Frequently Asked Questions – MA Manuscript Cultures
We understand that navigating through the application and admission process can be a challenge. To make things easier for you, we have gathered responses to our frequently asked questions, categorised by topic. Simply choose your relevant topic below for quick reference. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, feel free to reach out to Merryl Rebello, Coordinator of the Graduate School.
Application process
The application process is a two-step procedure. It is crucial to complete both steps:
- Step one: submit your online application through the application portal STiNE, following the instructions provided below
- Step two: ensure you submit all the required documents via email separately
How does the online application work?
This is the website of the STiNE application portal: www.stine.uni-hamburg.de
- Please create an account by clicking on ‘Create Account’.
- After registering, you will receive access data (a one-time password) for your application account by e-mail.
- After having received your access data, please log in to the STiNE portal (using the link from the e-mail!)
- You are asked to change your initial password and choose a confidential question that only you can answer.
- Select the course ‘Manuscript Cultures’ and complete all sections of the application form. There are marginal notes with hints and explanations to help you.
- Check for completeness and submit your application.
- Save the PDF summary of your online application.
In addition to the online application, you have to submit documents via e-mail, see here
Where can I read more about the legal framework for applications?
The official application information for international MA programmes at UHH provided by the Campus Center can be found here:
Application documents
Which language certificates are accepted?
- IELTS (Academic); TOEFL (pbT, ibT and cbT); Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English; Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English; Pearson PTE Academic; TELC; TOEIC; UNIcert
- The level indicated has to be at least B2 according to the Common European Framework fo Refernces for Languages (CEFR) or equivalent
Alternative forms of proof may be submitted, but we cannot anticipate the decision about acceptance or rejection by the selection committee.
Examples:
- A letter from your university confirming that your undergraduate programme was taught exclusively in English can be accepted if English is one of the official languages of the country.
- An individual English test that has been taken at the language centre of your university can be accepted if all four key skills (reading, listening, writing, speaking) have been tested and the result is equivalent to level B2 or higher.
- We do not accept online self-assessment test results in which one or several of the four key skills have not been tested.
Please note:
- Native speakers of English need not submit a language proof.
- Knowledge of German is not required for our MA programme.
Can I submit my application documents in a language other than English?
All documents have to be submitted in English or German. The degree certificate(s) have to be submitted in a certified translation into English or German.
Eligibility
Can I apply for the MA programme if I have not received my undergraduate degree yet?
If you have completed your undergraduate studies and only the degree certificate is missing at the time of the application, you may apply with a transcript of records; please see the admission and application requirements outlined here.
It is not possible to apply for our MA programme if any exams of your undergraduate degree programme have not yet been taken, or if you have not submitted your Bachelor’s thesis yet. In this case, please consider applying next year.
Can I apply with an undergraduate degree in a discipline which is not listed among the subjects in the admission requirements, for example a natural science?
Yes, absolutely. The list of disciplines is exemplary, not exhaustive. Each application will be evaluated individually by the commission.
Please note: We cannot pre-assess any documents you email to us outside of the actual application process. In order to get a valid result, you have to apply with all your documents exactly as indicated on the website.
Admission procedure and timeline
When and how will I be notified of the result of my application?
The application period is 15 February to 31 March 2024.
Letters of acceptance/rejection will be published in your STiNE account on 23 May 2024.
You have seven days to accept the study offer, with an enrollment period from 23 May to 30 May 2024.
Living costs and scholarships
How much does it cost to attend the programme?
There are no tuition fees, but UHH charges a semester contribution of currently 332€ per semester, please see here:
How much does it cost to live as a student in Hamburg?
The costs of living in Hamburg are quite high! A student’s budget should be at least 900€ per month. A major part of this budget will be needed for accommodation.
For more detailed information, please see here:
https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en/campuscenter/campus-leben/finanzen.html
Does the CSMC offer scholarships?
During the application period, all candidates can apply for a 1-year qualifying fellowship of 934€ per month to support their studies, please see here:
https://www.csmc.uni-hamburg.de/study-at-csmc/master.html
Please note that the application requires submitting a second letter of motivation (in addition to the letter of motivation for studies, you need to submit another letter of motivation for the qualifying fellowship).
In particular, we encourage international students, students from weaker economic backgrounds, and first-generation students to apply.
Can I work during my studies?
Yes, generally this is possible, but there are significant limitations, please see here:
https://www.stwhh.de/en/study-financing/jobbing-during-your-studies