Admissions
The Hobby School uses a holistic approach to its admissions process, considering various aspects of each application received, including a candidate’s academic background, personal and professional experience and community work. The application review process considers a candidate’s passion for public service and commitment to making a greater impact through solving complex problems.
GRE Waiver/Requirement
Beginning in Spring 2023, the GRE is not required for applicants with a 3.3 or higher undergraduate GPA or if an applicant has completed a master's or doctoral degree. All other applicants are required to complete the GRE.
The GRE will be used as a factor in determining scholarship funding, so applicants eligible for a GRE waiver are still encouraged to complete the exam.
The Hobby School uses a holistic approach to its admissions process, considering various aspects of each application received. Although the GRE is an essential component of the application, no minimum scores are required. GRE scores will only be accepted if the exam was completed within the past five years of the application submission.
Application Deadlines
Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 Admissions
The Spring 2025 priority deadline for domestic and international applicants is September 1, 2024. The Spring 2025 application deadline for international applicants is October 1, 2024, and for domestic applicants is December 1, 2024.
The Fall 2025 priority deadline for domestic and international applicants is March 1, 2025. The Fall 2024 application deadline for international applicants is May 1, 2025, and for domestic applicants is August 1, 2025.
International applicants should visit the UH Graduate School's International Students page for more detailed information regarding transcripts, English language proficiency requirements and visa procedures.
Application Fee
- Domestic application fee: $50
- International application fee: $80
How to Apply
The UH Graduate School Application is completed entirely online.
Please follow these steps to complete your application:
1. Go to ApplyWeb, and click "Create Your Account." Fill in the requested fields to create an account.
2. Check your email for a message from accounts@applyweb.com. Click on the link in the message to activate your account, and log in to ApplyWeb.
3. Click "Online Application," and enter the requested personal information.
4. For "Program Choice," select the type of program and the requested term.
5. Enter your complete academic history.
Submit your official transcripts via one of these options. Electronic transcripts is the preferred method for Texas academic institutions.
Submitting official transcripts ASAP in the application process is strongly recommended. Unofficial transcripts refer to anything not received directly from an academic institution. Registration is not allowed until official transcripts have been received and verified.
International transcripts and degree certificates must be sealed and stamped by the issuing university. For more information on submitting transcripts for international applicants, visit the UH Graduate School's Transcript Information page.
Do not mail or drop off your transcripts to the Hobby School.
| Regular Mail Address | Express Mail Address | Electronic or Speede Transcript |
|---|---|---|
| University of Houston Graduate Admissions P.O. Box 3947 Houston, TX 77253-3947 |
University of Houston Graduate Admissions 5000 Gulf Freeway UH Technology Bridge Building No. 3, Rm. 170 Houston, TX 77204-2105 |
The fastest way to send your college transcripts is electronically. We strongly recommend that you inquire at your previous institution about this option. Within the State of Texas, transcripts may be sent from your previous institution as a "Speede" transcript. For non-Texas institutions, electronic transcripts can be delivered via secured email to gradschool@uh.edu from the academic institution. |
6. Enter your GRE test information, if applicable.
Beginning in Spring 2023, the GRE is not required for applicants with a 3.3 or higher undergraduate GPA or if an applicant has completed a master's or doctoral degree.
7. Submit two letters of recommendation.
Letters of recommendation are gathered electronically. Applicants will be asked to provide the email addresses of two references, preferably from a professional contact and the other from an academic reference. However, the recommenders can be either professional or academic.
Once the application is complete, the selected references will receive an email providing instructions to upload their letters of recommendation.
8. Submit a statement of purpose, resume, and answer any supplemental questions if asked.
The statement of purpose explains why the applicant wants to pursue the advanced degree and why the applicant would be a good candidate for the program. This document should be between 1-2 pages.
9. Enter awards and work experience.
10. Enter external scholarships and financial support information.
11. Enter citizenship, demographics, Texas residency questionnaire, and mandatory questions.
12. Complete the "Certificate of Information" page.
13. Submit the application.
14. Pay the application fee.
15. Track your application status using your ApplyWeb account, and check items still needed for admission review.
Please contact Scott Mason (smason@uh.edu; 713-743-5572) if you have questions concerning your application.
Master of Public Administration Mission Statement
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston provides a high level of training and education for aspiring public servants, public managers and nonprofit professionals to address complex societal challenges and lead organizations innovatively and ethically into the future. Located at a Carnegie-designated Tier One research university and connected to a dynamic city with international reach, MPA students delve into important public policy questions in a real-world setting. Students engage in these public problems through coursework, collaborations and meaningful conversations with those participating in the local decision-making process.