After exceptionally high numbers of applications to its three graduate programs, including record highs for the Master in Public Policy and Ph.D. programs, the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs has welcomed 85 new grad students for the 2025-26 academic year.

The new cohort comprises eight doctoral students, 20 MPP students, and 57 Master in Public Affairs students. They reflect impressive geographic diversity, coming from 20 U.S. states and 27 countries, including dual citizens, as well as academic diversity, with 73 undergraduate institutions and 57 majors represented. Twenty-one of the students come to Princeton SPIA with prior graduate degrees.

The students’ professional backgrounds are equally diverse: Collectively, they have worked at more than 75 organizations across local, state, and federal governments, NGOs, multilateral institutions, and policy spheres, and they speak 30 different languages.

“Despite the many public policy challenges facing our world, one thing remains clear: our students continue to lead with purpose and impact,” said Steven F. Petric, assistant dean for global outreach, admissions, and alumni engagement. “Their work exemplifies the values we hold dear at SPIA, and we are proud to support them on their journey.”

Just under 40% are first-generation or lower-income students, and nearly half are women.

“We are proud of the strong representation across the military and other important dimensions including geographic, political, and religious affiliations,” Petric added.

In the undergraduate program, 135 juniors have joined the School, giving Princeton SPIA a total of 271 majors. Of these:

• Eight are Peer Academic Advisers, who serve as academic mentors for first-year students and sophomores.
• Two are Peer Career Advisers, students trained by the Center for Career Development to help fellow students with applications, resumes, and cover letters, explore opportunities, and more
• 98 are student-athletes

To learn more about the SPIA admissions process, visit: https://spia.princeton.edu/graduate-admissions