Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the MACS and the IMACC programme?

The MACS and IMACC Programmes share a similar number of credits (120 ECTs) and both have a duration of 2 years. However, MACS and IMACC differ in content and focus. The MACS Programme provides a holistic perspective of anti-corruption from all disciplines and has a stronger focus on addressing public sector corruption, whereas the IMACC is more focused on compliance and Collective Action in the private sector.

Although both programmes share similar module content at the start, they specialize as the studies progress, from Module 6, either in anti-corruption in general or anti-corruption compliance.

What is the hybrid format? What is the online format?

The hybrid format is a combination of face-to-face learning in the classroom with online learning that students complete outside of the classroom. The hybrid format includes at least one module studied in person face-to-face at IACA Campus or any other designated location, which will be communicated before the module begins. The online format allows students to study and attend lectures virtually, from anywhere in the world. The online format usually consists of pre-recorded lessons or live lectures, interactive and off-line tests, synchronous and asynchronous discussions.

Both the MACS and IMACC Programmes are offered in either Hybrid or Online format, subject to student numbers enroled in each format.

How much is the programme fee?

The programme fee covers teaching, teaching materials and ICT, supervision and thesis defence. The fee depends on the format. The programme fee for the hybrid format is EUR

22.400 and that for the online format is EUR 17.900. If you are not clear what the difference between hybrid and online formats is, please review the previous question on Hybrid and Online formats.

Are there any additional costs to be paid other than the programme fee?

You may incur additional costs for your studies such as medical insurance, subsistence, travel and accommodation to the hybrid module and to attend the graduation ceremony. Moreover, some reading materials may need to be paid for by the student, which will be communicated accordingly. Please see the document Projected Programme Costs for 2025, in the fees section, for additional costs that are not covered by the programme tuition fee. All additional costs are the sole responsibility of the student.

Am I eligible for a programme fee discount?

Under the Preferential Treatment Scheme for IACA Parties contributing to the general budget of the organization, IACA offers discounts on the programme fees to nationals of the contributing Parties. Find out if you are eligible for a discount in the Fees Discount section of the webpage.

IACA also offers a 15% discount on the programme fee to all registered alumni of eligible training and programmes.

If your country is not listed, and you are not an IACA alumni, please be advised that you are not eligible for any discount.

Please note that IACA reserves the right to revoke, modify and suspend the discount scheme at any time. For more information on discounts please visit either the MACS or IMACC webpage, fees and discounts section.

Can I pay the fee in instalments?

Fees can be paid in two equal instalments before programme start and mid-programme. For more information on the payment deadlines please review the projected programme costs for 2025 studies.

Can I be exempted from paying the application fee / Can my application fee be waived?

The standard non-refundable application fee is EUR 100. No applicant is exempted, under any condition whatsoever, from paying the application fee. However, some applicants may be eligible for a 50% discount on the application fee. Visit our Fees Discount webpage section for more information. Requests for waiving the application fee on the basis of financial hardship, etc., will not be considered.

Are there any scholarships?

IACA may offer a limited number of scholarships (partial and full) on a merit-needs basis. Please visit our scholarships section for detailed information on the available scholarships, eligibility and for the application process.

Please make sure that you are eligible for a scholarship before submitting your scholarship application. All scholarship candidates will be nvited for an interview by IACA. Scholarship decisions by IACA are final.

How do I pay the application fee?

IACA offers the following payment method options: bank transfer and online payment via transfer mate. Please find more information here: https://www.iaca.int/who-we-are/about- us/payment-options.html

Who can I contact if I have questions or difficulties with payment of the application fee?

You may contact either the admissions@iaca.int or our finance team at finance@iaca.int

How do I prove my English Language Proficiency?

The language of instruction at IACA is English. All applicants must be fluent in both spoken and written English to effectively participate in the programme.

Applicants whose mother tongue is not English are required to provide proof of their English proficiency through any of the following means:

1. Provide any of the following English test results that are under two years old as of the date of application:

   
   

   • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

     Overall score required: ▪ Paper-based: 600 Computer-based: 250 Internet- based: 100

     IACA’s institutional TOEFL code is 3052

   • IELTS test

     Overall score required: 7.0 • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English 3 o

     The overall score required: 185 – 190, no less than 176 in each category

2. Should have attained an academic degree from an internationally recognized university where English was the language of instruction – Please mention in Personal Statement

3. Provide a letter or statement from your tertiary institution confirming that you have completed at least two years of full-time education in English.

4. Provide proof of having at least two years of full-time employment in an organization or company where English was the working language. A letter from the employer may be attached as proof.

IACA reserves the right to invite an applicant to an interview to verify or assess their English language proficiency.

Native English speakers are not required to provide any proof.

Where can I find detailed documents and instructions for application?

Our application guidelines (MACS guidelines and IMACC guidelines) provides you with detailed instructions on what documents to submit, in what format and how to make the online application on our platform.

How and when will I receive an official decision notification about my application for admission?

You will receive a notification / offer email when a decision is ready for you, typically three to four weeks after submitting your application. Please make sure you provide a functional email in the application, for this purpose.

Who should write my letters of recommendation?

Your letters of recommendation should be written by professors, work supervisors and associates who know you well and can attest to your work and/or academic standing.

Does the Admissions Office audit or verify application material?

Yes. The Admissions Office staff conduct random audits of application information from both applicants and admitted students. Audited information includes, but is not limited to, letters of recommendation, work employers, and academic records. Applicants are advised to submit authentic documents and honest information.

Does IACA provide Visa support?

All students enrolled in the Hybrid format will receive a visa support letter. A similar letter will be issued to those attending the graduation ceremony. However, IACA has no influence on the visa decision by the Austrian authorities. Students are responsible for their visa applications and its success.

Can I visit IACA during my studies?

Yes, students may visit IACA during the course of their studies. However, please consult and coordinate with the Academic Programmes team before embarking on your visit.

I need technical support with the application.

If you are experiencing a technical issue with the application, we suggest trying a different browser, such as Google Chrome or Firefox.

If you continue to experience issues, please email admissions@iaca.int.

Can I defer an offer of admission to a later date?

With permission from the Admissions Office, you may defer your enrollment for one year. To begin the process of requesting a deferral, provide a written request to the admissions office.

I still need to speak to the Admissions Office; how do I reach out?

If you’d like to find out more about learning with IACA, send an email or schedule a call.