Graduate Applicants

The department reviews completed applications for graduate admission on a rolling basis. For fall admission, applications received by March 1 will receive primary consideration for scholarships and admissions. Applications received thereafter are reviewed on a rolling basis, provided space remains in the incoming class.

For spring admission, applications received by October 31 will receive primary consideration for scholarships and admissions. Applications received thereafter are reviewed on a rolling basis, provided space remains in the incoming class.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online via Gradmit:

Applicants interested in applying for the JD/M.U.P. dual degree program must complete two separate applications, each being received by the respective departments of Law and Urban and Regional Planning:

Download paper copies of application forms and procedures:

Or contact:

Department of Urban and Regional Planning

University at Buffalo
116 Hayes Hall
3435 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14214-3087
phone: 716 829 2133 x109
e-mail: ap-planning@buffalo.edu

Complete applications must include:

  • A 500-word essay describing your interests in planning and your aspirations for the M.U.P. degree. Please be specific about influential courses, instructors, books, personal or professional experiences, and goals.
  • A résumé that outlines your work and educational background and experiences.
  • Official transcripts bearing an original seal of the registrar from all post-secondary educational institutions that you have attended. Transcripts should be sent directly from these institutions. Please allow sufficient time as it often takes up to four weeks to complete this process. Current University at Buffalo undergraduate students need not send UB transcripts, but should send transcripts for any other institutions attended.
  • Three recommendations submitted on our official recommendation form. Please identify in your application the names of persons who will be writing recommendations. You are strongly encouraged to arrange for at least one from a person who knows your academic work. Please ask persons completing recommendations to return them directly to you in a sealed envelope with their name signed across the seal. Please include the three sealed envelopes with the other application materials.
  • Nonrefundable application fee in the form of a check or money order payable to the University at Buffalo for $50 for an online application (may be paid electronically by credit card) or $70 for a paper application. (Fees are subject to change.)