Graduate admissions and financial aid

How to apply for our academic programs, including admissions requirements, cost, and why La Follette is the right place for you.


Learn about our graduate programs by viewing a recorded information session.

How to apply

Admission requirements

We seek candidates who demonstrate the ability and experience to engage in rigorous public affairs programs.

David Wright-Racette with students
FAFSA application

Funding and Financial Information

Information on the cost of attending the La Follette School, including tuition, fees, financial aid, and other ways to help pay for your education.

Accelerated Admissions

The La Follette School of Public Affairs provides selected UW–Madison undergraduates an opportunity to jumpstart the Master of Public Affairs or Master of International Public Affairs program.

Students at the Union
Student at Friendsgiving

International Students

The La Follette School welcomes applications from international students. Learn about useful information when considering applying to the La Follette School of Public Affairs.

Admissions events


Information session recording


Why choose La Follette?

Portrait of La Follette School student Richmond Panford

Opportunities across campus provide students with financial benefits, such as tuition remission, and hands-on experience.

An aerial view of the Wisconsin Capitol

While public-sector retirements are rising, demand for public policy education is growing. Susan Yackee explains how the La Follette School is training the next generation of public servants.

Photo of UW–Madison from Lake Mendota

A tool created by the Wall Street Journal shows that the La Follette School offers one of the best values among public policy master’s degrees in the country.

Learn about the La Follette School

Ask questions and schedule an in-person or virtual visit

Watch lectures and learn about life at La Follette

Download course info, job placement data, and more

Contact students and alumni

  • Karly Martinez, MIPA

    Karly Martinez, MIPA

    “My ultimate goal is to work for the Institute for the Study of War on the Russia and Ukraine Team, where researchers collect open-source data and produce daily intelligence estimates that include…

  • Doug Bradley, MPA

    Doug Bradley, MPA

    “I did my research and absolutely fell in love with the program: the faculty expertise, the cohort size, being in the capital city, everything. I am beyond glad to now be in…

  • Ella Mitchell, MIPA

    Ella Mitchell, MIPA

    “I am passionate about reducing the administrative burden of receiving assistance and improving food systems through evidence-based policy.”