Eligibility

Applications are open to:

International applicants
Local applicants
Transfer applicants (where applicable) – ( https://www.ibu.edu.mk/pages/students/student-transfer )
Third-cycle (PhD) studies in N. Macedonia correspond to doctoral level studies and are organized in accordance with the Bologna Process. They are based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and aligned with Level 8 of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

At the International Balkan University, third-cycle (PhD) or doctoral degree programs are 180 ECTS (3-years). They are research-oriented and focus on the development of advanced scientific competences and independent research skills, based on supervised research as well as the preparation and defense of a doctoral dissertation, within six years of registration.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

· Completion of second-cycle studies with at least 300 ECTS or the international equivalent

· Minimum average grade of 8.00 (out of 10.00) in both first and second cycle studies

· Completion of previous higher education in the same or a related scientific field to the chosen doctoral study program

· Language proficiency (details provided in the Language Requirements section)

Ranking Criteria

Due to limited quota, applicants for Doctoral programs are ranked based on a comprehensive evaluation of the following criteria:

· Work Experience: Relevant professional experience in the same or a related field, demonstrating the practical application of knowledge and skills.

· Scientific Publications and Conference Participation: Research output and participation in international conferences, demonstrating research ability and academic engagement.

· Master's Thesis: Quality and relevance of the Master’s thesis, reflecting research competence and analytical skills, and understanding of advanced concepts within their field of study.

· Academic Performance: Overall GPA from both first-cycle and second-cycle studies.

These criteria are weighed and assessed in line with the specific requirements of the doctoral program. The evaluation process aims to identify candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance, research potential, relevant professional experience, and commitment to advancing knowledge in their field.

Language Requirements

To ensure academic success, all applicants must demonstrate the language skills necessary to participate in lectures, complete assignments, and pass examinations.

Third-cycle programs are taught entirely in English, apart from the Turkish Language and Literature program which is taught in Turkish.

Applicants for English-taught programs must provide proof of proficiency through one of the following methods:

1. Standardized Test: A valid TOEFL or IELTS certificate (issued within the last two years).

2. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Document: An official document from your previous institution confirming English as the language of instruction (issued within the last two years). With an MOI you might still need to take a speaking exam.

3. University English Exam: A proficiency test administered by our Language School.

October Intake: Exam held in September.

Mid-year Intake: Exam held in January/February.

English proficiency is required at a minimum B2 CEFR level overall, while a minimum C1 CEFR level is required for the doctoral program in English Language Teaching.

If third-cycle students do not pass the language exam with the minimum required scores above, they can choose to attend the English Language Preparatory Program at our Language School [add hyperlink to ELS - https://www.ibu.edu.mk/pages/academic/language-school ] before beginning their degree studies.

Application Steps

Submit your online application via: https://hello.ibu.edu.mk/apply

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email with your login details for the application portal.

Log in to the application portal and upload the required documents via: https://hello.ibu.edu.mk/Account/
A list of required documents is available here: ( https://www.ibu.edu.mk/pages/admission/doctoral/details/required-documentation ) and a helpful video tutorial is available on the left side of the application portal.

Application Status:

· After submitting your application, you can track its status through the portal. The status will appear as Pending while your application is being processed. Once the review is complete, the status will change to Checked, and you will receive an email with the admission decision and further instructions.

IMPORTANT:

· Incomplete or inaccurate applications are not considered.

· The University reserves the right to request additional documents.

· Admission requirements and procedures vary by program.

· Submission of an application does not guarantee admission.

For further information regarding admission, please consult the FAQs available at the following link: https://ibu.edu.mk/faq