The Institute also welcomes applicants who demonstrate a serious interest in the study of statecraft and international affairs, but do not need a degree or certificate. Students have the option of enrolling in courses for credit or as auditors (non-credit).
Auditing a course is a conditional privilege extended by the Institute: auditors are expected to attend class regularly but are not required to complete the coursework and do not receive a grade (or credit) for the course. Auditors are expected to restrict their activities in class to listening only. As a general principle, auditors may not participate in class discussion or ask questions unless specifically invited to do so by the professor. This restriction is intended to maximize the educational opportunity of for-credit students. Auditors who fail to abide by these rules may forfeit their right to continue attending the class. This policy applies to IWP Master's degree students as well as other auditors.
The Institute may also admit as auditors applicants who never earned an undergraduate degree but who demonstrate that they have compelling professional interests or educational requirements in international affairs as well as the requisite intellectual ability.
All applicants to the continuing education program must provide the following:
- A completed and signed
Application for Admission - Current Resume. Included should be your educational background (colleges and universities attended), work experience, and any special skills that may enhance your application credentials.
- Academic transcripts from all institutions attended. Transcripts in a language other than English must be accompanied by English translations.
- Essay on Educational and Professional Goals: "Why do you wish to study at the Institute and what do you hope to accomplish with your studies here?" (Typewritten, 250 words).
- TOEFL scores (for international students). See details at #11 under the M.A. application requirements listed above. Go to www.toefl.org for more information.
- Non-refundable $50 application fee.
Changing to Degree or Certificate Status
Current or prior continuing education students are not guaranteed admission into the degree or certificate programs. Students wishing to apply to the M.A. or certificate programs must follow respectively the M.A. or certificate application instructions which require the submission of additional and updated materials by certain deadlines. No more than four courses taken prior to the granting of degree status may be credited toward the degree, and only if the grades received are B or higher. An exception will be made for students who have taken courses prior to January 2001: all of their courses—with a B or better grade—may be credited toward the degree.
No more than two courses taken prior to admission into a certificate program may be credited toward any certificate, and only if the grades received are B or higher. An exception will be made for students who have taken courses prior to January 2001: all of their courses—with a B or better grade—may be credited toward a certificate.
Undergraduate Admissions Policy
The Institute normally does not accept undergraduate students except as auditors, and these students must have achieved senior status at their undergraduate institution. However, truly exceptional seniors may petition the Faculty Chairman for permission to enroll in individual courses on a for-credit basis. Such student
