F.A.Q.

Who can apply?

To apply, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Successful completion of an academic degree of higher education (four-year BA degree, Specialist Diploma, or studying in the final year of a BA program) in the field of social sciences, humanities, law, sociology, international relations, political science or other equivalent subjects;
  • Citizenship of one of the following countries: Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or of any other OSCE participating State;
  • Demonstrated professional and/or research interest in human rights, sustainability and democratization in Central Asia.
  • Advanced level of English (at least 6.5 on the IELTS or 90 on the TOEFL);

*if you have IELTS or TOEFL certificate, you can upload it, and if not, then shortlisted candidates who did not submit the certificate will have to take the English language test of the OSCE Academy

The MAHRS programme includes both compulsory and elective courses, covering key areas of human rights and sustainability. The programme comprises a minimum of 120 ECTS, ensuring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education.

The teaching staff consists of distinguished professionals and academics from various partner institutions and regional human rights bodies.

MA in Human Rights and Sustainability (MAHRS) is full-time.

All candidates who have completed their coursework but are awaiting their official diplomas by the start of the MAHRS programme in September are eligible to apply. Applicants must submit an official letter from their university, along with their academic transcript, to the Admissions Committee. Once the official diploma and final transcript are issued, copies must be provided to the committee without delay.

English is the official working language of the MAHRS programme.

Due to the rigorous nature of the programme, balancing coursework with employment is not practical. The programme’s intensity makes it difficult to engage in any income-generating activities alongside studies. However, students receive a scholarship to support their academic journey.

No, there is no tuition fee. All admitted students receive a scholarship that covers their studies.

Yes, the MAHRS programme provides a scholarship, which includes:

  • Tuition-free education
  • A monthly stipend of 450 EUR
  • Round-trip travel to and from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (economy class) *
  • Basic medical insurance (excluding Kyrgyzstani citizens)
  • Funded internship opportunities in Europe (available on a competitive basis)