FAQs: Admissions

Back to FAQs Search

Is work experience required for admission?

While we do prefer to see about 2 years of relevant professional experience (including full-time, part-time, internship or volunteer experience), this is not a requirement of admission.  Students who do not have

Can I have my application fee waived?

The application fee can be waived for you if you demonstrate (through documentation) financial need at NYU Wagner’s discretion. You are welcome to upload documentation stating your financial hardship in the "financial aid" section of the application. Waivers are also granted to the members/alumni of certain programs, including Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, U.S.

Can I keep my full-time job while I go to Wagner?

Yes, definitely. About 40% of entering Wagner students are "part-time" students, working full- or part-time while attending Wagner. These numbers actually go up during a student's time at Wagner, with many students finding jobs (often through help from career services, Wagner alumni, or faculty), and changing from full-time student status to part-time.

Does NYU Wagner offer interviews?

Interviews are only part of the admissions process for those who are fellowship semi-finalists, as well as some EMPA and dual-degree candidates (BA/MPA, BA/MUP, and BS/MUP), at the request of the review committee. An interview is not part of the application process for MPA, MSPP, and MUP applicants.

What is the prompt for the NYU Wagner Letter of Recommendation?

Please write candidly and analytically about the applicant's qualifications and potential to carry on advanced study. Treatment of both strong and weak points will be helpful in describing such attributes as motivation, intellect, maturity, and other relevant characteristics.