Applying to IMSISS (and considering MAPP) for 2027 — looking for insights from current students or alumni
Hi everyone,
I’ve been seriously looking into applying for IMSISS as my primary option for 2027, with MAPP as a secondary consideration, and I’d love to hear from anyone who’s gone through either program — especially IMSISS.
A bit of context: I have a background in sociology, humanitarian work, market research, and political work in Latin America, and I’m working toward a transition into international security and policy analysis.
A few things I’d appreciate input on:
On admissions: What do you think made your application stand out? Any advice on the SOP, recommendations, or how the committee weighs academic versus professional experience?
On the program: How would you describe the academic environment and the cohort? Did you end up liking your track, and would you choose it again? And looking back, did the degree actually open doors in security or policy careers?
On logistics: For those who came from outside Europe — how did the visa process go, and what caught you off guard? Separately, anything about housing or cost of living you wish you’d known before arriving?
On the Erasmus Mundus scholarship: If you received it, what do you think made your application competitive for the funding? And practically speaking — was the stipend enough, and were there financial things worth preparing for before you arrived?
For MAPP applicants or alumni: How did you experience the program’s orientation — more policy theory or applied work? And how has it translated career-wise?
Any insights are useful!
Thanks in advance.