Applying: Master of Public Policy

You will be prompted to upload this document in the online application. A Word or PDF document is recommended.

1. What is the motivation behind your decision to pursue the Batten MPP? Please indicate your interest in addressing one or more policy areas or societal issues. What work, activity, or educational experiences have best equipped you for graduate studies in leadership and public policy? (Please limit your answer to 500 words)​
2. What do you see as your greatest personal strengths?  What are your biggest personal limitations or opportunities for personal growth? (Please limit your answer to 250 words)
3. Describe a time when you faced a significant failure or setback in something you were trying to accomplish and how you dealt with it. (Please limit your answer to 250 words)
4. One of our aims is to enhance students’ abilities to lead in a diverse and divided world. Tell us about a time you had to work across lines of difference to improve some outcome. (Please limit your answer to 250 words)

You are required to submit two letters of recommendation.  Your recommenders must submit their letters of recommendation via the online application module.  There will be more instructions regarding letters of recommendation within the application itself. 

For the 2021-2022 application cycle, the Batten School has removed the standardized test requirement. If you have already taken the GRE (or, for dual degree applicants, the GMAT or LSAT), you are welcome to submit your scores if you believe they provide another useful data point for your application. 

Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded directly to your online application. Should you gain acceptance to the MPP program, a required official transcript will be requested at that time.

There is no penalty for not submitting an application addendum! However, some applicants may have additional information that would be useful for the admissions committee to consider. Feel free to amplify the positive dimensions of your background that are not covered in other parts of this application. Similarly, you may wish to put some seemingly negative information in your application into context. Please format this application addendum as a letter to the admissions committee, not to exceed one page.

If you believe you qualify for in-state tuition, you must apply directly with UVA’s Office of Virginia Status using the following form. If you have any questions, please email vastatus@virginia.edu. Their office will be in communication with the Batten School once they have reviewed your residency application.