The MPA application for the fall semester opens Sept. 1 with initial application review starting Dec 15 and continuing on a rolling basis through May 1.

Applications submitted after May 1 will only be considered for the upcoming fall semester if there is room in the cohort. We encourage our international applicants to apply as early as possible so as to have sufficient time to apply for required student visas. 

For full consideration for graduate assistantships, completed application should be received by Feb 1.

 Fall

Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions should be uploaded with your electronic application and may be used for departmental admission review purposes. If offered admission, you will be directed and required to submit to the JMU Graduate School an official transcript from any institution from which a degree has been awarded to finalize your admission. Transcripts are considered official if they are sent to JMU directly from the issuing institution.

•  Statement of Purpose, outlining professional goals and motivation for pursuing the M.P.A. degree
•  Professional resume summarizing education, work, and volunteer experiences  
•  Previous coursework in American Government and Research Methods is preferred, but not required. 

• Application --> Visit the Online Application at this link
• Application fee

International Graduate Information

Details regarding transcripts and credential evaluations from non-US academic institutions can be found on the Transcripts & Credential Evaluation webpage. 

English Language Proficiency: If English is not your native-language, applicants must present evidence of English proficiency. Completion of an undergraduate program in which English is the primary language of instruction is considered good evidence of English-language proficiency. All programs reserve the right to request specific requirements to assist international applicants with meeting the English language proficiency criteria such as: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores. Your application will be reviewed based on the evidence received with your application.