Harvard HKS MC/MPA-ID waitlist rejected.

I recently got rejected from Harvard MC/MPA-ID program, and wanted to post my profile to understand where I fell short and how can I improve.

Profile
Bachelors in Urban Planning from School of Planning and Architecture Delhi, India

Masters in Urban Design, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Work exp

1. Four yrs in India at a global environment policy think tank, worked on water and sanitation in the global south

2. Four years as Urban Planner at Municipal govt in Calgary, in Alberta Canada, processing development permit applications for various types of residential and commercial developments. Checking Policy and city bylaw compliance with developments.

In my essay, I spoke about my desire to work in international development and require this degree to learn the skill set and prepare for leadership roles. My previous exp in water and sanitation and leadership exp in Canada would help me excel in the international sector.

I did not submit a GRE or gmat, was put on the waitlist and got rejection on June 1 2026 that broke my heart. According to my analysis, my application was weak on 2 aspects.

- First, the program is for people with atleast 7 yrs of work experience, and the average yrs of experience for admitted students is 14 yrs. I have 8 yrs of experience.

- My quants classes grades are about B or B-. Since the program is quant heavy, a good GRE score could have helped.

I am thinking to now apply for the regular 2 yrs MPA/ID program with GRE since I am not sure if my lack of experience compared to the admitted cohort is is short by about 6 yrs. please guide.