Fall Admissions Webinar (September 2024)

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Iram Siddique from India

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Hey everyone, thank you for joining us! Alejandro Sánchez here! Second year MPP student at the Jackson School. Happy to answer any questions you all may have about our exciting program.

Hello

Hello Hanane!

Spain but listening from NYC!

Hi Pancake!

:-)

Hi alejandro happy to be here with you

What is the minimum GRE score required for MPP?

Hi Alejandro, nice to meet you. Do you mind to share your background?

Hello from DC

Hey,

Hi Alejandro, the MPP program attracts people from all walks of life. Can you give us a sense of how that’s the case, and what are the common denominators of those who were admitted?

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Hi everyone, I'm Alejandro Sánchez Flores, a Master of Public Policy candidate at Yale Jackson. I'm originally from the California-Mexico borderlands and have worked at the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego on cross-border issues, including COVID-19 vaccine procurement and sustainable mobility. I’m passionate about human rights, migration, and democracy, and co-founded an LGBTQ+ advocacy platform in Baja California.

yes :)

Yes we can

FBI

Hi Sampada, there is no minimum GRE score requirement for the M.P.P. program at Jackson. However, we encourage you to submit strong scores as part of a holistic application review.

Is it a requirement to submit GRE scores? How much does it affect your acceptance to the program?

How many applications does the Jackson M.P.P typically get?

Hi Han, the MPP program at Jackson indeed brings together a diverse group of individuals from various professional and academic backgrounds. Common denominators among admitted students include a strong commitment to addressing global challenges, leadership potential, and a demonstrated interest in public policy or international affairs. You can explore the profiles of our current students here: https://jackson.yale.edu/about/meet-us/grad-students/overview/

Hi Grace, yes, submitting GRE scores is a requirement for the MPP program. While the GRE is an important component of the application, it is considered alongside other factors such as your academic background, professional experience, personal statement, and recommendations. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach to evaluating candidates.

Thank you Alejandro

Hi Henrietta, the Jackson School M.P.P. program typically receives around 1,000 applications each admissions cycle. The program is highly selective, and we carefully review each application through a holistic process.

Hi Alejandro! How significant is having a professional experience in our application? And is it common for the school to admit students with less than 2 years of professional experience (excluding internships)? Thanks!

Is it possible to list your GRE score while applying and get the scores sent by ETS officially after we get accepted? Asking this because ETS charges extra charges to send the scores directly. Its free for 4 colleges only.

Does MPP at YALE OFFER SPECIALISATION in Public Financial Management?

Forgot to mention - I'm asking for the MPP program specifically on the work exp thing! :)

(((( Asha, could you reconfigure your microphone?? It sounds a bit off! ))))

Hi Alejandaro, can someone apply with a 3 years Bachelors degree but over a decade of experience.

Hi Quinta! As Asha just mentioned, generally the program accepts candidates with at least two five of professional experience, but exceptions are made for students coming from specific fellowships like the Rangel Fellowship, which is designed for applicants right after undergrad. Relevant internships, volunteer work, or research experience can also help demonstrate readiness for the program.

Considering I am from a Business background, with over 8 years of experience in HR - which I would consider not relevant for the MPP program. Would that be a hinderance in terms of addmissions?

It sounds clear on my end!

what would be the age of MAS students?

I can hear you clearly

Sounds clear to me

Is this 2 years of experience when they join the program or should applicants have 2 years of work experience at the time of application?

How many applicants are typically offered a place if only 30-35 end up enrolling?

Hi Prarthana! We recommend including Yale Jackson within the four free score reports offered by ETS, as we do require the official scores to be sent directly to us as part of the application process. Please ensure that your GRE scores are shared with us at the time of application.

How common are career changers in your MPP cohorts? (e.g. from another liberal arts/humanities field to public policy)

Sampada, Asha will cover this later in our conversation, but the Jackson MPP program is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with specific interests, including public financial management. While there isn’t a formal specialization, you can focus your coursework on relevant subjects across Yale’s professional schools to develop expertise in this area.

Can the 2 years work experience requirement be substituted by a MA degree in a country outside of the US? (so for people who are applying to MPP as their 2nd MA)

Will TOEFL be mandatory for MPP?

Thanks Alejandro for answering all these so rapidly! For the GRE; Will admissions consider the 'shortened' GRE exam, or indeed the GRE administered at home?

For waiving the English language test requirement if I have had an undergraduate degree instructed in English, do I just need to indicate it in my application or is there additional documentation required? If yes, could you share the specific documents required?

