Blog: How to Create a Strong Application for Duke Sanford’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) Program

Applying to graduate school is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process, the Duke Sanford School of Public Policy admissions team has compiled a step-by-step guide for building a successful Master of Public Policy (MPP) application.

These tips, drawn from our admissions experts, can help you present your most authentic, compelling, and complete application.

Expert Guidance from Melissa McGinnis, Director of MPP Admissions

Melissa McGinnis leads admissions for the MPP program, bringing over 20 years of experience in graduate admissions at institutions including Yale and Princeton. She is passionate about supporting students who pursue careers in public service and has mentored young leaders around the world.

1. Start Early and Plan Ahead

The application deadline is January 5 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Admissions review begins immediately after the deadline, so the earlier your materials are complete, the sooner your application can be reviewed.

It’s okay if official test scores, recommendations, or the application fee arrive shortly after the deadline, just ensure they are submitted within a week of our January 5 deadline.

Tip: Build a checklist and timeline for submitting each part of your application. Work backwards from the deadline to give your recommenders, transcript offices, and yourself, plenty of time.

Melissa's take: "You are likely applying to a number of graduate programs at the same time. My first recommendation is to create an Excel file or some sort of spreadsheet to keep track of them. We all have different deadlines, different application fees, different testing requirements, different essay prompts, etc. etc. Should you be admitted, we also all probably have different visit dates, reply deadlines, and enrollment deposits. Applying to more than one program at the same institution? They may also have different requirements. Pay attention to the nuances."

2. Prioritize Strong Recommendations and Complete Transcripts

You’ll need three letters of recommendation. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak directly to your academic and/or professional skills and character.

Fewer than two years of work experience: two academic and one professional recommendation
Three or more years: one academic and two professional recommendations
Four or more years: three professional recommendations.

When it comes to transcripts, unofficial copies are sufficient for the application process; official transcripts are only required upon enrollment. For international applicants, degree equivalency tools like World Education Services (WES) can help confirm your credentials.

Tip: Request recommendation letters and transcripts early. December is a busy month for both faculty and institutions.

Melissa's take: "The MPP is a professional program which requires rigorous academic preparation. For any applicants whose transcripts indicate past academic struggles, you may want to consider including an academic recommendation that addresses those concerns."

3. Tell Your Story Through Your Essays

Your Statement of Purpose should go beyond summarizing your résumé. Tell your story:

How have your experiences shaped your interest in public policy?
Why do you want to pursue a master’s degree in this field?
How does Duke Sanford’s MPP program fit into your professional goals?

Also include a Lived Experience Statement, a short supplemental essay that describes how your personal experiences and perspectives have prepared you for graduate study and a career in public service.

Tip: Think of your essays as answers to four key questions—Who are you? What have you done? What will you do next? How does Duke fit in?

Melissa's take: "I always like to say 'connect the dots.' Think of your application like a portfolio. How do all of the pieces fit together to tell one big story?"

4. Use the Video Components to Show Your Personality

The video sections are your chance to make a memorable impression.

Video Introduction (Required): You’ll receive a prompt, have 60 seconds to prepare, and up to three minutes to respond.
Curated Video Essay (Optional but Recommended): A one-minute video where you can highlight something unique about your background, interests, or personality.

Production quality is less important than authenticity. A simple smartphone video works perfectly. What matters is your enthusiasm and clarity.

Tip: Relax and let your personality come through. The admissions team wants to get to know you.

Melissa's take: "This is my first institution where the video component has been implemented and I love it! There is no standard outside of authenticity. Ideally your curated video is different from the required introduction. Some memorable ones for me are military professionals speaking from ships, people talking domestic politics while running, someone explaining the benefits of SNAP while cooking a meal on camera, a pet or child showing up while discussing your policy area of interest. You really can't go wrong."

5. Double-Check Your Application Before Submitting

Before hitting “submit,” make sure you’ve included:

Statement of purpose
Lived experience statement
Résumé
Transcripts
Video components

The registration details of three recommenders.

After submitting, use your application portal to track missing materials or fee waivers and to view your admission decision once released.

Tip: Don’t panic if official test scores or recommendations arrive a few days late. Just be sure they’re submitted within the following week.

Melissa's take: "Did you know you can ping your recommenders from the application portal if you find they are still missing from your application? To re-send notification emails, login to your Status Portal to re-visit the recommendations page, click 'Edit,' and then click 'Send Reminder.'"

6. Stay Connected with the Admissions Team

The Sanford Admissions Office is here to support you. You can:

Email the team
Schedule a virtual appointment with the Director of Admissions or Assistant Director
Connect with current students and alumni through Sanford’s ambassador program

Follow Duke Sanford on social media:

Engaging with the community is a great way to learn more about student life, coursework, and career outcomes.

Melissa's take: "We are absolutely here to help, but be sure to also check the FAQs on our website as some of our most common questions are answered there."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the strongest candidates can make small missteps that weaken an otherwise strong application. Here are six to avoid:

Restating your résumé in your essay. Use your statement to tell your story, not repeat bullet points.
Requesting generic recommendation letters. Specific examples matter more than impressive titles.
Waiting too long to request materials. Don’t risk delays during the busy holiday season.
Skipping the optional video essay. It’s your chance to stand out—use it.
Submitting without reviewing. Double-check every field and upload for completeness and accuracy.
Forgetting to explain “Why Sanford.” Admissions committees want to see that you’ve researched how Sanford fits your goals.

How to Demonstrate Quantitative Readiness

Highlight quantitative coursework in your transcript or résumé—courses like statistics, economics, or data analysis.
Describe real-world applications of data analysis in your work or internships.
Address any weaknesses by mentioning supplemental training or online courses you’ve completed.
Submit GRE scores (optional) if they reinforce your quantitative strengths. Use Institution Code 5156.
Link your data skills to your policy goals in your Statement of Purpose, for example, analyzing health data to inform equitable health policy.

Final Thoughts

Your MPP application is your opportunity to share your story, your values, and your potential to lead in public policy. By preparing early, focusing on authenticity, and demonstrating both your analytical and leadership strengths, you’ll position yourself to stand out in Duke Sanford’s holistic admissions review.

apply now

Get detailed instructions, deadlines, and other resources.