Application Information and Instructions

Applications Open

  • September 1 for the following academic year (i.e. 09/01/2024 for Summer 2025 and Fall 2025).

Deadlines

  • Early Decision Deadline: December 8, 2024
  • Application Deadline: February 7, 2025

Before the Application

To Apply, You Will Need the Following Information:

  1. First Semester to Enroll
    • For Regular Standing MSW, select Fall semester
    • For Advanced Standing MSW, select Summer semester
  2. Major Preference (Under the College of Social Science)
    • Regular Standing Clinical: Clinical Social Work (MSW) – (Masters)
    • Regular Standing Organization and Leadership: Organization & Community Leadership (MSW) – (Masters)
    • Advanced Standing Clinical: Clinical Social Work – Advanced Standing (Masters)
    • Advanced Standing Organization and Leadership: Organization & Community Leadership – Advanced Standing (Masters)
      Click here for more information on Clinical vs. Organizational Community Leadership.
  3. Joint Degree Program (Optional)
    • If you are applying to a joint degree, select one. (Note: You must apply and be accepted into the Law School or the School of Public Health separately).
  4. Program Preference
    • East Lansing
    • Statewide Blended
  5. Supporting Materials
    • Transcripts
    • Contact information for three recommenders
    • Academic Statement
    • Resume
    • Other materials: Based on responses to some questions in the application, additional documentation may be required (e.g., affidavit of support or court documents).

Application Instructions

We recommend downloading the complete instructions to assist with the application process and ensure submission of a strong application.

  • Online Application: Log in to the Slate Applicant Portal at Slate Applicant Portal to complete your application.
  • Official Transcripts: Official copies will be required for final application processing.
  • Recommendation Letters: Three letters from professional, academic, and/or volunteer settings. (Note: Advanced Standing applicants unable to get a recommendation from a previous practicum or undergraduate field office must explain why. Personal references, such as family friends or therapists, will not be accepted).
  • Academic/Applicant Statement: Required. Instructions for the Applicant Statement are available in the instructions document. (Personal Statement is optional).

Program Selection Notice

By applying to the Statewide Blended Program, applicants acknowledge that, if out of state, they must live within 50 miles of the Michigan border. Geographic verification and completion of the Additional Requirements Form are required before final admissions processing.

  • International Applicants: Review additional requirements on the International Admissions page.
  • Application Fee: Pay the $65 application fee ($75 for international applicants). Once paid, you will not be able to make changes to your application.

Tips from the Department

  • Review program options and apply accordingly. Incorrect program selection may delay application processing or result in rescinding an offer of admission if found ineligible.
  • Indicate interest in any certificate or scholar programs (Note: Certificate applications are submitted after MSW acceptance).
  • Personal References: (e.g., friends, peers without supervisory roles, pastor, mentor, high school advisor, coach) will not be accepted.
  • Advanced Standing Applicants: If unable to get a letter from a practicum or undergraduate field office, explain why.
  • Regular MSW Applicants: If your undergrad GPA is below 3.0, explain the circumstances and why you believe you can maintain a 3.0+ GPA in a graduate program.

After Submission of Application

  • Log in to the Slate Applicant Portal regularly to check your application status and respond to messages in the E-Message Center.
  • After an admissions decision, all students must complete a certification process that includes acknowledgment of the following:

All Applicants

  • Code of Ethics Agreement Form (for reference only).
  • For Statewide Blended Regular applicants: Complete the Additional Requirements Form to verify program eligibility.

Prospective Students