Admissions FAQs

Can you send me an application and brochure?

The sociology department does not provide brochures. For details about Sociology’s Graduate Program, see the online Grad Program Handbook. The Grad Admissions Application is also available online at http://graduateapp.ucsd.edu/.

Is there a minimum GRE score?

We do not have a baseline acceptance score for the GREs, but the last few years’ scores have been extremely competitive. The GRE scores are considered as one factor or measure amongst many other factors in determining suitability to the program in terms of research fit and ability to succeed. 

What is the average number of international students does your department admit each year?

There is no predetermined average or number of international students that are accepted. From year to year, we may admit and make offers to the most competitive international students whose research interests fit the program and the department. Some years we make multiple offers, other years we do not make any offers.  Our cohort size ranges from 9-12 students.

Does your department provide scholarships for international students?

Funding support is available and considered for all applicants, domestic or international, but is not guaranteed in any way. It is to the applicant’s best interest to consider additional supplemental support or alternate means for supporting their education in this program.

May I send photocopies of the GRE official report to you for application?

Unfortunately, it is required to for us to receive an official report from ETS. Photocopies will not be accepted by the University for admission.

Is it possible to be enrolled in the program part-time or to take a leave of absence?

Part-time status is not an option.  This program is not a part-time program, but after advancing (qualifying – usually by end of 4th yr) students are enrolled and are working independently on research. Students can take up to 3 quarters of leave over the length of earning their degree (6 years is the normative time). There are exceptions to the three quarters limit for maternity/parenting leave.


If I already earned an MA in Sociology, would it be possible to transfer my previous graduate coursework to UCSD, or would I need to start from the beginning?

Graduate students who have received either a master's degree or its equivalent from other universities will not receive another M.A. at UCSD. They may petition to waive courses that appear to repeat work they have already successfully completed. Petitions requesting course exemption are to be submitted after the student has begun the program. Additional seminars will be required in place of a course being granted exemption.

With an MA you may petition for exceptions and waive out of taking certain courses and requirements if it appears there is duplication, but you will still be required to complete the same number of total courses (units) required in the program.  Therefore, having an MA does not necessarily shorten the program. We suggest that you meet with the graduate adviser early on to assist in charting your course schedule.

Is it more difficult to enter the program being a previous student of the university? Would you highly discourage this course of action?

There is a lot of mythmaking around being a previous student or not. Admissions is a highly competitive process. If you are a competitive candidate for admission, your chances are the same as anyone else who is competitive.

What would you say are the most important factors the university considers in an applicant?

Every admissions committee is different from department to department in terms of what they would like to see from an applicant. For the most part, they are looking for someone who is academically prepared to contribute to the greater body of research in academia. This requires being focused and interested in a particular area, driven to succeed in this area, able to sustain over a long period of time a level of intellectual rigor. This can be demonstrated by successful scores, highly articulated statements and writing samples, and overwhelming support by peers and teachers regarding their academic and intellectual capacities.

Are there plenty of fellowships available to graduate students and how soon would you recommend applying for them?

University-based Fellowships are at a minimum, with the greatest awards going to the most competitive scholars. There are no guarantees for support and students are often forced to be creative with how their time is supported while in the program.  There are a number of extramural fellowships available for graduate study, both predissertation and dissertation.

Would you mind clarifying the conditions for the Personal Statement?

2500 word limit. Do not be concerned with the font or spacing because the online application will autoformat it. We recommend that you go ahead and produce your statement and then cut and paste into the online application. This might be easier than doing it directly. After you have entered it, revisit it to make minor edits because the autoformat is not a perfect tool.

Do you need the faculty/recommender to send the letters directly to your department or can I get them sealed and send them along with other supplemental materials?
Either way is fine.

When are decisions made?
Usually by the early to middle of February.