How to Apply

Application

$95 application fee

In some cases, attendees of admissions events may have their application fee waived. For more information, visit the UNC Graduate School Application Fee Waiver page.

Current Résumé or CV

Statement of Purpose

In one to two pages, respond to the question, “Why do you want to earn an MPA from UNC-Chapel Hill?” In your statement, address the following:

• Your professional goals
• Experiences that have led you to consider a public service career
• Why the UNC-Chapel Hill MPA program would be a good fit for you

Supplemental Writing Statement

Public service values are critical to the study and practice of public administration. In 500 words or less, share how you see public service values impacting your work or the work you hope to do after your graduate studies.

Unofficial Transcripts

For each university you are attending or have previously attended, upload one unofficial transcript showing completion of an accredited BA degree. If you are actively completing coursework, you must submit an official transcript showing degree completion before enrollment.

International students should submit an ECE evaluation of their international transcripts to determine the equivalent US degree and grade point system.

Three Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation should come from individuals familiar with your academic and professional achievements and should address your potential for success in this particular academic setting.

Applicants with a cumulative grade point average under 3.3 who have graduated with a degree in the last five years are strongly encouraged to have at least one academic reference.

Official Standardized Test Scores (optional)

The UNC MPA program stands by our commitment to holistic admissions and to recruiting a class which demonstrates academic success, dedication to public service, and diversity. We encourage any students who believe their application materials do not fully reflect their academic potential to include in their application an official graduate entrance exam (GRE, LSAT, and GMAT) score within the last five years. This is particularly recommended for students with cumulative GPAs below a 3.3, but any candidate is welcome to submit official exam scores for consideration by the admissions committee.

Send your official score report to Institution Code #5816.

TOEFL or IELTS Scores (international applicants)

For more information, visit the International Applicants section of the UNC Graduate School website.

Potential Interview

The MPA Admissions Committee will contact selected candidates to schedule an interview via Zoom.