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What You Need to Know to Complete Your MPP Application

The deadline to apply for our MPP program is right around the corner. Don't miss your chance to join this bold and innovative program designed to shape the next generation of policy leaders.

We've received a number of applications for the Master of Public Policy program so far, and our acceptance process is already underway. If you've haven't completed your application yet, don't worry, there is still time to submit it. To help you finalize your application, we're created this summary of everything you need to apply.

Remember, these admission requirements are a description of what an “ideal” student looks like. We will look at all applicants from a comprehensive perspective, taking into account all aspects of their professional and educational experiences.

Make sure you meet the minimum academic requirements

  • A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent as recognised by SM) is a minimum requirement. 
  • The 'ideal' applicant will have completed undergraduate courses in Political Science, Economics, Quantitative Methods, and/or Statistics.
  • 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.
  • You can find information on international credentials and grade equivalencies here.

Verify if you need to write an English proficiency test

  • There are language requirements for applicants with a bachelor's degree outside Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom.
  • If this is your case, you are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
  • 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 SM 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 SM using the SM code 0935.
  • See English language proficiency exemptions here.

Maximize your personal statement

  • 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. Hear from a past MPP about writing her personal statement.

Show off your professional experience in your curriculum vitae

  • Ideally, your CV will demonstrate that you have worked for 2-5 years after your bachelor’s degree. No professional experience after your bachelor's degree? Make sure to include what experience you have to date. Keep in mind that in the absence of professional experience, more weight will be placed on your academic record.

Assemble your references

  • Two letters of reference are required. Ideally, one from an academic and one from a professional.

Upload supporting documents

  • TOEFL or IELTS score written within the past two years (where applicable).
  • The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test score is NOT a requirement.

Need more information? 

  • Have more questions about tuition fees, application review or other academic requirements ? Consult our FAQ.
  • Are you an international student? Consult for more specific information on requirements and the for immigration-related information.
  • Sign up for e-mail updates about the Max Bell School and its MPP program.
  • Visit our website anytime for more information about the Max Bell School of Public Policy and our MPP program.
  • If you have any program-related questions, send us an maxbell.school [at] mcgill.ca (email) anytime and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

We wish you the best of luck, and are excited to read your application. In the meantime, learn more about what life in Montreal could look like and get excited!

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