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Pepperdine | School of Public Policy

School of Public Policy Admissions

To learn more about our admission process, and how our career-focused curriculum uniquely prepares our students for rewarding careers across the private, civic, and public sectors we invite you to explore the below pages. 

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Scholarship Information

Fall 2025 Application Deadlines

Stage Date Bonus Guaranteed Scholarship*
Early Submit** October 31 $5,000 Scholarship Guaranteed
Extended November 14 $5,000 Scholarship Guaranteed
Early December 17 $4,000 Scholarship Guaranteed
Priority January 31 $3,000 Scholarship Guaranteed
Regular March 25 $1,000 Scholarship Guaranteed
Final International June 1  As Available
Final Domestic July 10  As Available

*Bonus Scholarships only apply to non-P4 students. If you qualify for P4, you can view your scholarship benefits here. 

**The "Early Submit" deadline only requires the completion of the application form whereas the remaining deadline requires the submission of the application form as well as all other supplemental materials. 

 

campus stairway                       

Admission Requirements

GRE/GMAT/LSAT requirements are optional for fall 2025 applicants.

For any questions regarding the application process, please reach out to our Admissions Office.

We encourage applications for the fall semester from graduates of regionally accredited institutions in all areas of study. We provide a checklist of requirements, which includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an essay focusing on a moral and ethical point of view.

Contact the Office of Admissions

 

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International Applicants

The School of Public Policy's student body includes individuals from over 20 countries, so we assure our guidelines and requirements for international applicants are well-defined and up-to-date.

 

Financial Aid

Row of School of Public Policy students in classroom listening to the faculty member teaching - Pepperdine University

Scholarships are awarded to 95% of our students. Our Office of Financial Aid works with candidates to explore assistance options, loan programs, and Federal Work-Study.

 

Prospective Student Questions

SPP students - Pepperdine University

Over the years, prospective SPP students have had great questions about our unique program. We've assembled a few links to targeted SPP Blog pieces and our latest Dean's Report here to answer them.

 

Admission Events

Admission Questions

 When is the application deadline?

The School of Public Policy processes completed applications beginning October through July for each Fall term enrollment. Applications are reviewed on a rolling admissions basis. Please review our admission deadlines for more information.

 How can I make an appointment to visit the campus?

Please call the Admission Office to make an appointment at 310.506.7493.

Virtual Tour

 Can I attend a class?

Yes, please contact the Office of Admission to arrange a class visit at 310.506.7493.

 Is work experience required for admission?

No, we recognize that some students would like to continue their education immediately after graduating from their undergraduate institutions. In reviewing an applicant's file, volunteer activities, internships, and leadership experience are considered along with work experience. Typically, a student will have 2-3 years of work-equivalent experience.

 What kind of undergraduate degree should I have in order to study public policy?

There is no predetermined major required to study public policy.

 Is an interview required?

No, interviews are not required for admittance.

 Is there a minimum GRE requirement?

No, each application is reviewed individually, however, an average GRE score range in the 60% would be competitive. GRE/GMAT/LSAT requirements are optional for applicants.

 Is there a minimum GPA requirement?

No, each transcript is reviewed looking for grade trends. If the student has challenged himself or herself intellectually by taking courses outside of their major. The average GPA is currently 3.45.