Do I need to follow current affairs before studying politics?
Whether prior knowledge of current affairs is expected depends on the course. Following major national and international events can still be useful because politics courses may draw on contemporary examples when discussing institutions, policy, elections, international relations, or political ideas.
Key points
- Begin with reliable, varied sources and focus on understanding the main issues rather than memorising every detail.
- A basic grounding in history, government, economics, and social issues can also support your preparation.
- Political courses may teach relevant background knowledge from the beginning, so prior expertise is not necessarily expected.
Things to check
- Preparation expectations and any admissions or interview requirements depend on the specific course and institution; check its official information if applicable.