The application to the Public Policy (PPOL) and Social Policy (SPOL) PhD programs for the 2024-2025 academic year will be available in September 2023.
The admissions process to the PPOL and SPOL PhD programs is managed by the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS). You must submit your admissions materials directly to Harvard Griffin GSAS—not Harvard Kennedy School—to be considered for the programs.
We receive applications from candidates with a wide spectrum of backgrounds and experiences, but all show interest in research and promise for distinguished careers.
We review all submitted applications, but focus on applicants with demonstrated ability and motivation to pursue research who have exceptional:
- Academic records
- Test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Quantitative skills
There isn’t a need for you to name your faculty advisor in your application. You will be assigned to one after you are admitted to our programs.
Deferring Admission
Deferrals are not common but are granted on a case-by-case basis.