Hi Iram! Yes, we accept students from undergraduate programs in all countries, and we understand that not all programs are four years long. As long as you hold an undergraduate degree, you meet the basic academic requirement for applying to the MPP program. Your significant professional experience will also be an important part of the holistic review process.

Perfect. Thank you so much

Hi Alejandro! I appreciate your help with the below:

Hi Niha! Your experience in HR can absolutely be relevant to the MPP program, especially if you frame it in the context of global challenges. Highlight how your work in HR has given you insight into workforce development, labor markets, leadership, or policy-related aspects of your field. Demonstrating how your skills in managing people and processes can contribute to addressing global issues such as economic inequality, human rights, or sustainable development will help showcase the value of your background to the program. Be sure to align your professional experience with how you intend to use those skills to tackle public policy challenges on a global scale.

Hi Fernando! MAS students typically come with significant professional experience, often in mid-career or beyond. While there’s no set age range, most MAS students are professionals who have already established themselves in their fields and are looking to deepen their expertise. On average, MAS students tend to be in their 30s or 40s, but we welcome individuals from all age groups who bring a strong background and a clear vision for how the program will advance their careers.

Thanks Asha! Would love to hear more about private sector outcomes for MPP grads, especially think tanks. Is that a preferred/popular option for students, and does the program or staff help students in preparing for such careers?

is there a list of languages that qualify for the l4 requirement or can it be any second language?

Great to learn about the freedom students have to take courses at other programs like SOM. I am curious about what that looks like for students seeking a dual degree program. So, MPP and MBA or MPP and JD.

I saw some interesting fellows that are going to join the college. Will the admitted candidates get to interact with them or collaborate with them?

Hey Alejandro! What would you say are the areas of strength of the Jackson MPP when compared, say, the HKS MPP when it comes university resources? I saw that HKS has a very strong economic development department, what would you say is the stronghold at Yale?

Do I need to contact professors in advance of applying to the MPP program?

1. Regarding the Middlebury Summer Language experience, what is the nature of the exigent academic purposes for which the Assistant Dean might exceptionally allow multingual students to take advantange of the summer language program?

Hey guys, my name is José. I was wondering if this year you will accept Duolingo as English test certification?

In my time at Jackson, I've taken classes like Intro to Python, Disinformation and AI, and Policy Challenges in the Sahel, which have pushed me to tackle global issues in new ways. This learning opened the door to a fascinating opportunity in Washington D.C. this summer, where I worked on geopolitical consulting projects. Last spring, I was fortunate to travel to Algeria and Senegal, connecting with peers and experts on the ground. I'm excited to see some of the incredible students I met in Algeria joining today's call!

Hey guys, I was wondering if you guys recommend to contact professors in advance of applying to the MPP program?

Shubhashree, applicants should have *five* years of full-time work experience by the time they join the program, not necessarily at the time of application.

Is there lists of courses that we can take as Asha previously said we can tailor it according to our interest. Is there a specific link I can access the possible courses from?

Henrietta, while we can't share specific numbers, we can say that the Jackson School aims to maintain a highly selective process, ensuring that each cohort is composed of exceptional candidates from diverse backgrounds. The small cohort size allows for a close-knit learning environment with personalized attention from faculty.

Everyone, take a look at this year's Senior Fellows at Jackson! https://jackson.yale.edu/about/meet-us/senior-fellows/overview/

Thanks, Alejandro! I noticed some students have less than 5 years of work experience too.

What sets Yale's apart from other MPP programs given that it started fairly recently?

Han, career changers are quite common in our MPP cohorts. The interdisciplinary nature of the Jackson School's MPP program attracts individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including liberal arts, humanities, and even fields like business and engineering. What matters most is how well your previous experiences and skills align with your goals in public policy and global affairs.

Petra, while we highly value work experience for our MPP program, having an additional MA degree doesn’t typically substitute for the work experience requirement.

On the summer experience, how would one balance this if enrolled in a dual degree program?

Sampada, the TOEFL (or an equivalent English language proficiency test like IELTS or Cambridge English) is mandatory for non-native English speakers unless you have completed an undergraduate degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction for at least three years. If that applies to you, then the requirement may be waived.

Karim, we accept any official GRE score, whether it's from the shortened version or the GRE administered at home.

Would you advise people with 5 years of college experience (undergrad & grad) & with 6 months of internships not to apply then?

For MPP, do you have any specific quota for international students' admissions?

