Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Application

I am an international student and need a visa

Please apply as early as possible! Admitted candidates are advised to book an appointment at the German Embassy as soon as possible to ensure that the visa is issued in time for the start of the programme in April or October. The EMEA staff is not able to provide any assistance in obtaining appointments.
Do I have to pay fees to submit my application to uni-assist?

Yes, uni-assist will charge fees. However, there are some exceptions. Please find details here
How can I apply?

You must apply via uni-assist. This is the only way to apply for the EMEA programme.

Please check your qualification and your interest carefully against the application requirements and the content of the programme.

A description of how to submit an application to uni-assist portal is available here.
Can I submit application documents after the application deadline?

No, this is not possible. You must submit your application in time. All documents must be available to uni-assist no later than 15 July (application for winter semester) or 15 January (application for summer semester).

Which modules are mandatory?

For EMEA students admitted to the programme from winter semester 2017 onwards, all modules in the study areas: "Introduction to the MENA region", "MENA Economics", "Specialisation", and "Master Thesis" are mandatory. Besides, part of the study area “Economic Analysis“ is also mandatory. Please see this section for more information.
Where can I find more information about a course of my interest?

Please check the study portal Marvin and the website of the respective research group for more information. Materials for the courses are often uploaded on the study platform Ilias.
Can I change a study module that I have already started?

There is a module commitment. The Examination Office has summarized the conditions under which you might be able to change a started module under "Commitment to modules" in the FAQ area.

How often can I repeat an exam?

Passed exams cannot be repeated. A failed exam can be repeated maximum three times.
Can I retake an exam earlier than scheduled?

An EMEA student who has accummulated a minimum of 90 ECTS credits and did not pass an exam in the second attempt can submit a request for an examination before the regularly scheduled date. Please contact the EMEA staff if would like to request an earlier exam date.
Due to hardship, I was not able to progress with my exams regularly. Are exceptions possible in such cases?

You should contact the EMEA staff in such cases. In cases of hardship, the team will try to find a solution.

How much time do I have to write my master’s thesis?

EMEA students must complete the master's thesis within 6 months (according to the latest study and examination regulation of February 2024).

The topic of the final thesis must be of such a nature that it can be completed within this designated time limit.
Can I extend the duration of the master's thesis?

Yes, in particular cases, upon justified application (e.g. due to unforeseen problems in obtaining literature or data), the Chairman of the Board of Examiners may extend the duration up to 20%.
What is the precondition to be admitted to the master’s thesis?

Students must have achieved at least 48 ECTS points in the study areas „Introduction to the MENA-Region“, „Economic Analysis“, „MENA Economics“, and "Specialisations".
Can I repeat the master’s thesis if I fail?

The thesis can be repeated only once. The Examination Board ensures that the candidate receives a new topic within six weeks after disclosure of the failing grade.

Do you offer accommodation to (international) students?

We are not able to book accommodation for arriving students. Several options regarding accommodation can be found on the housing section of the International Office.
How do I get to Marburg?

You can find information about how to reach Marburg by air or train on the travel section of the International Office.