Affording Kroc School: Admissions Requirements, Tuition, Aid and More

Earning a graduate degree is an investment in your career, your expertise, your impact and your finances. But even changemakers need a financial plan.

At the Kroc School of Peace Studies at the University of San Diego, we recognize that the decision to pursue an advanced degree involves practical considerations, especially as it relates to cost and admission.

Learn how to take the next step in your journey, from applying to affording graduate school at the Kroc School.

Admission Requirements

Kroc School students are visionaries, advocates and leaders. They bring with them a passion for justice and a track record of meaningful, purpose-driven work.

As a prospective student, your background should reflect a dedication to social change—whether through experience in social impact, community leadership, advocacy, nonprofit work, government service or international development. 

All applicants to our graduate programs must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate coursework. While no specific prior coursework is required, we expect strong academic performance and a clear alignment between your goals and our mission.

To apply, you will need to submit the following:

• A current resume or CV
• Two letters of recommendation, which should be written by individuals who can attest to your capabilities (academic, professional or personal).
  • In case of a GPA of 3.3 or lower, it is recommended that you provide at least one academic reference.
  • Alternatively, you may add a paragraph to your personal statement explaining why you think you could successfully complete the program.
• Short essay responses:
  
  • Four short essays for applicants to the Master of Arts in Peace and Justice (MAPJ), Master of Arts in Social Innovation (MASI) and JD/MAPJ programs
  • Three essay responses for applicants to the Master of Science in Conflict Management and Resolution (MSCMR)
• LSAT scores
  • Required only for JD/MAPJ applicants

Each of these components helps us understand your unique strengths, passions and potential as a changemaker.

Application Checklist for International Applicants 

If you are applying from outside the United States, the application process includes a few additional steps. International applicants must follow a specific checklist that includes documentation of academic records, proof of English proficiency and visa-related materials.

You can view the full checklist on the University of San Diego’s graduate admissions page for international applicants. Be sure to review all requirements carefully to ensure a smooth application process.

Once you have gathered and submitted all the necessary records and documents, your next step is to explore the financial resources available to support your graduate education.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

80% of Kroc School students receive scholarships or financial assistance, making their graduate education more accessible and helping to reduce the financial burden.

We know that financing graduate education is a top priority, which is why we provide a wide range of scholarships, fellowships, tuition discounts and loan opportunities to help make your degree more accessible. 

Institutional Scholarships

The Kroc School offers competitive, merit-based scholarships as well as mission-aligned awards for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to social impact.

Admitted students may will be invited to apply for Kroc School Merit Awards, which support those whose goals align with the School’s mission of peacebuilding, social innovation and justice.

Thanks to the generosity of alumni and benefactors, the Kroc School also offers privately funded endowed and current-use scholarships. These include:

• Alumni Endowed Scholarship 
  • Application
• Sandstone Care Scholarship
  • Application
• Tasty Placement’s Scholarship Program
  
  • Application

Note: Some private scholarships may require an additional application. If you are selected for consideration, you will be contacted with your next steps.

Additionally, the USD Graduate Grant Award, a need-based scholarship managed by USD’s Office of Financial Aid, is available to apply for after admission. 

External Scholarships & Fellowships

Students are also encouraged to pursue external scholarships and fellowships. Kroc students have received funding from nationally recognized programs, including:

• Fulbright: Alumni of the Fulbright Student Program are eligible for a 25% tuition discount.
• Americorps: Americorps Alumni who served full-time are eligible for a 25% tuition discount. Those who served less than full-time are eligible for a tuition discount that matches their Segal Award.
• Coverdell Fellows Program: Returning Peace Corps volunteers are eligible for a 50% discount on tuition for the Kroc School MAPJ program. Coverdell Fellows can also inquire to waive the application fee and apply 6 units of Peace Corps experience towards the degree.
• Teach for America: Teach for America alumni are eligible for a 25% tuition discount and application fee waiver.

Many more options are available through a variety of external organizations, foundations and government programs. You may also explore external opportunities through your employer, nonprofit networks and graduate funding search engines like Scholly Scholarships.

It is best to start your search early and focus on awards that align with your values and long-term goals in peace and justice, conflict resolution or social innovation.

Graduate Assistantships & On-Campus Work

Graduate assistantships and on-campus positions can further reduce your tuition while providing valuable professional experience. Kroc Ambassadors, for example, receive a modest tuition stipend in exchange for 40 hours of work each semester. These roles offer more than just financial relief during your education. They grant you the opportunity to build practical skills in a professional setting, preparing you for your future career.

Federal Aid & FAFSA

U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before being admitted and include as many schools as they like on the application. Financial aid offers will be processed once you are admitted into the school.

If you are eligible for FAFSA, loans can be a strategic investment, particularly in fields like peace and conflict studies, where your degree opens doors to leadership roles across sectors, ultimately helping you repay them.

For more information about federal aid, including the USD Graduate Grant, contact the USD Office of Financial Aid.

Programs & Tuition

The Kroc School offers four graduate programs designed to prepare students to lead change in complex global contexts. All programs are charged at a per-unit tuition rate of $1,296.

• Master of Arts in Peace and Justice (MAPJ): Total MAPJ tuition cost: $50,544
• Master of Arts in Social Innovation (MASI): Total MASI tuition cost: $38,880
• Master of Science in Conflict Management and Resolution (MSCMR): Total MSCMR tuition cost: $38,880
• Juris Doctorate/Master of Arts in Peace and Justice (JD/MAPJ): Total JD/MAPJ tuition cost: $38,880

With a variety of funding options, students can focus on their studies and their mission of creating positive change in the world.

Begin Your Application to Kroc School 

A Kroc School degree isn’t just an education—it’s the first step in turning your vision for a just world into reality.

At Kroc, financial concerns should not stand in the way of your aspirations. With a variety of funding options, scholarships and assistantships, we make sure that your education is not only attainable but also an investment in your future as a changemaker.

Take the next step in your journey today. Start your application to join a community of passionate individuals ready to create meaningful change, or connect with our admissions team for personalized guidance through the application process.

Your future in peacebuilding, innovation and leadership is one application away from being realized.

• Apply
• Connect with Admissions for one-on-one guidance
• Download the Changemakers Guide to discover the opportunities that await you at Kroc.