The UNC School of Government is committed to preparing public service leaders. As a public institution, we are also dedicated to serving the interests of North Carolina residents currently working in public service. We offer general MPA@UNC scholarships for which all students can be considered. Additionally, there may be opportunities for scholarships based on existing memberships in certain organizations. To be eligible, applicants must inform their admissions counselor that they have an active, regular (not student) membership at the time of application submission.

Approximately 85% of students get some sort of assistance through the following programs:

• MPA@UNC Scholarship
• Local Government Tuition Matching Scholarship
• National Military Family Association (NMFA) Scholarship
• Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP) Scholarship

Please speak with an admissions counselor for information about additional scholarships.

All incoming MPA@UNC students are considered for this scholarship, which recognizes individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the public sector. These scholarships are both merit- and need-based depending on the recipient. Scholarship amounts vary and will be disbursed on a per-credit basis.

In support of our mission—to prepare public service leaders—MPA@UNC provides scholarship opportunities to help those employed in local or state governments throughout the United States advance their careers and earn our top-ranked degree.

These scholarships, designed for admitted students who work for a local or state government employer, will match any tuition benefit funds provided by the employer, up to $10,000. Scholarships are awarded in addition to any employer-contributed benefits. Award amounts will vary depending on the employer’s tuition benefits policy and intended contribution.

To qualify, you must be a current employee working for a local or state government organization.

Students are eligible to receive multiple scholarship awards. Admitted students who qualify for the local or state government employer match scholarship are still eligible to qualify for an additional merit scholarship.

Awards are not paid as a lump sum, but rather paid out per credit hour in order to ensure completion of the degree. MPA@UNC has the right to amend scholarship-matching terms and availability.

The UNC School of Government is committed to helping spouses of military service members and veterans further their education and develop their skills. All spouses of active duty military members and veterans who are members of the National Military Family Association (NMFA) may be eligible for scholarships of up to $7,500. NMFA membership must be verified through 2U Inc., our program partner.

Members of Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP) are eligible for scholarships of up to $5,000, disbursed on a per-credit basis. This scholarship is designed to help young foreign policy professionals access our MPA program, advance their careers, and expand their networks. YPFP membership must be verified through 2U Inc., our program partner.

If you have questions or need help completing your application in time for your preferred start date, please contact an admissions counselor at 855-862-4672 or via email at admissions@onlinempa.unc.edu.