The recommended length for the statement of purpose are 2-4 pages. Is that double spaced?

Kirtimay, as Asha just mentioned, about a third of our MPP graduates do indeed move on to roles in the private sector, including at think tanks. The program, along with the staff, offers robust career support through networking and personalized advising to help students prepare for these types of roles. Think tanks and other research organizations are definitely a common path for our graduates.

Is it possible to receibe financial support for living stipends beside the tuition? is it possible to work part time?

John, the language requirement (L4) can be satisfied with any modern language as long as proficiency can be demonstrated. There isn't a strict list of qualifying languages, so it can be any second language you have studied or are proficient in.

Christopher, for the MPP component of a dual degree, you are indeed free to take classes across Yale's graduate and professional schools once you have fulfilled Jackson's core classes. However, you would need to check directly with SOM or YLS regarding the flexibility and course options for the MBA or JD component of your dual degree.

Perfect, thank you Alejandro!

Prarthana, yes, both Senior Fellows and World Fellows are actively involved with Jackson, and admitted students have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with them throughout the program. These fellows often lead seminars, workshops, and other collaborative projects with students.

Hi Alejandro. Do you have acceptance rates statistics? How many students apply for the 35 available spaces?

Nohman, one of the key strengths of the Jackson MPP at Yale is its interdisciplinary nature, allowing students to draw on resources across Yale’s professional schools, such as Law, Management, and Environment. This is not the case across other policy schools. Our focus on small class sizes fosters a close-knit community with personalized mentorship, and we have strong areas in human rights, peace building, global governance, and climate policy. The opportunity to work closely with world-renowned faculty and engage with real-world policy challenges is also a standout feature.

Marisila, no, there is no need to contact professors in advance of applying to the MPP program. All applicants are considered equally based on the strength of their application materials. However, once admitted, you will have the opportunity to engage closely with faculty.

Thanks!

Hi Alejandro, I noticed in the FAQ that applications can be submitted by December 1st to qualify for the admission fee waiver, with the GRE score submitted later, before January 1st. Can you please confirm if that’s correct? Thank you!

Is the GRE required or recommended?

Fabian, the Middlebury Summer Language experience is typically reserved for students who need to meet the language proficiency requirement. However, for students who are already multilingual, Jackson might exceptionally allow participation if there is a compelling academic reason to enhance specific language skills that are crucial to their professional or academic goals in global affairs. This would be determined on a case-by-case basis.

José, we do not accept the Duolingo test. For English language certification, we accept TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English exams. These are the required tests for non-native English speakers applying to the program.

Is the lack of experience professional an issue when applying and would that hinder being chosen for the program particularly with the M.P.P program?

Prarthana, you can explore the range of courses available for the MPP program by visiting this link: https://jackson.yale.edu/academics/mpp/courses-and-curriculum. This will give you an idea of the courses and how you can tailor your curriculum based on your interests.

For the MAS program work experience requirement, is it only limited to full time experience in public sector or policy or related fields, or would a pure business background with some NGO involvement on a part time basis be considered sufficiently relevant?

Does the work experience need to be in English-language positions, or can they be in a foreign language but use English skills extensively on the job?

Christopher, balancing the summer experience in a dual degree program is handled on a case-by-case basis. Since both Yale Law School (YLS), Yale School of the Environment (YSE), and Yale School of Management (SOM) also require summer components, you generally choose which experience to complete during which summer based on your interests and career goals. Students work closely with advisors to ensure they meet the requirements of both programs.

Hello, my name is Bummah and I am interested in applying for the joint degree MPP/MBA with the SOM. I am also interested in applying to the SOM through the Consortium MBA application. How would applying to the joint degree application at the onset work with the consortium MBA application?

Must we have an experience to study at Yale ?

Are the admissions on rolling basis?

Petra, we would advise gaining more work experience before applying. Typically, the MPP program values candidates with at least 5 years of professional experience beyond internships. This experience helps demonstrate your ability to contribute meaningfully to the program and make the most of the opportunities available.

Question on the Recommenders: Can all 3 be professional if you have worked for 4-5 years? Is there a preference?

Quinta, there is no specific quota for international students in the MPP program.

Nohman, the recommended length for the statement of purpose is 2–4 pages. There is no spacing preference.

What is the range of the additional living stipend offered to Coverdell fellows? How is this amount determined and does it require an additional application?

Fernando, yes, it's possible to receive financial support for living stipends in addition to full tuition fellowships. Additionally, students are allowed to work part-time on campus for up to 20 hours per week.

