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Applying to Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) is an exciting milestone, but timing your application can be challenging. Whether you choose to apply now or wait, several key factors will affect your application’s success. This article, written by a former HKS alumni, Center for Public Leadership Fellow, and Founder of Write Track Admissions, covers considerations like academic readiness, leadership experience, market conditions, and funding to help you make the best decision for your future.
Can You Improve Your Academic Record?
A strong academic record is central to a successful HKS application. If your GPA or recent academic performance doesn’t reflect your full potential, it might be wise to delay applying. During this time, you can enroll in additional coursework or professional programs like HKS’s Public Leadership Credential (PLC) to showcase your growth and commitment to public service.
Can You Improve Your Standardized Test Scores?
Strong scores on standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT can boost your application. If your current scores are below your target, consider taking extra time to prepare more thoroughly. Waiting a year to improve your test scores through focused studying or test prep courses can make your application more competitive.
Can You Improve Your English Proficiency?
For non-native English speakers, strong TOEFL or IELTS scores are critical. If your language proficiency scores could be stronger, taking the time to improve your skills before applying may benefit you. Investing in language learning or tutoring could lead to a higher score and enhance your candidacy.
Can You Add Leadership or Professional Experience?
The Harvard Kennedy School looks for applicants with a strong track record of leadership and professional experience. If you’re expecting a promotion or are about to take on new responsibilities at work, waiting to apply could strengthen your application. Highlighting leadership roles, particularly those that show your impact in public service, can make your profile more appealing to the admissions committee.
Are Market Conditions Favorable?
The broader economic and job market conditions may also influence your decision. In times of uncertainty, pursuing a degree in public policy could give you a competitive advantage in career transitions. On the other hand, if you’re on the verge of a promotion or career shift, waiting until your professional goals are clearer might lead to a stronger application.
Do You Need More Time to Clarify Your Goals?
Having a clear vision for your future is essential when applying to HKS. If your goals are still taking shape, waiting to apply could give you time to refine your narrative and solidify your long-term objectives. Admissions committees value applicants who can clearly articulate how a Kennedy School degree fits into their career plans, so taking the extra time could improve your application.
Will Waiting Help You Secure Better Funding?
HKS is a significant financial investment. If funding is a concern, waiting a year could give you more time to save, apply for scholarships, or explore employer-sponsored tuition programs. Additional time may also allow you to discover fellowships or grants that can ease the financial burden of attending. If you have a better chance for funding now then later that should also factor into your overall decision-making.
Can You Get Stronger Recommendation Letters?
Your recommendation letters play a pivotal role in your application. If you feel your current recommenders can’t fully capture your strengths, waiting to apply could allow you to cultivate better relationships with mentors or supervisors. A well-written, personalized letter from someone who truly understands your potential can make a big difference in your application’s success.
Can You Show Greater Interest in HKS?
Finally, demonstrating genuine interest in the Harvard Kennedy School can enhance your application. Visiting the campus, attending information sessions, auditing a class or even enrolling in the PLC can show your dedication. These steps could also provide valuable insights into the program and help you tailor your application to better reflect what HKS values.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to apply to Harvard Kennedy School now or wait requires thoughtful consideration. If you can improve your academic record, test scores, or professional experience, or if waiting could help you secure more funding or stronger recommendation letters, delaying your application might be the best option. However, if you feel ready and confident in your qualifications, applying now could be the right next step.
We at Write Track Admissions have been helping clients make this decision and preparing them to be the best HKS applicants possible for over a decade. Feel free to contact us to learn more about our proprietary HKS-Admissions Assessment Program today!
