Anne completed her Erasmus Mundus Master’s degree in Public Policy. She discovered this prestigious programme through extensive research on Online Result. We spoke with Anne about her personal journey, from navigating the application process to studying at top-tier international universities.
Tell us a bit about yourself. What is your name? How old are you? Where are you from?
I am Anne, a 25-year-old student originally from Cologne, Germany.
Where are you studying now? What university and programme are you enrolled in? What degree are you pursuing and how long is your programme?
My academic journey began with two years of classical singing studies in Maastricht, Netherlands. By my second year, I realized I wanted to broaden my expertise in Political Science, so I concurrently enrolled at the Open University in Hagen, Germany.
After a year of juggling both, I decided to pivot fully toward political sciences. Seeking a more collaborative and immersive academic environment, I enrolled in the Bachelor’s in Social Sciences program at the University of Cologne, which I successfully completed in two years.
In September 2015, I began the Erasmus Mundus Master in Public Policy. My first year was spent studying at the Central European University in Budapest before transitioning to the Institut Barcelona d'Estudis Internacionals for the 2016 academic year.
Why did you want to study abroad?
I have always been passionate about exploring diverse cultures and spending time abroad. When I discovered a programme that combined international experience with the opportunity to study at two prestigious European universities, I knew it was the perfect fit.
How did Online Result help you?
Online Result was instrumental in helping me navigate alternative academic paths. Even though my ultimate choice wasn't my initial one, the portal provided a clear overview of possibilities that helped me clarify my career goals.
What were your main priorities when choosing your university and your programme (e.g. academics, accommodation, university services & facilities, personal & professional development, city & culture, cost & funding, practicalities, social life)?
After reviewing various Erasmus Mundus Master’s options, I quickly committed to Public Policy. The application process allowed me to select from four distinct universities (CEU, IBEI, ISS, and the University of York), each offering specialized focus areas.
To specialize in Global Public Policy, I chose the track involving Budapest and Barcelona—which, conveniently, were my top-choice cities.
Was this your first study choice? What other universities did you consider? What was the main reason of your final choice?
This programme was my top priority, and it was the first application I submitted. I was also accepted into a Master’s programme at Sciences Po and explored other double-degree opportunities at Lazarski University in Poland and Kent in the UK.
The prospect of earning a double degree from globally recognized institutions made this programme an incredibly attractive and logical choice for my career.
Did you take a language test (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS) when applying for the programme? If yes, which one did you choose, why and how was your experience with it?
I sat for the IELTS exam, as it offered a convenient 13-day results turnaround. Contrary to the challenging reputation of the TOEFL, I found the IELTS manageable; the format felt similar to standard school examinations. I also found numerous helpful resources online to aid in my preparation.
The experience was positive and the supervisors were supportive. The only downside was the lack of breaks during the testing blocks, requiring me to maintain focus for 3 to 4 hours straight without leaving for the restroom, as doing so would have compromised my testing time.
What would be your advice for students from your country that consider to study abroad?
My advice is to start early! The scholarship and fellowship application deadlines for my programme were as early as January.
How did you finance your stay abroad and what financial advice would you give to future students?
Financing a Master's degree abroad can be challenging due to high tuition fees. I am currently considering a student loan or applying for additional scholarships if I do not secure the BAföG—the German governmental student financial aid.
Why would you (not) recommend this particular city / university? How would you rate your experience on a scale from zero to ten (0 – It was a total disaster, 10 – I had the time of my life)?
Having just started in Budapest, it is early to give a full review, but the environment is exceptionally welcoming. The university feels like a vibrant, focused academic hub within the beautiful city of Budapest, and the staff are clearly dedicated to student success.
While the academic load is demanding with significant reading and the production of frequent policy briefs, the topics are fascinating. Budapest itself is a fantastic city that I would highly recommend to any student.
Is there anything that you would do differently if you could do it over again?
Looking back, I would have committed to a program and started my search even earlier. Many scholarship deadlines, such as the DAAD, occurred in November—long before I had even finalized my application for the programme.
What was the biggest surprise in your study abroad adventure?
The biggest surprise has been the genuine kindness and support of my fellow students. Despite the programme's reputation for being highly competitive, the environment is incredibly collaborative and welcoming.
Were you inspired by Anne’s study abroad journey?
Never miss another updates!
Get the fastest exam results, recruitment news, and educational guides delivered directly to your phone.