Admissions Overview
Notice: The 2026-27 Graduate Admissions Application cycle is now closed.
While the UC Davis Graduate Studies Admissions Process Overview addresses most campus-level questions, our graduate program staff is available to provide additional details or specific guidance for the English Ph.D. program.
Application Status & Review
- Current Applicants: Applications are reviewed once all supporting materials have been received. To track your status, please check the online application portal.
- Future Applicants: Information on this page is provided for planning purposes. The application for the next cycle (2027-28) typically opens in early September.
Application Checklist
To be considered for the Ph.D. program, please submit the following:
- Statement of Purpose: Focus on your research interests and career goals.
- Personal History and Diversity Statement: Tell us about your background and how it shaped your decision to pursue a degree.
- Writing Sample: (See below for specific length and formatting requirements).
- Three Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from faculty who can speak to your academic potential.
- Transcripts: Unofficial copies from every college-level institution attended.
- English Language Testing: TOEFL or IELTS scores (for international applicants, if applicable).
- Application Fee: Paid at the time of submission.
Pro Tip: Check the Graduate Studies Eligibility Page to ensure you meet the minimum GPA and degree requirements before applying.
Writing Sample
Your writing sample is a critical component of the application, allowing the committee to evaluate your research skills, analytical depth, and prose style.
Requirements:
- Quantity: Submit one or two research or term papers (originally completed for English courses).
- Length: The combined total should not exceed 30 pages.
- Exclusions: Images and bibliographies do not count toward the 30-page limit.
Recommendations for a Strong Submission:
- Currency: If your writing sample was completed more than two or three years ago, we strongly recommend revising it to incorporate more current research and scholarly sources.
- Polish: Please ensure your papers are carefully proofread. Your submission should reflect your strongest written work and your readiness for doctoral-level research.
Application Fee Waivers
Please note that the English Ph.D. program is unable to provide departmental application fee waivers.
However, UC Davis Graduate Studies offers fee waivers to domestic applicants who have participated in specific graduate preparation programs (such as McNair Scholars, UC LEADS, etc.).
- Eligibility: You may visit Graduate Preparation Programs Eligible for Fee Waivers for the full list of programs.
- How to Apply: If eligible, you must request the waiver within the online application system before submitting your application.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation are required for a complete application. These should be written by individuals qualified to evaluate your potential for advanced academic research and doctoral-level study.
- Preferred Sources: We strongly prefer letters from faculty members who have supervised your postsecondary studies (undergraduate or graduate).
- Key Areas to Address: Your recommenders should speak to your research ability, academic achievements, and, if applicable, your experience in teaching, tutoring, or mentoring.
- Submission: All letters must be submitted electronically through the UC Davis online application system. You will provide your recommenders' contact information in the portal, and they will receive an automated link to upload their letters.
Pro Tip: We recommend reaching out to your professors at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline to give them ample time to write a thoughtful letter.
Gather Your Unofficial Transcripts
Transcripts are required from all college-level institutions. You may use unofficial transcripts uploaded as .pdfs for your UC Davis application. Official transcripts are only required if you are an admitted student. You must list every college-level institution you have attended in the online application, including all community colleges, study abroad coursework, etc. If your college or institution does not use the 4.0 scale, do not attempt to convert your GPA. On the application, enter your GPA just as it is on your transcript.
International Applicants
International applicants should review the International Applicants page for additional requirements and guidance.
Funding & Support
All students admitted to the Ph.D. program receive five years of guaranteed funding. This support is typically provided through Teaching Assistant (TA) and Associate Instructor (AI) appointments.
What is covered:
- Tuition & Fees: Full remission of Resident Regular Tuition and Health Insurance.
- Stipend: A competitive monthly salary to assist with living expenses.
Additional Funding Opportunities:
- Research Roles: A limited number of Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) positions are available.
- Summer & Progress Support: Summer stipends and progress-based awards may be available through funding allocated by Graduate Studies.
- Travel & Research Grants: Students can access departmental funds, such as the Miller Travel Fund, to support travel for conferences, research, and professional interviews.
Graduate Program Contacts
We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the Ph.D. program or funding structure.
Aaron Barstow
Graduate Program Coordinator
[email protected]
(530) 752-2738
Michael Ziser
Director of Graduate Studies
[email protected]
(530) 752-1696