HKS students walk through the HKS courtyard in the fall

Interested in applying to HKS for the 2027-2028 academic year? The application is open until 12 p.m. (noon) ET on Tuesday, December 1, 2026.

We’ve put together a suggested application timeline to keep you on track throughout the application process. Note that this is intended to be a suggested timeline to reference as you prepare all required materials. All applications and supporting materials must be received by the December 1 deadline.

  • December 01, 2026
    Submit application and pay application fee

    The master's degree application is due on Tuesday, December 1, 2026 at 12 p.m. (noon) ET.

    After submitting your application, you will be prompted to pay the $100 USD application fee, which may be paid by credit card, check, or money order. You can also request an application fee waiver if you are a participant or alumni of certain programs or if you require a waiver in order to apply. 

  • November 2026
    Review your application

    Make sure your recommenders have submitted their letters and remind them of the December deadline if they have not. Confirm you have uploaded all required transcripts or have requested for them to be sent to HKS. Edit and proofread your essays. Most importantly, ensure all your materials are in the application portal before the deadline.

  • October 02, 2026
    Attend our Fall Open House

    Our Fall Open House is a great way for prospective students to learn about our master's degree programs, the admissions and financial aid application process, student life, and more. You will have the opportunity to attend several information sessions with staff, interact with current students, and familiarize yourself with the HKS community.

  • September 2026
    Send English proficiency testing scores

    Non-native English speakers who did not earn an undergraduate degree conducted in English must submit proof of English language proficiency. Additionally, all applicants who are required to submit English proficiency scores will also be required to submit a video essay as part of the application process.

    If you earned an undergraduate degree conducted entirely in English, you do not need to submit proof of English language proficiency, regardless of your native language.

  • September 2026
    Gather your academic transcripts

    We require submission of transcripts for all colleges and universities you have attended and earned academic credit. This includes institutions where you may have taken courses but did not receive a degree. Applicants have two options for submitting academic transcripts: 

    1.) You may upload unofficial copies of your transcripts directly to your application for admission (recommended).

    2.) You may request that your college or university send official transcripts directly to our office.

  • September 2026
    Update your resume

    A résumé is required of all applicants. This document should highlight your employment history, including titles, dates, and job responsibilities for each position; academic degrees, achievements, and honors; volunteer, public service, and political work; recent leadership experiences; and extracurricular activities and interests.

  • September 2026
    Contact your recommenders

    As part of the application process, you are required to submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who know you and are familiar with your work. Once you identify who you would like to write your letters of recommendation, make a point to reach out to them early, let them know you are applying to HKS this cycle, and ask if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. 

  • September 2026
    Begin writing your essays

    All of our master’s degree programs require that you submit several essays, which vary by program. Start early so you have time to reflect on your experiences, goals, and motivations and craft a cohesive narrative.

  • September 2026
    Register for the GRE or GMAT (if applicable)

    If you’re applying to the MPP, MPA, or MPA/ID Program and haven’t already taken a required test, register now. See the How to Apply page for full details about our GRE/GMAT requirements by program.

    We strongly recommend that you take all required exams no later than one month prior to the application deadline to account for any processing delays.

  • August 31, 2026
    Apply for a GRE/GMAT waiver (if eligible)

    MPP and two-year MPA applicants who have completed certain quantitative coursework can waive the GRE/GMAT. If you missed the August 31 deadline, you will have to submit test scores to complete the application.

Ready to apply to HKS?

The application for the 2027-2028 academic year is now available.

How to Apply Start Your Application
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