Molly5000

Katrun, AU SIS will not be done going through applications and notifying people for a couple of weeks. No worries. Don't assume a rejection.

Georgetown, UMD, and AU SIS are not done. Anyone who tells you otherwise (unless it's the dept) is lying. Lots of fake results throughout the cycle posted.

I'd argue though that US programs are quant heavy, and European ones are not. I agree that micro and macro economics courses are a must, but you certainly don't need a graduate program to take those. Also, as someone who has worked internationally, depending on the NGO, IGO--quant just isn't going to matter too much. They just want to know you can do the job and see an advanced degree by your name. Seriously.

AnotherGradHopeful, Beyond GRE scores and GPAs--what's your background? It seems to me it's critical to have overseas experience/language training for IR. Do you know if you really want a career in academia? or something IR related? Is there a way you can gain some experience/publish something IR related that fits your interests/talents? Reading through old SOPs, it seems to me a lot of applicants don't seem clearly focused or have a passionate direction with the research they want to do. I think if you figure that out, and focus on that goal, you could reapply again and do well. Maybe it won't be next cycle though, maybe it will be in a year after you've explored that more. Don't get discouraged. In general, masters programs are cash cows. They accept as many good enough candidates as possible (so chances are, you'll get into lots of them if that is what you decide to do). Funding is not at all common--it is very much the exception. But, as you noted, many of these programs are policy oriented and they are very expensive. They prepare students for jobs that could lead them to a PhD after more experience/research in the field. Best of luck.

I'd want to know what your career goals are. If it's academia, absolutely don't do it. If it's international organization work--it may be a good fit.

Personal email from departments.

Both American and Georgetown are still reviewing applications. This is true despite rejections and waitlisting notices others have received. So, if you haven't received a rejection notice, your application is still under review. They will not be finished until the end of March.