• What is the program format?
  As depicted above, the MSIS program consists of 120 ECTS completed over four semesters. The curriculum includes four core modules (40 ECTS), three elective modules (30 ECTS), one module completed at a partner institution (10 ECTS), an internship (10 ECTS), and a master's thesis (30 ECTS). Some modules can be completed in one semester, while others (i.e. international law, research methods) take two semesters to complete due to the schedule of seminar offerings.

• What is a module?
  A module typically consists of two seminars, which are taught either through weekly classes or intensive "block" sessions that meet for 5–8 hours over one or more weekends. To complete a module, you must successfully pass both seminars. Seminars are assessed on a pass/fail basis and are recorded as bestanden (passed) or nicht bestanden (failed), rather than receiving a numerical grade.

• When should I register for classes?
  New students register for classes during Welcome Week in early October. The program will hold an information session to walk you through the registration process and ensure you have all the information you need to enroll in the correct courses for your first semester. 

• What is the university's attendance policy?
  According to local education laws, instructors are not allowed to take attendance during class sessions; however, regular attendance and active participation are highly encouraged.

• How is my academic performance assessed?
  Academic performance in the MSIS program is assessed in two stages.

Stage 1 - Lecture Period: Each seminar includes one required assignment (Studienleistung) such as an essay, presentation, policy paper, or exam. These assignments are completed during the lecture period and are graded on a pass/fail basis. You must successfully complete the required assignment to pass the seminar.

Stage 2 - Lecture-Free Period: After passing both seminars in a module, you become eligible to write the module's term paper (Modulabschlussprüfung). The term paper receives a numerical grade and is the only graded component for the module that appears on your academic transcript. You do not receive ECTS credit for the module until the corresponding term paper has been completed and graded.

• When do I write the term papers?

Unlike many graduate programs, you may choose when you write and submit your term papers. You may choose to either write the term paper 1) immediately in the proceeding lecture-free period, or 2) during the lecture-free period of a later semester.

However, postponing too many papers is strongly discouraged, as they can quickly accumulate, become difficult to manage, and ultimately delay your graduation. As a general guideline, students who wish to complete the program within two years are encouraged to finish at least six term papers (60 ECTS) during their first year. While this system may seem unusual to many international students, it provides considerable flexibility in planning your workload throughout the program.

• What grading scale does Uni Bonn use?
  The University of Bonn uses the standard German grading scale, which ranges from 1.0 (highest) to 5.0 (failing). Grades are awarded in increments of 0.3 (with 4.0 representing the minimum passing grade). In general, the scale is interpreted as follows:

1.0–1.5: Very Good (Sehr gut)

1.6–2.5: Good (Gut)

2.6–3.5: Satisfactory (Befriedigend)

3.6–4.0: Sufficient (Ausreichend)

4.1–5.0: Fail (Nicht bestanden)

Numerical grades are awarded only for module term papers and your master's thesis, and these are the grades that appear on your academic transcript.