Application Instructions & Timeline

Important Dates for GSIP, SNLP, and MDOT Programs:

• December 1 – Applications Live
• March 1- Application Deadline
• April 1 – Applicants Notified of Application Status
• May 27 – Program Begins
• August 8 – Program Ends

Important Dates for the LAW Program:

• March 1 – Law Applications Live
• March 31 – Law Application Deadline
• April 18 – Applicants Notified of Application Status

Please read the below information about all of the components necessary to submit a complete application.

Application components apply to ALL potential MPSS applicants (MDOT, SNLP, GSIP, LAW Applicants)

 

To apply you will need to submit the following, saved as a .pdf or .doc, and each titled with your first and last name and type of document (ex: Joe Smith Resume):

• • Application Form: click the “Click Here To Apply” yellow button
  • References: Contact information for 2 professional/academic references (submit their info early to give them time to complete form)
  • Resume
  • Academic Transcript
  • Personal Statement
  • Writing Sample

 

REFERENCES

Within the application you will need to submit information for 2 professional/academic references. Best practice is to ask your reference if they are able to be your reference, prior to listing them. It is important to give your references time to consider your request and whether or not they have the capacity to be a reference at this time. You may submit your reference information prior to submitting your full application to give your references more time. Once you submit their information, an email will be sent to them containing a link to the reference form.

PLEASE NOTE (MDOT, SNLP, GSIP Applicants):

• • For applications due on March 1: recommendation forms must be received by 11:59pm on March 7.
  • Please let your references know to expect the form, and that we do not accept letters of recommendation in lieu of the form.

PLEASE NOTE (LAW SONDHEIM Applicants):

• • For applications due on March 31: recommendation forms must be received by 11:59pm on April 6.
  • Please let your references know to expect the form, and that we do not accept letters of recommendation in lieu of the form.

RESUME

Please upload your resume as part of your application.

 

ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT

Please upload a copy of your current institution’s transcript (unofficial copy is sufficient) as part of your application. If you transferred to your current institution or if you are a graduate or law student, please include transcripts from previous institutions in addition to your current transcript.

 

PERSONAL STATEMENT (500-800 words)

These programs are designed to equip you with skills to launch your career, and prepare you especially for careers in public service. Within your application, tell us about yourself and why you are interested in the program(s). How does participating in the program(s) fit into your life/career goals? What do you hope to gain through your participation in this program/How do you hope to grow? What has led you to explore a career in public service?

Use this as a chance to let who you are shine through.

We welcome your reflections upon your identity and background (i.e., culture/ethnicity, religion, socio-economic class, race, gender, sexual orientation, other…)

 

WRITING SAMPLE (800-1500 words)

Within your application, please submit a writing sample that explores an issue impacting the State of Maryland/Marylanders and showcases your interest in the subject and your ability to write clearly, synthesize and analyze. This may be something that was submitted for a course or something new you create (feel free to use our example prompt).  Please be sure to cite sources as appropriate.

Example prompt: Select an issue or policy impacting the state of Maryland that is of interest to you. Describe, specifically, how you would address and tackle this issue as a public service leader?

 

APPLICATION FORM

Applications for MDOT, GSIP, and SNLP are NOW OPEN for 2025.