Henrietta, there are 35 admits per year. The yield will be anywhere between 30%-75%, so anywhere between 50-120 admits would be an estimate. If I had to narrow it down I would guess around 80 admits. On 1000 applications, that is an admissions rate of around 8%

Eliana, the GRE is a required component of the application for the MPP program.

Gabby, professional experience is highly valued for the M.P.P. program. Typically, applicants are expected to have at least five years of professional experience, though there are some exceptions for those coming from specific fellowship programs or with significant achievements in relevant fields. Lack of experience could make the application more challenging but not impossible if other aspects of your profile are particularly strong.

Karen, for the M.A.S. program, all types of professional work experience are considered, including full-time business roles with part-time NGO involvement. While experience in public policy or related fields is ideal, we value diverse backgrounds and the unique perspectives they bring, so a strong case can still be made with relevant global business experience.

(((( I am! ))))

Thank you so much!

Hi Asha and Alejandro, I'm wondering if the Jackson School has plans to create a PhD program. Thanks -

Alejandro you're amazing hahah!

Greetings I'm from India, a prospective MPP student. My questions are - What is a very specific advice you would like to me. Zero full-time work experience but good internships oriented towards public policy, and a very diverse background. In the cohort of 35 - will there be 2-3 admits like this ?

Han, your work experience does not need to be in an English-language position. As long as you have extensively used English skills on the job, regardless of the language of the workplace, that experience will be considered valid and relevant.

Is there any requirement or 'promise' to receive funding for MPP?

Bummah, as Asha is currently addressing, if you're applying to the joint MPP/MBA degree with SOM through the Consortium MBA application, you will still need to submit separate applications to both the Jackson School for the MPP and to SOM for the MBA. Each program has its own set of application requirements, but you can indicate your interest in pursuing the joint degree during the process. Be sure to follow the specific instructions for both applications to ensure they align.

Hanane, yes, for the MPP program, we typically require a minimum of five years of full-time professional work experience before enrolling. This is to ensure that students bring practical insights into the classroom and can apply policy analysis to real-world problems.

Among the 3 recommenders what would you suggest we include? 2 Recommendations from professors and one from work experience or 2 from work experience and one from our professor?

Christopher, as Asha just mentioned, at least one academic recommender is valued to provide insights into your academic skills and ability to succeed in a rigorous program like the MPP. While professional recommendations are important, balancing with an academic perspective helps Jackson assess your potential in an academic setting.

Perfect. Thank yoU!

Do you have acceptance rate statistics? How many students apply for the 35 available spaces?

As a Fulbright Grantee, could this, along with internships and a one-year master’s program I’m currently enrolled in, help compensate for having less professional work experience?

Hi Alejandro! Can you share what the funding structure is like for doing both an MPP & MBA?

Thank you, Asha!

Fabian, for detailed information about the Coverdell Fellowship, including living stipends, please refer to this link: https://jackson.yale.edu/admissions/mpp/tuition-funding/the-coverdell-fellowship/. Typically, students receive stipends to cover Jackson's official cost of living (available in our Tuition and Funding site).

Thank you Alejandro

Do you ever accept deferrals for extenuating circumstances (e.g., immigration issues)?

Thank you very much Alejandro!

For the MAS program, I’m assuming the admission decisions are usually announced in the second or third week of March. Is there any cases where the decisions are released earlier?

Thank you!

Ramsey, currently, the Jackson School does not offer a PhD program. For those interested in pursuing doctoral studies at Yale, I recommend exploring the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) for relevant opportunities: https://politicalscience.yale.edu/academics/graduate-program

Is MPP more suitable for those working in foreign service of a country, or it helps even the general civil servants?

I previously worked in private equity / investments space. Are people who want to pivot into public service welcome if the skillset is transferable?

Sign up for our Peace Corps event here! https://jackson.yale.edu/jackson-events/virtual-admissions-panel-for-peace-corps-volunteers-2/

Greetings I'm from India, a prospective MPP student. My questions are - What is a very specific advice you would like to me. Zero full-time work experience but good internships oriented towards public policy, and a very diverse background. In the cohort of 35 - will there be 2-3 admits like this ? Ma'am, what's your personal insight on this

Nisanart, as Asha mentioned, all MPP students at the Jackson School are guaranteed 100% tuition fellowships. Additionally, living stipends are available for a portion of the cohort based on merit and financial need.

Great, thanks!

Asha, could you share some guidance on who the third recommendation letter should typically come from?

