Frequently Asked Questions


Can I visit UCSD and talk to the graduate advisor or a particular professor?

You are always welcome to visit us. Please contact the graduate advisor to make arrangements. [Top]

Is it okay to fill out the online application, print it, and mail it without submitting it electronically?

No. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Office of Graduate Admissions portal to be considered. [Top]

May I study part-time?

The MFA program does not have a part-time option. Students must carry a full-time load (12 units minimum) each quarter. [Top]

Do you keep a waitlist?

Yes. [Top]

May I defer admission?

If you decide to defer, your application will have to be reconsidered the following year along with all the new applications we receive. You are not guaranteed admission. [Top]

Can you send me a catalog?

You may purchase a catalog from the UCSD Bookstore. You may also view it online at http://ucsd.edu/catalog. [Top]

If I decide to apply for the PhD in Literature, will my MFA courses count?

Sorry, no. [Top]

What type of financial support does UC San Diego offer?

We do our best to offer all our students financial support through a combination of Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships. TAships and RAships provide academic credit as well as salaries or stipends. TAships also provide fee remissions.

New graduate students are encouraged to apply for the San Diego Fellowship if eligible. Please visit the Financial Support section of the Office of Graduate Studies site for details.

What does it cost to attend UC San Diego?

Please refer to the Registration Fees page on the Office of Graduate Studies website, and contact the graduate coordinator if you have questions.  [Top]

How much can I expect to earn as a TA?

In 2008/2009 a TA employed at 25% time received a salary of $2773 per quarter in addition to student fee remissions. We anticipated that most MFA students will apply for and receive TA positions at 50% time with one of the six college writing program (scroll down to see descriptions). [Top]

What if I can't get all the information sent in by the deadline?

Make sure your online application is submitted by the deadline. We cannot accept late applications. If the professor who is writing you a recommendation is late, we can wait a couple of weeks at most for him/her to send it to us. However, we cannot consider an application that has no supporting documents. [Top]

How and when do I pay the application fee?

Payment of the application fee is the last step. You must pay by using a major credit card: MasterCard, VISA, American Express, Discover, or JCB Card. [Top]