Master of Science in Sustainable Organizations and Policy Admission and Financial Aid
The world and Maxwell are waiting for changemakers like you. Are you ready to join us?
We prepare graduates to excel as versatile, multidisciplinary leaders, ready to address global sustainability challenges with a forward-thinking approach.
We seek applicants who show an understanding of the professional nature of the field with clearly identified career goals that are aligned with the program's mission, as well as a demonstrated ability to handle graduate-level coursework.
The GRE is no longer required for application to any of the department’s master’s programs.
Fellowships for the Public Good
One thing I would stress for students applying to Maxwell is make sure to apply for financial aid and not to delay or be afraid of asking,” says Kelli Sunabe, whose Robertson Foundation for Government Fellowship covers full tuition plus a stipend. Kelli is finishing her Maxwell studies as a Boren Fellow in Tapei and improving her Mandarin proficency.
Kelli Sunabe ’22 M.P.A./M.A. in international relations
Robertson Foundation for Government Fellow; Boren Fellow
Read Peace Corps, Fulbright Evacuees Find Community, Opportunity at Maxwell School
Criteria, Deadlines and Materials
Application Criteria
A strong candidate will have:
- A commitment to sustainability and appreciation for the interdisciplinary approach of the Maxwell and Whitman school’s mission to prepare graduates to contribute to the public good in all levels of government, nonprofits/NGOs and the private sector.
- Relevant internships or post-undergraduate work experience.
- Undergraduate coursework should demonstrate strong academic ability and potential to succeed in a rigorous graduate curriculum. Students from a range of undergraduate majors/programs are welcomed to apply.
- A clear understanding of their career goals as they relate to this graduate program.
Syracuse reads applications holistically. This means that each element of the application is factored into the admission process.
GPA
There are no strict cutoffs or minimums or maximums when it comes to GPA. However, most admitted students have a cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
GRE
The GRE is not required for admission.
Priority Application Deadline
The M.S. in Sustainable Organizations and Policy program operates on a rolling, space-available admission basis, meaning that applications are reviewed as they become complete—both before and after the priority deadlines.
However, if you are seeking financial assistance or are an international applicant, you are strongly encouraged to apply before the priority deadline.
- Fall admission: January 15
Application Materials
- Application and $75 application fee
- Personal statement
- Résumé
- Transcripts:
Unofficial undergraduate transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required prior to enrollment. - Letters of recommendation:
Two (2) letters of recommendation from a current or previous faculty member or professional supervisor (faculty recommendations are strongly encouraged). - English Proficiency Exam (international students only):
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, or the Cambridge English Assessment.
TOEFL
- Total Minimum Score: 100
- Syracuse University institution code: 2823
Duolingo
- Total Minimum Score: 115 to 120
- Institution Name: Syracuse University Graduate Programs
IELTS
- Overall Minimum Score: 7.0
- E-download Account Name: Syracuse University-Graduate Admissions
Cambridge English Assessment
- Total Minimum Score (B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): 185
Funding Your Education
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Maxwell and Whitman Scholarships
The Maxwell and Whitman schools offer a significant number of merit-based scholarships every year. To be considered for program funding, simply express interest via the relevant financial support question in the online application for admission.
Don’t go it alone.
