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2025-26 Application Dates and DeadlinesÌý

• September 15, 2025:ÌýApplications open
  • January 15, 2026: International applicants
  • FebruaryÌý1, 2026: Canadian applicants
• Please note: Entrance to the MPP program is highly competitive. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis in batches, so the earlier a file is complete, the sooner the applicant may expect to receive a decision.

Admission RequirementsÌý

The MPP program is directed at early career professionals who are interested in developing expertise in the field of public policy. We take a holistic approach to each applicant’s file, and our aim is for every cohort to have a diverse mix of backgrounds, academic interests, and professional experience. For recent graduates with limited experience more weight will be placed on the academic record.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent as recognised by ɬÀï·¬. Learn more about Educational credentials and grade equivalencies
• An overall Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.6/4.0 or higher is recommended. A minimum (CGPA) of 3.0 (out of a possible 4.0), OR a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 2-3 years of professional work experience
• Familiarity with quantitative methods

English language proficiency

If you do not meet any of the Proof of proficiency - not required conditions, you must demonstrate proficiency in English using one of the following options:

• A minimum score of 100 for the Internet-based TOEFL exam test (iBT; 600 for the paper-based test (PBT)) with each component score not less than 20 is required. Please use the codes ɬÀï·¬ 0935 when writing the exam.

• Applicants may write the IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) instead of the TOEFL exam. A minimum overall band of 7.0 is required, with each component score not less than 7.0. IELTS test scores must be sent electronically by IELTS directly to ɬÀï·¬ using the ɬÀï·¬ code 0935.
• Please note that the Duolingo English Test (DET) is not accepted for admission to graduate programs at ɬÀï·¬.

Application ProceduresÌý

ɬÀ﷬’s online application portal for graduate program candidates is available at:Ìýwww.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/apply-now
For detailed application procedures:Ìý

Supporting Documents:

• Transcripts
  • A record of study is required from each university-level institution you have attended.
  • Transcripts in languages other than English or French must be accompanied by an English or French translation provided by the institution issuing the transcript, or by a certified translator. A copy in the original language is also required; an English or French translation alone is not sufficient.
  • An unofficial copy of your complete university-level academic record to date must be uploaded through your application portal.
  • If the transcript does not indicate that a degree has been conferred, a copy of the degree certificate (diploma) will also need to be uploaded.
  • If you receive an offer of admission, you will be required to make arrangements for an official copy of each transcript to be sent to ɬÀï·¬.
• Personal Statement (1,000 words). Your essay should explain why your background makes you an ideal candidate for the Max Bell MPP program, and how success in this program will enable you to achieve your professional goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Reference Letters (2 required). Ideally one from an academic and one from a professional
• TOEFL or IELTS score written within the past two years (where applicable)
• The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test score is NOT a requirement

Interview

After a preliminary review of their file, some candidates will be invited for an interview, to be conducted remotely. We would like to highlight the importance of the interview as it is not only for the admissions committee to better understand your background and experiences, but also an important opportunity for you to ask key questions and ensure that the Max Bell School MPP program is right for you. During the interview you will be asked to talk about your interests in public policy, and what you hope to accomplish following your MPP experience.