Application Requirements by Program

The Humphrey School admissions team is eager to answer your questions and provide information about our programs. For all inquiries, please reach out to us at [email protected]

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Master of Development Practice

Application requirements for the Master of Development Practice (MDP) program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is recommended
  • International professional experience and foreign language proficiency are strongly preferred

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to your aspirations to become a sustainable development practitioner.

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement is required of all applicants. The Humphrey School and the MDP program seek to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive school environment, ensuring that the people and scholarship at the School reflect our community and the world, and building an institution committed to inter-cultural growth and learning. In 500 words or fewer, discuss how your perspectives, experiences, and achievements will advance diversity, equity, and inclusion at the Humphrey School and the world.

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

GRE Scores: This Requirement is Suspended for the Fall 2025 Application Cycle

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

The Humphrey School provides application fee waivers for Pickering Fellows, PPIA Fellows, Truman Scholars, Americorps, City Year, and Returning Peace Corps Volunteers applying for the Peace Corps/Coverdell Fellowship. Additionally, McNair Scholars may qualify for a University of Minnesota McNair Application Fee Grant which pays for the cost of an application fee. A limited number of waivers are also available for applicants based upon financial need.

Start your application

Master of Human Rights

Application requirements for the Master of Human Rights (MHR) program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. The human rights community at the University of Minnesota fosters interdisciplinary and community-engaged research, teaching, and action on human rights and social justice in a complex and diverse world. The goal of the Master of Human Rights (MHR) is to inspire, educate, and support innovative human rights professionals. In 500 to 1,000 words, discuss your educational and professional interests, and explain how the MHR degree will support you in achieving your professional goals while advancing human rights.

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement is required of all applicants. The University of Minnesota seeks to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive educational environment, ensuring that the people and scholarship at the University reflect our community and the world. To that end, the MHR program seeks to form a cohort that is diverse in age, work or other experience, race, cultural background, political affiliation, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and socio-economic background. In 500 words or less, describe how your background, experiences and perspectives motivate you to explore equity and inclusion in your future education and career.

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

GRE Scores: This Requirement is Suspended for the Fall 2025 Application Cycle

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

The Humphrey School provides application fee waivers for Pickering Fellows, PPIA Fellows, Truman Scholars, Americorps, City Year, and Returning Peace Corps Volunteers applying for the Peace Corps/Coverdell Fellowship. Additionally, McNair Scholars may qualify for a University of Minnesota McNair Application Fee Grant which pays for the cost of an application fee. A limited number of waivers are also available for applicants based upon financial need.

Start your application

Master of Public Affairs (Mid-Career)

Application requirements for the mid-career Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program are outlined below. Please note that applicants to the MPA program are not required to submit GRE scores.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • At least 10 years of post-baccalaureate professional work experience is required for applicants to the MPA program. Pre-baccalaureate experience may be considered for applicants with a significant gap between completion of high school and the bachelor's degree.

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. The mission of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs is to inspire, educate, and support innovative leaders to advance the common good in a diverse world. In no more than 500 words, discuss your professional and personal history and explain how the MPA degree will support you in achieving your professional goals while advancing the common good.

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement is required of all applicants. The Humphrey School seeks to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive school environment, ensuring that its people and scholarship reflect our community and the world. To that end, the MPA program seeks mid-career individuals to form a cohort that is diverse in age, work sector, race, cultural background, political affiliation, geographic residency, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and class. While the curriculum explores race and racism, it seeks a broader understanding of factors contributing to social injustice and exclusion of marginalized populations. In 500 words or less, describe your experiences and/or interests in exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion in this program.

Impact Statement

An impact statement is required of all applicants. The MPA degree fosters interdisciplinary learning and action on personal leadership development, policy and program analysis, and research methods and analysis. In no more than 250 words, discuss how you intend to bridge academic disciplines and engage communities to have a broader impact toward meeting society's grand challenges.

Academic Readiness Statement

An academic readiness statement is required of all applicants. As mid-career individuals, you are already committing extensive time to your personal, civic, and professional life. The MPA program is a challenging academic program that will place new demands on your time. While we recognize that there is never a “perfect” time to enroll into graduate school, please discuss in no more than 250 words how you are ready to fully participate in the required monthly sessions and succeed academically.