Henrietta, being a Fulbright Grantee and having relevant internships and a one-year master's program certainly strengthens your application. While we typically look for *at least* two years of professional work experience, these experiences can help demonstrate your preparedness and commitment, which can be valuable when considering your overall profile.

And does the work experience part-time during the college years would count?

Thank you very much Alejandro!

Tiannis, for the MPP portion of the dual MPP/MBA degree, Jackson offers 100% tuition fellowships for all MPP students, with additional living stipends available based on merit and need. For the MBA component, you would need to explore funding options directly through the Yale School of Management (SOM), as the funding structures differ between the two programs. Be sure to check with SOM for their specific financial aid offerings.

Thank you, Alejandro!!

Tiannis, great question!

Thanks, Christopher!

Hi Alejandro/Asha, you published the GRE profiles for the most recent class. How would you advise to interpret that to prepare for ours?

Thank you for clarifications

Mario, deferrals are considered on a case-by-case basis, particularly for extenuating circumstances. Jackson will work closely with you and the Office of International Students and Scholars to provide the necessary support during such situations.

Hi Asha, can you talk about the networking opportunities and how students engage with the Yale community after graduation?

Thanks Asha and Alejandro!

Sho, there are no early releases of Admissions decisions.

Ma'am, Im working for an edu-tech startup since 2020, but it's not paid, since its run by youth.

Thanks Alejandro!

Sampada, the MPP is suitable for those in all sorts of public service. There is no preference for one branch over another.

Thank you, being a part of a small and active community sounds like a wonderful experience!

. Ma'am, Im working for an edu-tech startup since 2020 as HR Head and policy analyst, but it's not paid, since its run by youth. Will you consider it as work experience? That was the only final thing that's bothering me to ask you.

Alina, only full-time work experience after graduation is considered for the MPP program. However, you can certainly include your part-time work during college in your application to showcase relevant skills and experiences.

Can mpp students get involved in residential life and housing? Like as grad assistants? Or are students usually too busy?

Han, the GRE profiles provide a helpful snapshot of the range of scores admitted students have. However, remember that GRE scores are just one aspect of your application. We recommend focusing on presenting a strong overall profile—highlighting your professional experience, academic background, and personal statement—as the admissions process is holistic.

I just graduated from college and recently started my first full-time job. What should I keep in mind these next 3-4 years to develop a strong application when I eventually apply for the MPP program?

I am particularly interested in the Social Innovation center of the Jackson School. Where can I find more information on the innovation center and who can I talk to for more information on the innocation center?

Thank you very much Asha and Alejandro! Logging off now, blessed day to all

Thank you for hosting! Wondering if it is possible for MPP students to declare a STEM track?

For those with 5+ years of work experience, would you still advise them to include internships on their resumes, or only list full-time ones?

Emma, yes, MPP students can get involved in residential life and housing. Opportunities also extend to supporting undergraduate housing as well. More detailed information is shared with admitted students, and many do find time to engage with these roles alongside their studies.

Hi, does the the Brady-Johnson program prefer applicants who are planning on doing careers in the public sector?

Britney, it’s great that you’re already planning ahead! Over the next 3-4 years, focus on gaining diverse and meaningful work experience, ideally in roles that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and impact. Take on projects that align with public policy or global affairs, and build relationships with mentors who can provide strong recommendations.

That’s great! I loved being an RA in college and would love to do it again. Thanks Alejandro!

Hey Asha & Alejandro, wondering if the program tends to favour students with a quant or data background?

Thank you!

Mia, you can find more information about the Social Innovation Initiative at Jackson through this link: https://jackson.yale.edu/social-innovation-initiative/. If you have further questions, you can reach out to the contacts listed on that page for more detailed information.

Okay, thanks

Got it. Thank you, Asha!

Thanks a lot Alejandro and Asha! This is incredibly helpful.

Thank you for the very helpful information Asha and Alejandro!

Alejandro, why did you pick Yale over the other schools I presume you applied to?

Thank you Asha and Alejandro for a comprehensive and insightful webinar!

Thank you Asha, Alejandro, and Pancake!

Thanks for organising this. It was very informative!

Thank you Asha and Alejandro!! Super helpful session

Thank you for joining! If you have more questions, feel free to send them to jackson.admissions@yale.edu.

Thank you!

Thank you!

Thank you both so much!!

Can we find the recording of this webinar?

thanks so much

Thank you

Thanks again -

Thank you!

Thank you Asha and Alejandro!

Bye!

Thank you Asha, Alejandron and Pancake!

thank YoU