How do I apply for a DYFA or DCFA? 

Students cannot apply directly for a DYFA or DCFA fellowship. Instead, candidates must be nominated by their graduate program. Each program is allowed to submit a limited number or applications per year. To be considered, you must first be selected by your program as one of its official nominees.
 

If I have had a DYFA fellowship previously, can I also receive a DCFA? 

Yes.
 

Do my letters of recommendations need to be from UCR faculty? 

Yes, at least one letter must come from a UCR faculty member.

• Best option: Two letters from UCR faculty.
• Second best: One letter from UCR faculty and one from faculty at another institution.
• Less preferred: A letter from someone who is not a faculty member. 

For the strongest application, aim to include letters from faculty who are familiar with your academic work and potential.

If awarded a fellowship, can I choose the quarter(s) to use it? 

Yes, you may select the quarter(s) in which to use the fellowship, based on the guidelines provided in your award letter.
 

What makes a strong DYFA or DCFA application?

Reviewers consider several factors, with strong emphasis on:

• How clearly you explain your research to a non-specialist audience.
• Whether your professional development aligns with expectations for your field and stage in graduate school.
• Your GPA and number of years in your program.
• The strength of your letter of recommendations.
• Your gradate advisor's evaluation. 

A competitive application demonstrates clarity, focus, and strong academic and professional progress.

What is UCOP's diversity criteria for the DYFA and DCFA?? 

To be considered under UCOP’s diversity criteria for a DYFA or DCFA fellowship, applicants should demonstrate one or more of the following:

• Challenging educational or life circumstances
  Examples include:

  • Being the first in your family to attend college.

  • Attending under-resourced schools.

  • Managing a physical or learning disability.

  • Working significant hours while in school.

• Academic research interests that focus on cultural, societal, or educational challenges affecting educationally disadvantaged communities.

• A clear commitment to using your doctoral training to serve underrepresented or educationally underserved populations.

Note: Under Proposition 209, UCR may not give preferential treatment or discriminate based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.