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These are the answers to our most frequently asked questions covering both the MSc in Public Policy Research and the Public Policy 1+1. Please also read the FAQs on both the MPP and MSc pages for further detail, and 
the Oxford University Graduate Admissions website carefully as it contains more comprehensive information on the selection criteria and application process for the MSc and Public Policy 1+1.

We also suggest that you visit our Blavatnik School of Government Blog where we have posts about preparing your applications, searching for funding, moving to Oxford with your family and what life at the School is like.

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  • How do I apply for the Public Policy 1+1 programme?

    If you wish to apply for the Public Policy 1+1 programme, you will need to apply for and be accepted for both the MPP and the MSc. You should mention in the personal statement for both your applications that you are applying for the Public Policy 1+1 programme.

    The application and assessment processes for these courses are separate. Whether or not you have applied for the Public Policy 1+1 will not have an impact on your application to either course – we ask you to mention it to ensure that we identify your application as 1+1. You should expect to hear an outcome for both courses in late March. More information is available on the Public Policy 1+1 graduate admissions website.

  • For the Public Policy 1+1, can I do the MSc first, and then the MPP?

    No. Students who opt for a 1+1 admissions entry are required to take the MPP in the first year and the MSc in the second year. This sequencing is required because the MSc is designed for students who have already taken our MPP. The MSc builds upon pre-existing knowledge about the public policy process, training in leadership and the core skills of policymaking and implementation that the MPP provides.

  • For the Public Policy 1+1, can I apply for the MPP in January and the MSc in March?

    No, to be considered for the Public Policy 1+1 programme, you must apply for both the Master of Public Policy (MPP) and the MSc in Public Policy Research at the same time using the January deadline for both programmes.

  • Should I submit an identical personal statement for my Public Policy 1+1 application?

    No, the requirements for the personal statement for the MPP application are different to that of the MSc. The application and assessment processes for these courses are separate. More information on the criteria for your personal statement can be found on the Graduate Admissions website for each course.

  • Can I receive guidance on my suitability for the programme by submitting my CV?

    No, the Blavatnik School of Government receives a very large number of applications and enquiries each year. In the interest of making the admissions process as impartial and fair as possible, it is not possible to offer feedback to some candidates when the privilege cannot be extended to all. Therefore, the department cannot provide individual guidance on suitability for the course, but would rather encourage you to read the selection criteria carefully.

  • Can I take a gap year between the MPP and MSc?

    No, the Public Policy 1+1 is a consecutive two-year programme of study. If you wish to have a gap year between the MPP and the MSc you should first apply for the MPP only. Then in the admissions cycle prior to the MSc, you should apply again.