You must submit an online application. Complete information about the application process can be found online at our How to Apply webpage and the Office of Graduate Admissions. There is detailed information about required tests, transcripts, supporting documents, and more.
- When are applications due?
All applications are due in early January for admission in Autumn Quarter of the same year. Please see Graduate Admissions for the exact date. Applications are not accepted at any other time, and admission is only granted for Autumn Quarter.
- What documents are required for the application?
MIP applicants are required to submit the following: statement of purpose, three (3) Letters of Recommendation, a writing sample, a resume, official GRE scores, the TOEFL (if applicable), and official transcripts. (Note: The GRE requirement is waived for Fall 2024 applicants).
For more information on each application requirement, see below:
- Transcripts (Academic Records)
- Department Application Requirements
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Additional Supporting Documents
- Application Fee
- May I submit an extra letter of reference or additional documents?
Yes, but please use your judgement to determine whether this is actually necessary (i.e., if an extra document offers information not already included in the three required letters of recommendation and/or the documents already submitted).
- Who should write my recommendation letters?
At least one letter of recommendation should be from your employer if you have work experience relevant to your MIP studies. In addition, you should provide at least one letter from a faculty member at the last school you attended as a full-time student (unless you have been out of school for more than five years).
- Can I get an application fee waiver?
The Office of Graduate Admissions manages the online application platform and the application fee. Fee waivers are available only to eligible applicants. Please explore the Fee Waiver Information.
- Is an interview part of the application process?
We do not interview applicants as part of the MIP admissions process. We ask that you treat your statement of purpose as an opportunity to "talk" to the Admissions Committee about the reason(s) why you are interested in the MIP program, and the field of international policy in general, and why this program is a good fit with your future goals.
- Can I check on the status of my application?
The online application system, which is called "CollegeNet," allows applicants to see the status of their application, including a checklist of required application components. Once the application deadline has passed, the MIP team will begin reviewing applications for completeness. It usually takes at least two weeks to review all applications. After that point, applicants can log into their accounts to check the status of their applications and see whether any items are missing.
- When will I be informed of the admissions decision?
The admissions committee will review applications during the month of February, and notification letters will be sent by email in early to mid-March. Please do not call the MIP office to ask whether you have been admitted to the program as this information cannot be given over the phone.
- Can I pursue a joint degree with another academic institution?
No, MIP does not have any Joint Degree Program agreements with other universities.
