MPM FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the MPM programme offered on a part-time basis?

No.
How often are the lessons held?

Lessons for a module are held weekly, with each session lasting 3 hours. The MPM is a full-time programme and students are expected to be available on all days in the morning and afternoon for lectures, make-up lectures, seminars, workshops, group discussions, site visits and executive programmes.
What is the mode of assessment?

Students are assessed via examinations and continual assessment (eg project work and assignments).
When will the classes for the MPM programme commence?

A 3-week orientation in July will take place prior to the actual commencement of classes in early-August.
When will the course schedule for the MPM 2013 programme be available?

The course schedule will be available in June 2013.
What is the duration and structure of the MPM programme?

It is a 1-year full-time programme. Up to one semester of the programme will be spent at the John F Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University or the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University.
How big is the MPM class size?

We usually have 20 to 25 students in each class.

Can I choose the Singapore ministry or government agency that I want to be attached to?

The School will try to cater to students’ interests as much as possible. However, this is often subject to availability.

Can I choose to complete more modules at the overseas partner university?

This is decided on an individual basis, subject to approval from the School. There will be additional costs for curriculum materials.
Can I choose not to go overseas and to complete the modules with the partner university in Singapore?

No, the overseas segment at a partner university is a compulsory component of the MPM programme.

How do I know if I qualify for the MPM programme?

The admission requirements and criteria are stated in the application booklet. Please note that minimum requirements do not imply automatic admission into the programme. You may send in your application if you meet the basic requirements.
As a fresh graduate, am I eligible to apply for the MPM programme?

No, the MPM is targeted at senior officials who hold key positions in their respective organisations. Their leadership role should be acknowledged within their own organisation and they should possess the potential to move into more senior positions.

What are the minimum scores required for TOEFL and IELTS?

For TOEFL, the minimum score required is 580 (paper-based test), 237 (computer-based test) and 85 (internet-based test). For IELTS, a minimum score of 6.5 is required.
Is TOEFL/IELTS required if the medium of instruction of my undergraduate or graduate studies is English?

Test scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) must be submitted for all international applicants except those whose undergraduate or graduate degrees are from English-medium institutions in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Singapore.
Is GRE required?

No, but applicants are encouraged to take the GRE and submit their scores.

What are the fellowships being offered?

The fellowship available for the MPM programme is the Lee Kuan Yew Fellowship/School of Public Policy Graduate Fellowship. You can find more information on the Fellowship here.
How do I apply for the fellowships that I am eligible for?

The Lee Kuan Yew Fellowship/School of Public Policy Graduate Fellowship Application Form can be found on page 29 of the application booklet.

Do you offer other programmes beside the MPM?

The School also offers the Master in Public Policy (MPP), Master in Public Administration (MPA), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Senior Management Programme (SMP) and Executive Training Programmes.
Can I apply for the MPM and MPA at the same time?

Yes, you can. However, you are required to submit two separate applications. You should apply for the programme that is more relevant to your work and career needs. The two programmes also have different application deadlines and commencement dates.

What are the tuition fees payable?

Please refer to the fees schedule.
Are all costs at the partner university included in the tuition fees?

No, other costs such as accommodation and curriculum materials are not included. Please refer to the fees schedule for details on costs.

What is the application procedure?

Please refer to pages 3-5 of the application booklet. Interested candidates should submit all required documents to the school as soon as possible. If a candidate is shortlisted, there will be an interview. This may be a face-to-face interview in the candidate’s home country or a telephone interview. In addition, there may also be a test to determine the candidate’s English proficiency and quantitative skills.
I am still waiting for some documents (eg reference letters) to reach me and may miss the application deadline. What can I do?

You may send in the application form and the available materials before the deadline and furnish the rest later.

How do I obtain an application form for the MPM 2013 programme?

Please visit the Apply for MPM now to download the application booklet.
Can I use the application form from previous years?

No, you are required to submit the current application booklet.

How much is the application fee?

The application fee has been waived.
How do I make payment for the application fee?

You do not need to make payment. The application fee has been waived.

When will I know the outcome of my application?

The outcome of the applications for the MPM 2013 programme will be announced around May 2013.
How will I be informed of the outcome?

All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application via e-mail and post.

Enquiries

For enquiries, please contact (65) 6516-6134 or email to