Applicants for any of Medill’s graduate journalism specializations can choose to apply by one of three deadlines for the 2022-2023 school year, listed in the table below. The application review process is the same for all three Rounds, and all admitted students will be considered for merit-based scholarships regardless of the Round they choose. We recommend that students applying to start in a summer start specialization apply by the Round 2 deadline to have ample time to prepare for classes in June.

Each deadline has a corresponding decision notification date. Decisions are not released on a rolling basis; instead, applicants who have submitted completed applications by the deadline can expect a decision by the notification date below. A completed application means that all your transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation and required essays have been received by our office and included with your application. Applicants can view whether their application is complete by checking their application portal. Applications that are submitted but missing required elements, such as a letter of recommendation, will not be reviewed until all materials have been received. As a result, applications that are incomplete are not guaranteed a decision by their corresponding notification date.

Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis once all the application materials have been received in our office.

Applicants must choose ONE program specialization on their admissions application. The selected specialization will determine when you start the MSJ program (summer or fall). It is important to select a specialization that matches your desired quarter of entry. Please note: We recommend summer start applicants apply in Round 1 or Round 2.

Visit our application requirements page to learn about the items that are needed when you apply.

If you have any questions, please contact our admissions team.