Application Deadlines and Requirements

  • When can I start filling out my application for the program?
  • Now! The 2025-2026 UC Davis Applications are now open. You can initiate your application here: https://grad.ucdavis.edu/apply.
  • Will late applications be accepted?
  • No, all applications are due by 11:59 PM (PST) on December 1st.
  • What if my GPA doesn't meet the 3.0 requirement?
  • Please still consider applying! Our Admission Committee reviews each application holistically, meaning GPA is just one aspect of the review. Be sure to explain the reason for the low GPA in your personal history statement, and focus on highlighting your strengths in the other components of the application.
  • Do I need to secure a faculty mentor before applying?
  • No, but we highly recommend that you reach out to faculty of interest before submitting your application to get a better sense of lab availability, current research projects, and funding expectations. 
  • What if I don't have all of the pre-requisite courses completed prior to applying?
  • That's okay! It is common that applicants are missing a course or two when they join the program. If recommended for admission, our Course Guidance Committee and Academic Advising Team will work with you to determine any courses that you may need to complete. If there is a chance that you can complete coursework either at your current home institution or a community college, we highly recommend you meet with an academic advisor at your current institution to discuss this option. 
  • Can I get the application fee waived? 
  • Domestic PhD applicants can apply for the CBS Fee Waiver Application. At this time, the program is not able to offer fee waivers for M.S. or Non-Domestic applicants. 
  • Where do I go if I have questions about the language proficiency requirements? 
  • For more information about English Language Proficiency guidelines and waivers, please visit the Graduate Studies Website here: https://grad.ucdavis.edu/english-language-examinations.
  • What should I focus on when completing my application?
  • When reviewing applications, our Admission Committee focuses on the following areas: Academic Preparedness, Relevant Experience, Letters of Support and Statements of Purpose, Alignment with Program. Each application is reviewed holistically with these core values in mind. We encourage you to approach your application as if you are a curating a story about who you are as a scientist and why you feel this program is the best fit for you!
     

Degrees Offered

  • I have my Bachelor's Degree but haven't completed a Master's Degree, Can I still apply for the PhD?
  • Yes, Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree holders are both eligible to apply for our PhD program. 
  • Can I apply to the MS in Animal Behavior?
  • No, students can not apply for admission to the MS in Animal Behavior
  • What if I start a PhD and want to complete an MS?
  • Students who are no longer able to complete the PhD should first consult with their Major Professor and Graduate Academic Advisor about options.

Financial Support

  • What financial support can I expect as a graduate student? 
  • Financial support can come in many different forms for ABGG affiliated graduate students. PhD students recommended for admission will receive a fellowship offer letter that outlines the financial support that the graduate group will provide. All students are able to  apply for Teaching Assistant positions and Graduate Student Researcher positions. Historically, ABGG PhD students have been able to fully support themselves through a combination of fellowships (both internal to UC Davis and external), teaching positions, and research positions. Admitted students should consult with their Faculty Mentor to discuss funding expectations and options. 

Recruitment Timelines

  • I submitted my completed application on December 1st. When can I expect to hear back?
  • Application reviews will take place during December and the first two weeks in January. Invitations for recruitment events will be sent to successful applicants by the third week in January.
  • What does the recruitment process look like?
  • Finalist applicants will be paired with a faculty mentor and student host during their visit to UC Davis. Our in-person recruitment events take place over two days. These days will consist of an overview of the program, introductions to faculty, staff, and students, laboratory and facility tours, interviews, and faculty and student socials/dinner. After the recruitment events have concluded, applicants who are recommended for admission should expect to hear from the program by March 15.