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Start your application

Master of Public Policy

Application requirements for the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement (also called the "Equity and Inclusion Statement” within the Humphrey School) is required for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity, equity and inclusion. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

GRE Scores: This Requirement is Suspended for the Fall 2025 Application Cycle

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

The Humphrey School provides application fee waivers for Pickering Fellows, PPIA Fellows, Truman Scholars, Americorps, City Year, and Returning Peace Corps Volunteers applying for the Peace Corps/Coverdell Fellowship. Additionally, McNair Scholars may qualify for a University of Minnesota McNair Application Fee Grant which pays for the cost of an application fee. A limited number of waivers are also available for applicants based upon financial need.

Start your application

Master of Science in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy

Application requirements for the Master of Science in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (MS-STEP) program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is recommended
  • Applicants to the MS-STEP program should have completed a degree or taken advanced level coursework in natural or physical sciences, engineering, or environmental studies prior to the date of their planned enrollment

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. The mission of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs is to inspire, educate, and support innovative leaders to advance the common good in a diverse world. In 500 to 1,000 words, discuss your educational, professional, and personal history and explain how the MS–STEP degree will support you in achieving your professional goals while advancing the common good.  

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement is required of all applicants. The Humphrey School seeks to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive school environment, ensuring that the people and scholarship at the School reflect our community and the world, and building an institution committed to intercultural growth and learning. In no more than 500 words, discuss how you will advance equity and inclusion at the Humphrey School and the world.

Impact Statement

The STEP area fosters interdisciplinary and community-engaged research, teaching, and action on human well-being, environmental sustainability, and social justice in a complex and diverse world. In no more than 500 words, discuss how you intend to bridge academic disciplines (particularly between science/engineering fields and social sciences) and engage communities to have broader impact towards meeting society's grand challenges.  (Use "Other Miscellaneous Upload")

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

GRE Scores: This Requirement is Suspended for the Fall 2025 Application Cycle

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

The Humphrey School provides application fee waivers for Pickering Fellows, PPIA Fellows, Truman Scholars, AmeriCorps, City Year, and Returning Peace Corps Volunteers applying for the Peace Corps/Coverdell Fellowship. Additionally, McNair Scholars may qualify for a University of Minnesota McNair Application Fee Grant which pays for the cost of an application fee. A limited number of waivers are also available for applicants based upon financial need.

Start your application

Master of Urban and Regional Planning

Application requirements for the Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)
  • Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. The mission of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs is to inspire, educate, and support innovative leaders to advance the common good in a diverse world. In 500 to 1,000 words, discuss your educational, professional, and personal history and explain how the MURP degree will support you in achieving your professional goals while advancing the common good.

Diversity Statement

A diversity statement is required of all applicants. The Humphrey School seeks to create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive school environment, ensuring that the people and scholarship at the School reflect our community and the world, and building an institution committed to intercultural growth and learning. In no more than 500 words, discuss how you will advance equity and inclusion at the Humphrey School and the world.

Impact Statement

An impact statement is required of all applicants. The MURP degree program inspires, educates, and supports innovative and ethical planning leaders to advance urban and regional planning for the common good in a diverse world. In no more than 500 words, discuss how you intend to use your academic training from the MURP degree program and engagement with communities to have broader impact towards meeting society's grand challenges in the urban planning realm.

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Letters of Recommendation

At least three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload their recommendation online, they may send it in a sealed envelope, signed across the back flap, to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

We require letters that provide an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, experience in, or potential for, public service and leadership, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect the candidate's performance and potential for success as a graduate student.

GRE Scores: This Requirement is Suspended for the Fall 2025 Application Cycle

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Minimum score requirements:

  • TOEFL: minimum of 100 (22 on each section)
  • IELTS: minimum 7.0
  • Duolingo: minimum overall score: 115, minimum literacy subscore: 115 

Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

The Humphrey School provides application fee waivers for Pickering Fellows, PPIA Fellows, Truman Scholars, Americorps, City Year, and Returning Peace Corps Volunteers applying for the Peace Corps/Coverdell Fellowship. Additionally, McNair Scholars may qualify for a University of Minnesota McNair Application Fee Grant which pays for the cost of an application fee. A limited number of waivers are also available for applicants based upon financial need.

Start your application

Graduate Minors and Dual Degrees

Choosing a dual master’s degree program allows you to complete a Humphrey School degree and another University of Minnesota graduate or professional degree in less time (typically one year less) than it would take to complete the two degrees separately. You must apply for admission separately to both the Humphrey School and to the other school within the University. If applying for the MLA, MSCE, or MSW, you must also submit an application to the Graduate School.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Affairs

Application requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Affairs program are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • English language proficiency (see below for more information)

Personal Statement: Statement of Purpose and Research Interests

Your personal statement should focus on the research questions and topics you would like to pursue during your PhD study, and the faculty with whom you think your interests most closely match. Learn more about our faculty and their areas of expertise.

