Support our students: GRAD EDGE nomination reminder
The Graduate Division is pleased to announce that the faculty nomination period for the UCSB GRAD EDGE pilot program is now open.
GRAD EDGE is an eight-week summer bridge program designed to support incoming doctoral students from CSU campuses as they transition into UCSB graduate study. The program will run July 12 through September 4, 2026, and includes structured academic preparation, faculty mentoring and community-building.
Eligible Students
Departments may nominate doctoral applicants recommended for Fall 2026 admission from California State University (CSU) campuses, particularly from CSU institutions with HSI/BSI designations (BA/BS & MA/MS).
Fellow Support and Funding
Each UCSB GRAD EDGE Fellow will receive:
- Summer housing in San Clemente Villages (4 Bedroom)
- *The fellow will be billed by housing for the difference if they select a two-bedroom option.
- A $1,000 stipend covering summer meals
- A $5,000 GRAD EDGE Fellow stipend
This financial support ensures fellows can fully engage in the summer residency experience.
Faculty Nomination Process
This Nominations Form must be submitted by a faculty member for each student being recommended. Faculty mentors must be available to meet regularly with and support their mentees throughout the full eight-week program.
Departments are strongly encouraged, but not required, to obtain a brief statement of interest from prospective graduate students prior to submitting a nomination. This statement may help inform the faculty nomination but is optional and will not be required for consideration.
Timeline
- Nomination period opens: January 21, 2026
- Nominations accepted on a rolling basis: Preferred Deadline: February 28th/ Final Deadline: March 15th
- Nomination review and evaluation: Early March 2026
- GRAD EDGE offers sent: Early–mid April 2026
- Student Decision Date: Late April 2026
- Final GRAD EDGE cohort confirmed: Mid–late May 2026, following the SIR deadline
Submission Instructions
Complete this nomination form. Nominations will be reviewed starting March 1. Departments may nominate more than one eligible student.
If you have questions about eligibility, faculty mentor expectations, or the nomination process, please contact Sebastian Lopez-Padilla in the Graduate Division at graddiv-gradedge@ucsb.edu.
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting the success of incoming doctoral students