Academic Programs and Admission Requirements
Luiss Guido Carli University stands out for a distinctive educational philosophy and an international focus. Its research- and inquiry-based “Luiss Inquirer” model, comprehensive student services, and broad international opportunities—including dual degrees with prestigious universities—define its offer.
At the undergraduate level, the admissions process is two-track: EU citizens may receive direct admission based on test performance, while non-EU applicants are placed on a competitive ranking list. The university offers a wide portfolio, from an online Foundation Program for students with academic shortfalls to bachelor’s degrees, 1- and 2-year master’s programs, and executive education including a Flex MBA with international labs.
Over the last 20 years, a strategic transformation has moved Luiss from a regional institution to a triple-accredited, internationally recognized university. Partnerships with Sciences Po and George Washington University, small classes (10–30 students) within a student body of 11,000, and tuition set at €14,000 (undergraduate) and €17,000 (master’s) reflect this shift.
Career services are integrated into programs, and a Corporate Advisory Board creates a direct bridge to post-graduation job opportunities.
Programs
Foundation Program
Purpose: An entry program for students with an academic shortfall or only 11 years of schooling.
Structure: Two fully online semesters from October to April; an on-campus option in April for students who can obtain a visa.
Admissions & Outcomes: Applications open in March. Graduates earn “bonuses” that improve their ranking for entry to Luiss bachelor’s programs. Roughly one-third of about 100 students continue to a Luiss bachelor’s.
Graduate School (Master’s)
Structure: Typically two years; three semesters of coursework followed by a thesis. One-year and two-year options available.
International Focus: About 65% of instruction is in English; Management and Finance are standouts.
Flexible Pathways: For example, specializing in the final MBA semester to also earn an MS in Finance.
Executive Education
Full-Time MBA: For younger professionals with ~3 years of experience.
Flex MBA: Online program with in-person lab sessions in hubs such as Dubai and Amsterdam.
Executive MBA: Offered in Italian only.
Short-Term & Specialized
Summer & Winter Schools: Graduate Summer School; Winter Semester in January.
Study Tours: Three-day post-doctoral study visits.
3) Admissions Processes and Requirements
Undergraduate (EU vs Non-EU)
EU Citizens: Direct admission upon meeting minimum scores.
Non-EU Applicants: Minimums are a prerequisite; admission is via a ranking list.
Academic Background:
EU: Valid high school diploma
Non-EU: Valid diploma reflecting 12 years of schooling
Standardized Tests (both groups):
Luiss Test or SAT ≥ 1200 or ACT ≥ 25 or IB ≥ 36
Language: English B2 level
Timeline (Undergraduate):
Applications: October–April
Luiss Test Windows: Oct–Feb and Mar–May
Results: About 1 month after the test
Enrollment: Within 1 month of results
Note: Some bachelor’s programs may have deadlines such as May 6.
Master’s
Process: Same for EU and non-EU.
Requirements: Luiss test or GMAT/GRE.
Timing: Luiss online test in April; results in May; June registration.
Internationalization
Dual Degree Programs (highly competitive)
Sciences Po (France): ~400 applicants for 20 seats (5% admit).
George Washington University (USA): 50% participation among Luiss students; tuition remains the same, expenses borne by students.
Solvay Brussels School (Belgium/Germany): 10 seats in the “Luiss Belgium Frankfurt” track.
Exchanges & Short-Term Mobility
ACE Program: 15 students abroad selected from 30–35 applicants.
Winter Partners (mid-January):
Bergen (Norway) • Mannheim (Germany) • WU Vienna (Austria) • ESADE (Spain) • Toulouse School of Economics (France) • Hanken (Finland) • Tilburg (Netherlands) • Interest in partnership with St. Gallen.Doctoral: Joint PhD programs supported by the European Commission.
5) Institutional Profile and Data
Accreditation: Triple accreditation
Enrollment: 11,000 students
Classroom Environment: Classes of about 10–30 students
Tuition: €14,000 (Undergraduate) • €17,000 (Master’s)
Governance & Affiliations: Collaboration with Uni-Italia, the national education institute under the joint authority of the Ministries of Research/Education, Interior, and Foreign Affairs.