All graduate applicants who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents or immigrants are required to file a "Free Application for Federal Student Aid" (FAFSA). Although the FAFSA can be filed at any time, it is strongly suggested that you file by the priority processing date of March 1. This form, submitted directly to the Federal Student Aid Program Office, Iowa City, Iowa, is used to determine financial need only. Financial need is a component of the eligibility criteria for many fellowships, and for all forms of federal financial aid. The FAFSA may be obtained from any US institution of higher education http://www.FAFSA.ed.gov

Teaching Assistantships (TA) - These are awarded yearly in the spring for the following academic year. Students may be awarded Teaching Assistantships later during the year as the needs of the teaching program change. Teaching Assistants work a maximum of half time (20 hours a week). An application form should reach the department no later than January 15th for consideration for the academic year beginning in the next Fall Quarter.

Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) - Throughout the year, professors working on research projects may have research grant money to hire students to work with them. Professors tend to employ graduate students who are specializing in their own areas of research, or who are interested in learning more about the area the research project encompasses, and who have the skills needed by the professor to complete the work on their specific project. Students should become familiar with the types of research projects which are currently being funded in the department and should apply directly to the professor. Graduate Student Researchers have varying durations of employment, and work a maximum of half time (20 hours per week). GSRs must remain in good academic standing.

Fellowships and Scholarships - Graduate Studies has a limited number of fellowships and scholarships available including the UCD and Humanities Graduate Research Award. Students must file applications by January 15 for the following academic year. Awards are based on outstanding academic achievement and high promise. Detailed information concerning requirements, criteria and application procedures are included in the Application for Prospective Students (Graduate Admission and Fellowship).

Non-University Financial Support - Support from outside the University (e.g., the National Science Foundation) is also available to students. Graduate Studies has information regarding these sources of aid.

Grants, Loans, Work Study - The Financial Aid Office, Dutton Hall, UC Davis, CA 95616, has information and application materials regarding grants, loans, and work study. Students should apply by March 1st for financial aid. The application is for the entire academic year.

Support for Thesis or Dissertation Research - Students in the Geology Department are encouraged to apply to extramural sources for funding to support their research. Our students commonly have been awarded grants from the Geological Society of America, Sigma Xi, and American Association of Petroleum Geologists, among others.

Cordell Durrell Geology Field Fund - This fund is administered by the Geology Department, and was set up to support field-oriented research.

last updated 11/22/2006