Master of Public Administration (MPA)
American University School of Public Affairs · Washington, DC
- Field: Public Policy & Administration
- Degrees: Master's
- Application fee: $65
- GRE: Optional
- Letters: 1 (recommendations)
Deadlines
- Priority deadline, fall application (domestic and international): Jan. 15, 2027
- Final deadline for international master's applicants, fall: May 1, 2027
Essays
Statement of purpose (1.5 to 2 typed pages)
Describe personal and career goals, relevant experience, reasons for choosing AU and the program, and ability and commitment to graduate study
Résumé
Editor's notes
- SPA reviews on a rolling basis, but answer yes to the merit award question and finish early: the program page and FAQ give February 15 as the priority date for first-round fall merit awards, while the deadlines page lists January 15 as the fall priority deadline, so treat January 15 as the safe target. Only one letter is required, so pick the recommender who can speak most concretely to your public service work. With a 1.5 to 2 page statement, cover the four things SPA asks for (goals, experience, why AU and the MPA, readiness for graduate study) without padding; the program says prior work in the field is not required but the file should show serious commitment to it.
