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.