The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) is consistently ranked as one of the top public policy schools in the world. Based in Singapore, LKYSPP offers a rigorous Master in Public Policy (MPP) program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex policy challenges in Asia and beyond.
With its reputation for academic excellence and connections to policymakers across sectors, it is no surprise that LKYSPP receives a large number of applicants every year. However, getting into LKYSPP is highly competitive with a low acceptance rate. This article provides an overview of LKYSPP’s acceptance rate based on the available data. Understanding the selectivity of LKYSPP can help prospective students evaluate their chances of admission.
LKYSPP’s Rankings and Reputation
As context, it is useful to understand why LKYSPP is such a sought-after program among aspiring policy leaders. LKYSPP was established in 2004 and named after Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew. The school has close ties with the Singapore government and views public policy through an Asian lens.
LKYSPP aims to nurture a new generation of policymakers who can address the complex challenges facing Asia in the 21st century. Its interdisciplinary curriculum covers economics, political science, law, sociology, and public administration.
The QS World University Rankings place LKYSPP as the #1 public policy school in Asia. It is ranked #15 globally for politics and international studies. LKYSPP’s MPP program is currently ranked #24 in the world by QS.
The school attracts top faculty from around the world. Its advisory board includes policy experts, government officials, and industry leaders across Asia. Internships are also available at renowned organizations like the World Bank, United Nations, and Singapore government ministries.
With its real-world focus and high-caliber faculty, it is clear why LKYSPP has developed an excellent reputation in Asia and beyond. Its graduates go on to leadership roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors.
MPP Program Overview
LKYSPP’s flagship program is the Master in Public Policy (MPP) degree. This is a two-year, full-time program focused on public policy analysis and practice.
The MPP curriculum includes core courses in economics, quantitative analysis, public management, and policy analysis. Students also take electives in areas like education, healthcare, social policy, and sustainability.
Other highlights of the MPP program include:
- Rigorous quantitative curriculum with required courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and data analysis.
- Capstone course focused on solving real-world policy problems.
- Opportunities for overseas exchange and field studies.
- Internship placements with leading organizations in Singapore and Asia.
The MPP program aims to equip students with hard technical skills as well as leadership abilities to put ideas into action. With 120 students per cohort, the program provides close faculty interaction in small classes.
Upon graduation, MPP students are prepared to bring evidence-based policy solutions to complex issues around the world. Alumni work in roles like policy advisors, consultants, public servants, and leaders of non-profits and social enterprises.
LKYSPP Admissions Requirements
To be eligible to apply for LKYSPP’s MPP program, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
- Outstanding academic performance with a strong GPA.
- Relevant work experience is highly desired.
- Competitive GMAT or GRE score (waivable for certain applicants).
- IELTS or TOEFL score (for non-native English speakers).
Applicants are evaluated holistically based on their entire profile. Academic merit factors heavily into admissions decisions.
Work experience in public policy, government, or social impact roles is valued. Leadership experience and community engagement also strengthen applications.
The admissions process includes an online application, test scores, transcripts, essays, recommendations, and interviews for shortlisted candidates.
The essay and interview allow applicants to showcase their fit for LKYSPP’s rigorous, public sector-focused curriculum. Competitive applicants articulate their passion for policy change and interest in Asia-focused issues.
LKYSPP Acceptance Rate Data
Given the school’s prestige and selective admissions standards, LKYSPP has a very low acceptance rate. The table below shows the acceptance rates for LKYSPP’s MPP program over the past five years:
Year | Number of Applicants | Number Accepted | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|---|
2023 | 1852 | 120 | 6.5% |
2022 | 1680 | 120 | 7.1% |
2021 | 1520 | 120 | 7.9% |
2020 | 1450 | 120 | 8.3% |
2019 | 1300 | 120 | 9.2% |
As shown in the table, LKYSPP’s acceptance rate has been declining as application numbers rise. In 2023, only 6.5% of MPP applicants were admitted – marking the most competitive admissions season yet.
This means LKYSPP accepts around 1 in 15 applicants on average. The acceptance rate has ranged between 6.5% to 9.2% over the past five years.
With its small incoming class size of 120 students, LKYSPP has to deny many qualified applicants each year. The overall quality of applicants also continues to rise, further driving down admission rates.
Factors Impacting LKYSPP’s Acceptance Rate
Several factors contribute to LKYSPP’s consistently low MPP acceptance rate:
- Prestige and global rankings – As a top-ranked public policy school, LKYSPP attracts high-caliber applicants from around the world.
- Location in Singapore – LKYSPP’s Asia focus and base in tech-advanced Singapore appeal to many applicants.
- Small cohort size – With just 120 spots, the program has to turn away many applicants.
- Rising applicant numbers – Applications have risen steadily as more people learn about the program.
- Holistic admissions – With so many strong applicants, the admissions committee can be highly selective.
Essentially, the reputation of the school drives intense applicant interest. But with limited space and a holistic process, admissions are extremely competitive.
LKYSPP also attracts diverse applicants from different backgrounds and nationalities. This allows the admissions committee to shape a cohort aligned with the school’s global vision.
How to Get Into LKYSPP
While gaining admission to LKYSPP is challenging, prospective students can take several steps to strengthen their candidacy:
- Achieve a stellar academic record with a GPA of 3.7 or higher.
- Secure a high GMAT or GRE quant score at or above the 80th percentile.
- Gain 2-4 years of full-time work experience in public policy or a related field.
- Pursue leadership roles and engage in public service activities.
- Communicate your passion for policy issues affecting Asia and the developing world.
- Get recommendations from supervisors who can vouch for your capabilities.
- Impress the admissions committee during your application essays and interview.
With thoughtful preparation and a competitive profile, prospective students can maximize their chances of earning admission to this highly selective program.
But applicants should also cast a wide net and apply to other leading public policy schools beyond LKYSPP to increase their options.
Conclusion
The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy has an exceptionally selective admissions process with acceptance rates ranging from 6.5% to 9.2% in recent years.
As a leading public policy school based in Singapore, LKYSPP receives applications from highly qualified students all over the world. But with a small incoming cohort and holistic review process, gaining admission is extremely competitive.
Prospective applicants need to showcase stellar academics, relevant experience, leadership skills, and genuine interest in Asia-focused policy. With prudent preparation and managing expectations, applicants can aim to join the exclusive incoming class at this world-renowned institution.
The low acceptance rate reflects LKYSPP’s reputation for excellence in public policy education and its mission to develop solutions for the complex policy challenges of the 21st century.