Admission decisions for SIPA’s MIA, MPA, and MPA-DP programs will begin rolling out next week. We thank all the patiently waiting candidates sitting by their computers. It was a tough year reviewing application in terms of volume and system changes but we got through it and now we’re almost ready to release decisions — just making sure we’ve dotted our “i’s” and crossed our “t’s”.
But before the big release… we thought we would share some thoughts about decisions coming out.
You’ve Been Wait listed….
For many, being wait listed to SIPA can be difficult to handle. We understand how discouraging it can be to be placed on the wait list, especially if this is your first choice school. However, it’s not all bad.
If you are wait listed, it means that your application shows promise but there were more highly competitive and qualified candidates than we have places for in the class. There are just so many students we can admit into our class each year.
Please keep in mind that the Admissions Committee closely monitors the “wait-list” responses and sends updates to candidates.
Be aware however, that the number of candidates on the wait list can be rather lengthy. The wait list is not ranked and the Admissions Committee will review wait listed candidates based on documents already on file. It is therefore not necessary to send additional documents for the Committee to consider.
While there’s no harm in inquiring about your status or other application issues, there is a fine line between what’s appropriate and overdoing it. The only liability is harassing the admissions office and having them make a note on your file to that effect.
We will move candidates off the wait list — just a matter of time. Everyone on the wait list will receive a final decision by the end of the summer and some will be favorable decisions.
There is no guarantee that you will be admitted off the wait list. If at the end, you are not offered admission into the program, it is helpful to reflect on your admission’s portfolio.
As for trying again, if a degree from SIPA remains in your educational plans, we recommend that you consult with one of our admission representatives to get feedback on how to strengthen your application for a future term. In the majority of cases, we would recommend you wait an entire year before reapplying.
Good luck and stay positive!
