Now that the admissions application deadline has passed, the next step in the process is applying for financial aid. Though the financial aid application is not required, we strongly encourage every applicant—regardless of financial need—to complete it.
Our Outreach and Belonging Associates Nidhi Nair MPP 2026 and Maleni Palacios MPP 2027 recently hosted a panel with current students, who offered advice to applicants and answered their questions. Panelists included John Goncalves MC/MPA 2026, Ngoc Nguyen MPP 2026, Brendan Yap MPA/ID 2027, Nho Minh-Dinh MPP 2026, and Paige Swem MC/MPA 2026.
Below are some of the insights they shared during the session.
Believe in yourself
Many applicants spend time questioning whether they are deserving of certain fellowships and dismiss themselves early in the process. Have confidence in your experiences and apply for any and all fellowships that resonate with your goals and values.
Start as early as you can
The financial aid application requires you to write at least one essay (but likely more). These essays require thought and reflection, so don’t leave the application to the last minute.
Be authentic
You should be authentic about why you want to come to HKS and speak to who you are. Don’t just write about what you think the reviewers want to read. Applying for financial aid is a way to highlight your accomplishments and explain why HKS should invest in you.
Tell a compelling story
Thread a needle through your past, present, and future. While your goals for the future may change, having a general plan can help separate you from other applicants. Ask yourself “why should HKS invest in me?” and make your story clear in your financial aid essays. Highlight your values and find stories that speak to what you’ve done and why your work matters.
Show, don’t tell
Provide concrete examples of your work. Don’t just say “I care about my community” or “I care about democracy” or “I care about public service.” Instead, showcase policies or ideas that you have helped advance in your professional or educational experiences.
It can also help to research HKS and point to specific faculty, courses, or research center initiatives that align with your work and goals.
Keep your essays concise
The Admissions Committee reads thousands of essays, so it’s important to get to the point, write a compelling opening, and talk about how HKS is going to help you get to where you want to go.
Pay attention to the word counts listed on the application and follow these guidelines. Even if the application technically allows you to exceed the word limit, adhering to the guidelines demonstrates your attention to detail. Begin by writing all your thoughts, then start to edit by cutting out the “fluff” that doesn’t strengthen your authentic narrative.
