How Many Public Policy Schools Should You Apply To? A Strategic Guide
Applying to a Master’s in Public Policy (MPP) or Public Administration (MPA) program is a big decision—so how many schools should you apply to? Unlike law school, where most applicants apply to 10+ programs, public policy grad schools often have different expectations.
This guide will help you determine the right number of applications, how to build a balanced school list, and what factors to consider before hitting submit.
1. The Ideal Number of Public Policy Schools to Apply To
Most applicants should apply to 5-8 schools, but the right number depends on your competitiveness, financial situation, and career goals.
🚀 Pro Tip: If you're applying for full funding, apply to more schools to increase your scholarship opportunities.
2. How to Build a Balanced School List
A well-rounded application strategy includes a mix of reach, target, and safety schools.
✅ 1. Reach Schools (1-3 Schools)
Highly competitive programs where your GPA and experience may be below the average.
Examples: Harvard Kennedy, Princeton SPIA, University of Chicago (Harris)
💡 Who should apply?
If you have strong professional experience or a unique background.
If you’re aiming for prestigious fellowships or networking opportunities.
✅ 2. Target Schools (3-5 Schools)
Schools where your GPA, test scores (if required), and experience match the average admitted student.
Examples: Georgetown McCourt, UC Berkeley Goldman, University of Michigan Ford, Duke Sanford
💡 Who should apply?
If you want a strong program that aligns with your career goals.
If you need good financial aid opportunities.
✅ 3. Safety Schools (1-3 Schools)
Programs where your qualifications exceed the average admitted student.
Examples: American University, Indiana University O’Neill, University of Pittsburgh GSPIA
💡 Who should apply?
If you need a guaranteed admission and funding backup.
If you’re looking for regional opportunities in specific cities.
🚀 Pro Tip: Always apply to at least one safety school with good funding options.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Schools
1. Career Goals: Does the Program Fit Your Interests?
If you want to work in government policy, law, or legislative affairs, consider Harvard Kennedy, Georgetown, or Chicago Harris.
If you’re interested in environmental or social justice policy, look at UC Berkeley, Michigan Ford, or Duke Sanford.
If you want to go into public administration or nonprofit leadership, focus on MPA programs like Syracuse Maxwell, Indiana O’Neill, or NYU Wagner.
2. Cost & Funding Availability
Some programs, like Princeton SPIA, offer full tuition coverage for all admitted students.
Public universities may have lower tuition for in-state students (e.g., University of Texas LBJ).
Look for graduate assistantships or fellowships that help reduce tuition.
3. Location & Networking Opportunities
Washington, DC schools (Georgetown, GWU, American University) are great for federal government careers.
New York-based programs (Columbia SIPA, NYU Wagner) have strong connections to international policy and nonprofits.
Schools near state capitals (Berkeley, Michigan, Texas, Indiana) can offer local government opportunities.
🚀 Pro Tip: Consider where you want to work after graduation—schools with strong local alumni networks can help with job placement.
4. Should You Apply in Rounds or All at Once?
Unlike law school or MBA programs, most public policy schools have rolling or single-round admissions.
✅ If you’re applying to funding-heavy programs (Harvard, Princeton, Chicago), apply early (September-November).
✅ If your programs have rolling admissions, submit early to increase your chances.
✅ If you’re unsure, apply to a few top-choice schools first, then add more if needed.
🚀 Pro Tip: Many programs release scholarships on a first-come, first-served basis—applying early gives you the best chance at funding.
5. Final Decision: How Many Schools Should YOU Apply To?
Ask yourself:
Do I have reach, target, and safety schools on my list?
Am I applying for funding? If so, should I increase my applications?
Have I researched each school’s career placements and alumni network?
Final School List Recommendations:
✔️ Highly Competitive Applicants: Apply to 3-5 schools (mostly top-tier programs).
✔️ Average Applicants: Apply to 5-8 schools (mix of reach, target, and safety).
✔️ Less Competitive Applicants: Apply to 8-12 schools (maximize chances).
🚀 Pro Tip: If you need funding, apply to more schools to increase your financial aid options.
Final Thoughts: Applying to the Right Number of Public Policy Schools
Most applicants should apply to 5-8 schools, balancing reach, target, and safety options.
Choose programs that align with your career goals, funding needs, and location preferences.
Apply early to maximize scholarship and assistantship opportunities.
💡 Still unsure? Connect with Kappa Alpha Pi mentors for grad school application advice!