You do not need to prepare a separate Description of Research, though you may if you want to share more about your previous research experience.

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is optional yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Writing Sample

Upload a writing sample where indicated on the application. Appropriate samples would include journal articles, master’s thesis, or other professional writings that demonstrate research capability.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Please request your letters of recommendation through the Graduate School application system. If your recommender cannot upload his/her recommendation online, s/he may send it in a sealed envelope signed across the back flap to the Humphrey School. Faxed and emailed copies are not accepted.

Letters should address your capacity for advanced study, motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect performance as a graduate student.

GRE Scores

An official GRE score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from ETS into the additional materials section of the Graduate School online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

While you may take the test up to the application deadline for which you are applying and self-report your scores for consideration; this is not advisable due to the Office of Admissions' inability to guarantee that it will receive your scores (self-reported or official) in time the day of the deadline for consideration. We encourage applicants to plan in advance and to submit their scores prior to application deadlines.

The school code for the University of Minnesota is 6874.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material. You will also need to manually enter the GPA information for each institution listed.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

  • TOEFL: Required minimum scores are 600 (paper test), 250 (computer test), or 100 (internet test). When submitting official TOEFL scores, use the University of Minnesota school code 6874.
  • Duolingo: Required minimum overall score is 115. Required minimum literacy subscore is 115. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on how to submit your scores. 
  • IELTS: Required minimum score is 7.0. Official IELTS scores must be sent directly from the test center to the office of Graduate Admissions, 309 Johnston Hall, 101 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic applications and $95 for international applications.

Start your application

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Certificate in Early Childhood Policy

Application requirements for the Certificate in Early Childhood Policy are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • At least one course in political science (that analyzes political institutions) is strongly recommended
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation
  • Proficiency in MS Excel and Word is strongly recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is optional yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Start your application

Certificate in Election Administration

The Certificate in Election Administration is offered for both post-baccalaureate students and undergraduates. 

Post-Baccalaureate Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. university or foreign equivalent
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation

Undergraduate Prerequisites

  • 1 year of work experience in election administration or related field or 45 college credits
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is required for post-baccalaureate certificate applicants only. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required for post-baccalaureate certificate applicants only. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Extenuating circumstances may be claimed for post-baccalaureate certificate applicants only. Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

An application fee is required for post-baccalaureate certificate applicants only. The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Post-baccalaureate certificate: Start your application

Undergraduate certificate: Start your application

Certificate in Nonprofit Management

Application requirements for the Certificate in Nonprofit Management are outlined below. 

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • Two years of relevant paid/volunteer/internship experience with nonprofit organization(s) and/or philanthropic institutions. The two years do not need to be continuous but can be over several years and with different nonprofits. Relevant experience may include management of a budget, supervision of staff, development of programs (implementation and evaluation), fundraising, grant writing, regular participation in board meetings, and/or on board committees.

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School. For example, we suggest that you may want to highlight the following:

  • What has contributed to your interest in the nonprofit management certificate program.
  • What do you plan to be doing in your career in the next two to five years.
  • What is a current issue in nonprofit management that is of particular interest to you.
  • What did you learn from your two years (or more) of paid or unpaid experience in a nonprofit organization.
  • How have issues and challenges associated with diversity, broadly defined, been part of your experiences, thinking, and/or action?

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is optional, yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume. Applicants for the Certificate in Nonprofit Management must include documentation regarding their two years of relevant paid/volunteer/internship experience within their resume, and also preferably within their personal statement if possible.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Start your application

Certificate in Policy Issues on Work and Pay

Application requirements for the Certificate in Policy Issues on Work and Pay are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • At least one course in political science (that analyzes political institutions) is strongly recommended
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation
  • Proficiency in MS Excel and Word is strongly recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is optional yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Start your application

Certificate in Public Affairs Leadership

Application requirements for the Certificate in Public Affairs Leadership are outlined below.

Prerequisites

  • At least 10 years of post baccalaureate professional work experience. Pre-baccalaureate experience may be considered for applicants with a significant gap (15 years or more) between completion of high school and college.
  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited US university or foreign equivalent
  • At least one course in political science (that analyzes political institutions) is strongly recommended
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation
  • Proficiency in MS Excel and Word is strongly recommended

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

Diversity Statement

The diversity statement is optional yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

Transcripts

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

English Language Requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

Extenuating Circumstances

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

Application Fee

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

Start your application

Certificate in Sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance Leadership

Application requirements for the Sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance Leadership Graduate Certificate are outlined on the certificate’s page.