Thanks for your interest in the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA). We appreciate your commitment to public service and support of your community. Your commitment impacts each of us, so we are excited about what you would bring into our School.

We understand that applying to graduate school is a stressful time. Writing personal statements, requesting letters of recommendation, sitting through the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), and being evaluated by others can prove difficult. However, this process should bring about an introspection that helps direct your path moving forward. So, as much as possible, invest in this time of discovery and aspiration, and know that it is but one part of your larger trajectory.

Students often ask what we look for in our applicants. At SPIA, the number one thing we look for is an applicant’s commitment to public service. We look for this through professional work experience, volunteerism, civic membership, or other avenues. Outside of this, we want to get to know you. We are specifically interested in what has helped you become who you are today. What is it that inspires your commitment towards making the world a better place? Where do you come from, what important lessons have you learned along the way, and how will you bring this to Princeton? Some of these diverse experiences will come out during our holistic application review process, but we want you to lean into who you are throughout the application. Tell us your story in a way that only you can.

As you finish up your application, remember that we have several resources available to you. You can find helpful application pro tips via our Graduate Admissions Blog. Our Graduate Viewbook will provide an overview about our graduate programs and community. You can also call our office (609-258-4836), or send an email. Whichever way you choose to connect, we look forward to hearing from you.

For a little last-minute support, we have compiled links to our Application Pro Tips series below. We hope you find these helpful.

Application Pro Tip: Showcasing your Commitment to Public Service

Application Pro Tip: Statement of Purpose

Application Pro Tip: Supplemental Essay

Application Pro Tip: Letters of Recommendation

Application Pro Tip: Writing an Impactful Policy Memo

Application Pro Tip: English Language Proficiency Tests

Application Pro Tip: Reapplication

Application Pro Tip: Last Minute Resources

From each of us at the Princeton SPIA Graduate Admissions Office, we thank you for your interest in our community. We celebrate your commitment to public service and want to remind you of a few things:

• Your service is valuable.
• Your service matters.
• Your service is and will continue to make a difference.

We wish you all the best throughout the application process!

 

*Thumbnail photo is of Double Sights, which is an art installation about Woodrow Wilson's complicated legacy, designed by acclaimed artist Walter Hood. It is located in front of Robertson Hall, home to SPIA.