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Spring Term Entry
SIPA’s Spring Term Option
STEM-Designated
MPA is STEM-eligible
Deadlines: Spring Term 2025
Application deadline:
October 15
Rolling Admissions
Decisions are released two weeks after a fully completed application is submitted.
Program Length
21 Months
Degree Awarded
MPA and MIA
Our spring term option (also known as “January term” or “J-term”) offers an unparalleled opportunity to start learning from prize-winning scholars, former ambassadors, policymakers, executives, and more as soon as possible. Whether you’re aiming to advance your career in international affairs, public policy, or economic development, Columbia SIPA provides the perfect environment to advance your career.
Don’t wait to start your educational journey. Enroll in our spring term to get more out of your SIPA experience.
Spring term students receive unique advantages.
- Two Internship Opportunities: Even if you start in January, school’s out for the summer. That means two internship opportunities instead of one, giving you more chances to apply SIPA skills.
- Two Cohorts: You arrive on campus with a smaller cohort, but a smaller cohort means you can better integrate yourself and make friends faster. Ride into the fall semester knowing your classmates well, and meet a whole new batch come September.
- Career Support: SIPA guarantees that the Career Advancement Center or an alumni mentor will review student resumes before enrollment to ensure incoming spring-termers have ample time to prepare summer internship applications.
Imagine gaining advanced knowledge and skills by starting a little earlier than the rest. Our spring term is for individuals ready to make a difference but unwilling to wait any longer.
Explore our Tuition, Fees, and Funding »
Connect with SIPA
Join our virtual Q&A sessions designed to answer any questions you may have regarding an application for spring 2025.
*The application fee for spring 2025 will be waived if you attend one of our Spring Q&A sessions.
Upcoming Events
My favorite aspect of the J-termer [spring term] cohort is undoubtedly the warmth and friendliness of the group. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly kind, open-minded, and eager to make a positive impact on the world. The diverse and interesting backgrounds of my classmates really add to the SIPA experience.
London Lee MPA ’26