CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Harvard University is now accepting applications for its 2025 Public Policy Leadership Conference (PPLC), a fully funded program designed to introduce undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds to graduate study and careers in public service.
The four-day conference will be held Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, 2025, at the Harvard Kennedy School in Cambridge.
All major expenses including travel, accommodation, and meals will be covered by the university.
The initiative targets students early in their academic journey with the aim of increasing access to graduate education for those who may face systemic or structural barriers.
Participants will engage in policy workshops, connect with Harvard faculty and current Kennedy School students, and explore leadership pathways in government, nonprofits, and global institutions.
The event also offers exclusive insight into scholarships and fellowships available for future graduate study at Harvard Kennedy School and beyond.
The program is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA recipients, and non-citizen nationals.
To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year U.S. undergraduate institution, have completed at least two academic semesters by the time of the conference, hold a minimum GPA of 3.0, and demonstrate a strong commitment to public service.
Seniors graduating in the 2025–2026 academic year are not eligible.
Application materials include a résumé, academic transcript (official or unofficial), a personal statement, and one letter of recommendation.
The application deadline is July 7, 2025, at 12 p.m. ET.
PPLC alumni have gone on to pursue graduate degrees in public policy and hold leadership roles in federal, state, and local government, NGOs, international institutions, and advocacy organizations.
For more information and to apply, visit: PPLC Application Page.