How to Apply-Nonprofit Leadership

Learn more about how to apply for Seattle University’s Nonprofit Leadership graduate program.

The early decision deadline is January 31. The priority application deadline is March 15.

After March 15 applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the cohort is full.

Application Review Process and Timeline

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through the final deadline or until the cohort is filled. Early submission by the early decision and priority deadline is encouraged to ensure consideration for the upcoming cohort as well as consideration for institutional aid scholarships. Please note that cohort coursework officially begins fall quarter.

International students should review the international admissions page for more information on deadlines, additional requirements and more.

International Admissions Information

Application Timeline for Fall 2025 Admissions

Early Decision Deadline January 31, application submitted with all required materials.
Priority Deadline  March 15, application submitted with all required materials.
Final Deadline July 31*, application submitted with all required materials.
Application Review 4-6 weeks post-submission, review by faculty committee and admissions staff
Notification of Admission 6-8 weeks post-submission, admissions decision released

*If you submit your application by the final deadline, you will receive your offer of admission in time for a Fall start.

  1. STEP 1

    Start the Process

    1. Research the Nonprofit Leadership (MNPL) program to see if it’s right for you
    2. Review Admissions Dates & Deadlines
      • The MNPL program offers a priority application deadline. After the priority deadline, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the cohort is full.
      • Applying by the priority deadline ensures full consideration for space in the cohort and consideration for institutional and program scholarships.

    Attend An Info Session

    This is an opportunity learn about our program and gain insights into the admissions process as well as connect with our faculty/staff and get your questions answered.

  2. STEP 2

    Begin Your Application

    Once you start an application you will be able to save your progress. You do not have to complete it all at once.

    The Nonprofit Leadership application includes the following elements:

    1. One short answer essay (250-500 words). Pick from the following prompts:
      • Describe your professional and personal goals and explain how you expect your education with the Nonprofit Leadership program to further those goals. OR
      • What questions do you have about nonprofit leadership, and how will your education with the Nonprofit Leadership program assist you to address those questions?
    2. Resume
      • Provide a professional resume documenting your education, volunteer work and professional experience.
      • Having at least one year of relevant professional experience in the nonprofit sector, paid or unpaid, is preferred.
    3. Two Recommendation Forms
      • Two recommendations from people who can speak to your professional and/or academic abilities and to your potential for leadership in the nonprofit sector. 
      • Once you've started your application, you will add their email address and they will receive a link to the evaluation form. The form should only take them 15 minutes to fill out.  
        • These forms are what is required for your application to be complete. However, we also accept letters of recommendation in addition to the required form. 
      • You may submit more than two recommendations. However, your file will remain incomplete until each recommender has submitted the necessary form.
    4. Bachelor’s degree or higher
      • Evidence of a four-year bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution.
    5. Minimum of 3.00 GPA
      • For information on GPA calculations for admission, please visit our Graduate Admissions How to Apply page.
      • Applicants with less than a 3.00 GPA might be considered for probationary admission and can submit an additional GPA explanation statement. Applicants with a non-graded bachelor's degree are required to submit a GRE/GMAT test score.
    6. Required Transcripts

    Start Your Application Today

    You will be able to save your progress while completing your application and will not have to complete it all at once.

  3. STEP 3

    Finish Your Application

    1. Submit your application
      • Make sure you hit “Submit” on your application once it’s complete.
      • Submitted applications are only considered complete once all application materials have been received including your recommendation forms and letters.
  4. STEP 4

    Check Your Application Status

    1. Check your status
      • You can login to check the status of your application anytime.
      • Submitted applications are only considered complete once all application materials have been received. This includes your recommendation forms or letters.
    2. Monitor your email
      • Make sure to regularly check the email you listed on your application for updates, including your admission decision.
      • Applicants should review the application timeline for information on when to expect an admission decision.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about the program or application, we’re here to help!

Ashley Miller

Senior Admissions Counselor

Ashley Miller Headshot