You're Already at FU - Can You Switch to ISME?
Maybe you discovered ISME after starting another program, or maybe you're realizing your current master's isn't quite right. Either way: yes, you can apply to ISME, but there's no internal shortcut.
The reality: ISME has restricted admission (Numerus Clausus). Being enrolled at FU—even in the same department—doesn't give you automatic access or preferential treatment. Every applicant goes through the same competitive ranking process.
How It Actually Works
The admission process:
- Apply in April/May for winter semester enrollment
- You apply based on your bachelor's degree (not your current master's enrollment)
- All applications are ranked by the point system (see Admissions page)
- Top 30 ranked applicants get admitted
- No separate quota for internal FU students
This means: A student applying from Jordan with a strong bachelor's and work experience might rank higher than an FU student with weaker credentials. It's purely merit-based.
Making Your Current Enrollment Work for You
If you're in another master's program at FU (especially in History & Cultural Studies), use this time strategically:
1. Take ISME courses now
Many ISME courses accept students from related programs. This:
- Lets you test if ISME is really what you want
- Builds relationships with ISME faculty
- Gives you content for a stronger motivation letter
- Means less coursework if you get admitted
How: Check with individual instructors and your current program coordinator about enrollment permissions.
2. Build transferable coursework
Take modules in your current program that align with ISME content. If admitted later, these might transfer and let you enter a higher semester.
Strategy: Document everything—syllabi, readings, assignments. Makes credit transfer easier later.
3. Consider applying for a higher semester
If you've completed 30+ ECTS of ISME-relevant work, apply for 2nd or 3rd semester instead of starting over.
Requirements:
- 30 ECTS = apply for 2nd semester
- 60 ECTS = apply for 3rd semester
- Must be equivalent to ISME module content
The Credit Transfer Reality
Important: We can only evaluate credit transfers after you're admitted. We can't guarantee in advance which modules will transfer.
What this means: Taking ISME-adjacent courses now is strategic, but there's some risk. If you don't get admitted, that coursework stays in your current program. If you do get admitted, some (not necessarily all) might transfer.
Our advice: Focus on courses that genuinely interest you and strengthen your ISME application—don't just take things hoping they'll transfer.
Your Timeline
Now: Take ISME or ISME-adjacent courses in your current program
April/May: Apply to ISME through regular admissions
July/August: Find out if you're admitted
If admitted:
- We evaluate which credits transfer
- You enroll in ISME for winter semester
- You continue in the semester level appropriate to your transferred credits
If not admitted:
- Your current program continues
- You can reapply next year with a stronger profile
Questions about your specific situation? isme@geschkult.fu-berlin.de
We can't guarantee admission, but we can help you strategize.
