APPLICATION PROCEDURE

REQUIREMENTS

1.  Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in the following fields:

• Psychology, 
• Linguistics, 
• Computer Science, 
• Biology 
• Cognitive Science 
• Integrative Social Sciences (with an empirical Bachelor's thesis),
• Philosophy (with a thesis in Philosophy of Mind)

Note: If the degree is earned from a university outside Germany, its equivalency will be evaluated by the International School of Graduate Studies (ISGS). Applicants with a Bachelor's degree in another related field (e.g. Social Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Philosophy, Language and Speech Pathology etc.) may also apply, but should clearly explain in their motivation letter how their previous studies and experience have suitably prepared them for a Master's program in Cognitive Science.

Important: Please note that we cannot provide pre-evaluations or confirm the suitability of your degree in advance. All academic backgrounds and supporting materials are reviewed exclusively by the Admissions Committee only after a formal application has been submitted through the portal. We kindly ask that you refrain from sending individual inquiries regarding eligibility. 

2. Applicants are expected to have:

• A solid foundation in basic descriptive and inferential statistics (e.g., regression, ANOVA).

Please make sure to highlight your background in statistics and empirical research in your motivation letter. Prior experience with empirical research (for example, through a class project or a Bachelor's thesis) is not required, though it is highly advantageous.

3. Evidence of English language proficiency at a minimum level of B2 (Upper Intermediate), as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), is required for all applicants. Details can be found here: applymsc.sowi.uni-kl.de/english-proficiency/

Accepted tests and minimum scores are:

• TOEFL iBT: 4.0+ (for tests taken from January 2026 onwards)
  • TOEFL iBT: 80+ (for tests taken before January 2026)
• IELTS: 6.0+

You are exempt from this requirement if you hold a high-school or university degree from one of the eligible countries  (e.g., USA, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, etc.). You can find the full list on the official application page linked above.

You are exempted from this requirement if your degree was taught in English (as specified on your transcript or in an official letter from your University).

APPLICATION DOCUMENTS

Detailed information on all necessary documents, including degree certificates, transcripts, language certificates, and additional supporting materials, can be found on the official application portal: applymsc.sowi.uni-kl.de

Important: All applicants are expected to submit a motivation letter as part of their application. A strong motivation letter is essential and it should clearly explain your academic background, relevant experience, and why you want to pursue the Master's program in Cognitive Science.

APPLICATION PORTAL

Applications can be submitted online → applymsc.sowi.uni-kl.de

2026 deadlines for international candidates (Bachelor's earned outside of Germany):

• for the winter semester: 23 February - April 30

2026 deadlines for candidates from Germany (Bachelor's earned in Germany):

• for the winter semester: 23 February - August 31

Note: You do not have all the necessary documents at hand for the online application? No Problem!

You can start your application by uploading the documents you already have and add the remaining ones later. Your application will only be considered once all required documents are submitted. We will notify you through the application portal if any additional documents are required. Applications will only be assessed after the application fee has been paid.

Applicants who have not yet received their Bachelor's diploma may still apply, provided they can submit the diploma by the time of enrollment. Missing credits are acceptable if completion is expected.

For questions about the application process, please contact the International School of Graduate Studies (ISGS): www.uni-kl.de/en/international/home/ or email applymsc(at)sowi.uni-kl.de

Full details on application and admission can be found on the ISGS application website: Master Programs in English (www.uni-kl.de/international/master/prospective-students/master-programs/master-programs-in-english/)

EVALUATION PROCEDURE

Each application will be evaluated by the Examination Board in an assessment procedure based on the documents provided. The Examination Board will then decide to either accept or reject the application for the current application period.

IMPORTANT DATES