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Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management (MNLM)

MNLM Admission

Potential for distinguished academic and professional achievement is the principal criterion for admission to the USC Price Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management program. In assessing an application, the admission committee evaluates:

  • Past performance as evidenced by grades, work experience and community service.
  • Future promise as indicated by letters of recommendation.
  • Commitment to educational and career goals, as demonstrated particularly by the writing sample.

In general, successful applicants will have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

Admission is to the fall semester only. As the admission review process does not include an interview, submitted materials should present an applicant’s qualifications clearly and completely.

» Application Materials
» International Application Materials
» Application Deadlines
» Funding

Application Materials

The following items are required to complete the applications process:
(NOTE: For your convenience, please use the Application Checklist)

  • a USC Graduate ApplicationFor step-by-step admission guidelines, visit: gradadm.usc.edu/apply
  • $90 application fee
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.  USC now accepts official electronic transcripts from all countries, provided that the transcript originates from a secure site formally linked to the sending institution. All applicants should have their university registrar send transcripts electronically to [email protected]. To expedite review of your application, you may upload **OFFICIAL** copies of your transcripts into your application but you must still have official transcripts sent electronically to [email protected]. If your university doesn’t send transcripts electronically, please have them sent to the address listed on the transcripts requirements page here.
  • Price has discontinued the GRE/GMAT requirement for admissions review. Applications will be reviewed holistically.
  • Current resume (submitted via online application: Supporting Documents upload)
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation, including at least one academic reference. Letters of recommendation must be submitted through the online application system. We will not accept letters of recommendation through postal mail.
  • Statement of purpose of approximately 750-1,500 words addressing the following questions:
    • Why do you wish to pursue the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management degree?
    • How will the Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management degree affect or enhance your career goals?
    • Please share how your experiences, background, and/or interests have shaped you and will shape your engagement in the Price community.
  • Completed USC Price Scholarship Application Essays (If you wish to be considered for USC Price-sponsored scholarships, complete the Graduate Application on-line)

International students must also submit the following :

  • Official TOEFL/IELTS scores – Official scores must be received directly from the testing service and date no earlier than 2 years (24 months) prior to the start of your intended first term at USC. (Institution code: 4852)
  • Official transcripts indicating the all degrees received with the title and date conferred in the applicant’s native language and an exact translation into English for each document
  • Financial Guarantee Statement showing proof of ability to pay all tuition and living expenses
  • To verify application requirements by country, please visit the International Student Admission page.

Application Deadlines

Important Dates

Fall 2025

  • Scholarship Deadline: December 15, 2024
  • International Deadline: May 1, 2025
  • Domestic Deadline: July 1, 2025