students have?
- How does my degree affect admission?
- What level of English should I have?
- How many students are admitted? What are my chances?
- Can you tell me something more about recommendation letters?
- Can applicants from developed countries (such as EU) receive financial support?
- May students ask for a travel grant when coming to CERGE-EI?
- What if I will finish my Masters degree only after the application deadline?
- When does the academic year start?
1. What is the program, and what is it not?
The program is designed to offer a high level of education in theoretical and applied economics. Although some CERGE-EI graduates move into the private sector after graduation, CERGE-EI offers degrees in Economics as a science. Study at CERGE-EI should not be confused with obtaining an MBA degree.
The tuition for an academic year is 12,000 EUR. Most students from transition and emerging economies are, however receive a full tuition waiver. In addition, Most students (especially those with a previous MA degree or an exceptionally strong academic record) also receive stipends to cover living expenses. See Tuition for more details.
3. How does the admissions process work?
The application process can result in two positive outcomes. Some students are admitted directly into the PhD program. Others are invited to attend a two-month long semester that runs from late June to late August and offers instruction in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Mathematics. Based on a candidate’s performance in these three subjects and on an English academic writing exam, final admissions decisions will be made for this group.
Direct admission is typically offered to students with a Masters degree in Economics and an exceptionally strong profile such that they have received an invitation to attend competing high-quality doctoral programs. Admissions decisions are typically sent in late March or early April.
All necessary confirmations for students who need a visa are sent in April so that they can apply for their visa as soon as possible. See Practical Information for more details.
4. What background do "typical" students have?
A previous education in economics is welcomed, though not required. Our students come from a number of academic backgrounds, most typically from the fields of mathematics, economics, or technology.
5. How does my degree affect admission?
Applicants are expected to hold at least a Masters degree or its equivalent, or be expected to complete the Masters degree by June of the year when they are applying.
Students who have only a Bachelors degree may also consider applying to the Joint Masters in Economics program. Students may apply to both the PhD and JME programs simultaneously to maximize their chances of acceptance.
Please note that your degree needs to be nostrified in the Czech Republic – the nostrification decision depends on the educational system of the country where the degree was earned and on the specific university. Please check this with us when applying for the MA/PhD program.
6. What level of English should I have?
We strongly encourage you to submit results from any certified English exam (such as TOEFL, Cambridge Exams, IELTS, etc). This may increase your chances in the admission process (however, it is not an obligatory attachment of the application form).
The language of instruction at CERGE-EI is English, so you will be expected to read, write, understand, and speak English from the beginning. CERGE-EI's Academic Skills Center devotes its considerable expertise to helping all students, including native speakers, develop the unique skills required to be an effective scholarly communicator and presenter.
7. How many students are admitted? What are my chances?
We usually we receive about 250 application forms each year. Although it varies from year to year, typically about between 10 and 15 students are offered direct admission to the PhD program and an additional 60 students are invited to the Preparatory semester. From this latter group, approximately 30 are eventually admitted to the program.
8. Can you tell me something more about the recommendation letters?
You need at least two letters of recommendation from people familiar with your academic background. Letters from others, such as community leaders who cannot speak directly to your academic abilities will not increase your chances for admission.
9. Can applicants from developed countries (such as EU) receive financial support?
Yes, applicants from developed countries may receive financial support. CERGE-EI has some scholarships provided to students from particular countries or regions, but others are based solely on academic promise and performance.
10. May students ask for a travel grant when coming to CERGE-EI?
This depends on available funds. Financial support for travel costs may not be guaranteed each year.
11. What if I will finish my degree only after the application deadline?
You may apply as well, specifying your expected graduation date. Final admission, however, would be conditional until submission of translated and certified copies of your diploma and transcript.
12. When does the academic year start?
The academic year typically begins in mid-September. Please note that late arrivals are strongly discouraged, as lectures begin from the first day. Late arrival may seriously impact your performance and exam results, and in the worst case may lead to expulsion from the program. Please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more details.
