Q: May my recommender(s) send their letters via email?
A: No, your referee(s) must send their letters via the online system. If this is not possible for some reason then you should contact the Diploma Office.
Q: How will my referees know how to submit the letter of recommendation?
A: The referee will receive an email with the instructions on how to proceed with the recommendation as soon as you invite him/her through the online application.
Q: How do I know my referee received the email request?
A: Once you invite a referee through the online application an automatic invitation email will be sent to the referee and the date and time of your invitation will be shown on your overview page. You can re-send an invitation to your referee through the online application at any time. You can also ask them if they have received the request.
Q: What is the deadline for the recommendation?
A: Your referee will receive an invitation email with instructions on how to proceed with the recommendation including the deadline for the recommendation.
Q: Is TOEFL/IELTS mandatory?
A: No, it is not. The Postgraduate Diploma Programme is in English, so fluency in speaking and writing is an essential qualification. You should indicate your proficiency in English, providing in the online application the results of an approved language test, a document indicating that your degree is conducted in English, a self-certification for English native speakers, etc.
Q: What are the minimum GRE/TOEFL scores required for admission?
A: These are not required for admission.
Q: All courses are taught in English in my country. Am I still supposed to present a certificate of proficiency in English?
A: Yes, you should provide through the online application a document indicating that your degree is conducted in English.
Q: I have not completed my BSc and I don't have the official transcript. What should I do?
A: Follow the online application. You will be able to provide all the required information about your current status.
Q: I have a BSc in telecommunication/engineering/biology/natural science/chemistry.... but would like to apply for HE/MTH/CMP/ESP. Am I eligible?
A: You can always apply. The selection committee will then decide about your application. You can find all relevant information about expected background knowledge here.
Q: What do you mean by an "exceptionally good BSc"?
A: At least a first-class honours degree together with affirmation from your referees that you have performed exceptionally well.
Q: I have only a BSc degree. Am I eligible to apply?
A: Yes, you are.
Q: How can I be sure my application was received and complete?
A: As soon as you submit your online application (pressing the Submit button) it is "received" and complete. You can still edit your application until the deadline.
Q: Is it possible to upload/submit the documents after the deadline?
A: No
Q: When will a decision on my admission to the Postgraduate Diploma Programme be made?
A: Typically, you will be notified by May of the year in which the course begins, if not earlier.
Q: Can I attend with my own funds?
A: A limited number of qualified candidates who meet the same selection criteria as others may be allowed to attend the courses at their own cost. They must supply written evidence from a funding agency or a banking institution that funds are available for their entire year's stay, and are equal to those offered by the Centre.
Q: Can I apply to two different fields?
A: No, you cannot.
Q: What are the tuition fees?
A: There are no tuition fees.
Q: Is it possible to come with my spouse/family member?
A: The ICTP will not give support for spouses/family members in any form.
