Applying to this HESAL Program
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Get Started – You can Begin Fall 2025
Recommended Application Deadlines
This program is accepting applications for the fall 2025 semester.
We recommend that you apply approximately 60 days before the program start. Recommended deadline: June 15.
You may still be able to apply after this date, but if the date has passed please contact the Admissions Coach for support to apply and begin classes in the upcoming term. View the UNC Academic Calendar for the start dates for upcoming terms.
Application Process
Thank you for your interest in this UNC graduate program! You will complete the UNC Graduate School application and then submit additional materials. Please review the Eligibility section of the Program Summary page prior to application.
U.S. applicants (outside of Colorado) for online programs: please be sure to check your eligibility by state of residence.
Step 1 – Apply
Apply to the UNC Graduate School. You will start a "UNC Graduate School Application." The following bullets will support you as you complete the application and material submission process.
On the application, choose the following program:
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Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership (M.A.)
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Request 3 academic or professional letters of recommendation from those who can attest to your academic potential and abilities. You will be asked to supply contact information for your recommenders in the application.
International applicants: please visit the International Students Admission Requirements page for information about additional requirements.
If you are unable to complete your application in one session, you can log back in to your application later to complete it. The application fee process will appear once you submit your application.
Step 2 - Submit Supplemental Items
You will then continue in the system (or log into the Admissions Portal) to complete the following:
All applicants will need to request one official transcript from each regionally accredited college or university where a bachelor's degree or higher was earned (or is in progress). Some applicants may need to provide additional transcripts. Situations that require this are listed on the Graduate School website (choose Domestic or International). Directions for having your official transcript(s) sent are listed in the Application Portal.
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Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
- Statement of Goals (double spaced and no more than two pages in length)
- Why are you interested in becoming a student affairs professional?
- What have been some of your experiences with social justice so far and how do you hope to incorporate it into your graduate experience and beyond?
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Why are you pursuing this online MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership at UNC?
The application portal will also show you which of your recommendations have been completed.
Note: the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is NOT required for this program.
Once you apply to the UNC Graduate School and your application packet is complete, your application will be reviewed by the graduate school then sent to the faculty/program for an admission decision. The timing of the admission decision depends on each individual program’s deadline and review process.
