Welcome and thank you for your interest in our program! We strive to make this web page as comprehensive as possible in addressing questions that you may have regarding the admission process. Nevertheless, please feel free to contact the individuals listed at the end of this page if your question is not addressed herein. We look forward to receiving your application.
Application Requirements for Fall 2010:
1) Graduate Studies Application and statement of purpose
2) Application processing fee: $70.00 Domestic, $90.00 International
3) GRE scores
4) Certified transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (whether or not a degree was granted)
5) Three letters of recommendation
6) TOEFL score (for nationals of non-English-speaking countries)
Application deadline:
All materials due by December 15, 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- General Questions about admission to the MAE graduate program
- Requirements for the Ph.D. Program
- Information for applicant's without a BS in mechanical or aeronautical engineering
- General questions about admissions materials
- Questions about GPA
- Questions about GRE
- Questions about TOEFL
- Questions about letters of recommendation
- Information for international students
- Information on contacting MAE faculty
- Financial Aid Information
- UCD Fees and Tuition
- I'm thinking about applying and I'd like to visit
- I've just been admitted and I have questions
General Questions about admission to the MAE graduate program
Do you admit students to the Certificate, M.Eng or D. Eng programs?
No. We currently only consider aplications to the MS Plan 1 (thesis), MS Plan 2 (coursework only) and Ph.D. programs.
Do you admit students in winter or spring Quarters?
No, we only admit students for the fall Quarter. However, after gaining admission for the fall, it is sometimes possible to request a deferment of enrollment until the winter, spring, or the following fall Quarter, if circumstances prevent you from starting on time. Approval is not automatic; a sound reason must be given.
Can you give me an idea of my chances for admission?
As a matter of policy, we do not provide pre-evaluation of applications to our graduate program. Please read these Admissions FAQs to help you determine if you meet the requirements for admission. Please remember that in a large and competitive applicant pool, many applicants who meet all requirements will not be offered admission.
How many people are usually admitted into the program?
We reviewed more than 300 applications for admission in Fall 2008. Less than half of these applicants were offered admission.
Requirements for the Ph.D. program
Do I need a MS to be eligible to apply to the Ph.D.?
No. Applicants intending to pursue a Ph.D. degree should apply directly to this program, even if an M.S. degree has not yet been obtained (note the GPA requirement below).
What is the GPA requirement for the Ph.D. program?
Applicants to the Ph.D. program are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.50.
Information for applicants without a BS degree in mechanical & aeronautical engineering
I have a BS degree in a different major. Can I still apply?
The MAE admissions committee is primarily looking for individuals who have demonstrated excellent academic achievement in mechanical and aeronautical engineering. However, we know that outstanding applicants with an undergraduate major in a related field (electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, etc.) can also be successful in our program. If admitted, such applicants will typically be asked to take additional undergraduate classes (see below).
Will any additional coursework be required of me?
Admitted applicants with an undergraduate degree in another field than MAE, may be required to take additional undergraduate courses if they cannot demonstrate that they have previously taken essentially similar courses. A list of such courses is posted here. The specific courses that these applicants will have to take will be determined after admission, during their first quarter in the program.
General questions about application materials
How do I submit an online application for fall?
The online application will be available to applicants at the Graduate Studies web site.
How do I pay the application fee?
The fee may be paid by credit card or e-check. The fee must be paid before the application will be considered as complete, and the fee must be paid for each application submitted (if applying for more than one graduate program). The application fee is $70 for the domestic application and $90 for the international application.
How do I submit transcripts?
Please send one copy your transcript(s) directly to the Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering Graduate Program. Please send only one transcript per university attended. That transcript will be made available to faculty in each graduate program to which you have applied, as well as for the review of the Internal campus fellowship application.
Send transcripts to:
Graduate Program
Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering
UC Davis
2132 Bainer Hall
Davis, CA 95616
What should I include in my statement of purpose?
The statement of purpose plays a critical role in the review of an application. It should be well written and free from technical errors. It should define your background, and the interests and experiences that qualify you for graduate study. It must explicitly state your areas of interest for graduate study and detail how the program at UC Davis will help you attain your educational and research goals. The statement should reflect that you understand the on-going research in Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering at UC Davis and explain why you are qualified to contribute to that research.
What are the GPA requirements?
For applicants to our MS program, our GPA criteria are those of the Office of Graduate Studies; "At least a B average or its equivalent is normally required for admission. Satisfaction of minimal standards does not, however, guarantee admission, since the number of qualified applicants far exceeds the number of places available. As a consequence, many well-qualified applicants cannot be accommodated." Applicants to our Ph.D. program are typically required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.50.
What are the typical GPA's of admitted MAE students?
The average undergraduate GPA of admitted applicants to our graduate program varies from year to year but is typically around 3.5.
Are admission decisions made only on the basis of GPA and GRE scores?
No. All (required) material in the application package is considered in the evaluation process. Evidently, academic achievements and qualifications as measured by GPA and GRE scores bear significant weight. Nevertheless, the admissions committee will occasionally recommend admission for an applicant whose GPA and/or GRE scores would not normally warrant admission. This may happen if other aspects of the applicant's background which are not reflected in the GPA and/or GRE scores strongly indicate a potential for success in our graduate program. A typical example is extensive and relevant work experience with excellent performance.
Am I required to take a GRE subject test?
No. Only the general test is required.
Where should I send the GRE scores?
Please submit your GRE scores electronically to UC Davis. Because our system is now all online, this is the best way to assure that your scores and your application are matched up. Please use the following codes: Institution Code 4834 and Department Code 1502.
What are the minimum Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores required for the MAE program?
Performance on the GRE is only one of the metrics used to evaluate an application as a whole. Therefore there is no set minimum score. Evidently, a poor performance on the GRE is a serious drawback.
What are the typical GRE scores of admitted MAE students?
Average GRE scores for admitted applicants vary from year to year but are typically as follows: Verbal ~ 530, Quantitative ~760, and Analytical ~680 or ~4.5.
When should I take the GRE to be considered for fall admission?
Since GRE scores must be included with your application, it will be necessary to take the exam prior to early October for admission for the following fall quarter. If you cannot take the exam in a timely manner, we will be unable to process your application.
How long are my GRE scores acceptable?
GRE scores are reportable for 5 years from the date of examination.
If I don't provide original GRE scores with my application, will I still be evaluated for admission?
The department can make a recommendation to admit based on photocopies of the examinee's score report sent to you by ETS. However official scores must be submitted directly from Educational Testing Service (ETS), for a final admission decision.
Do I need to submit TOEFL scores?
Yes, if the applicant graduated from an institution in which the language of instruction was not English, you are required to submit a TOEFL score.
No, if the applicant received a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree from an accredited school where the language of instruction was English, then a TOEFL score is unnecessary.
Where should I send the TOEFL score?
Please submit your TOEFL score electronically to UC Davis using the following codes: Institution code 4834 and Department code 68.
What are the minimum TOEFL scores required?
The University of California, Davis requires at least 550 paper based, 213 on the computer based and 68 on the Internet based exam.
What are the typical TOEFL scores of admitted MAE students?
Average TOEFL scores for admitted students vary from year to year but are typically around 600 (paper based) and 250 (computer based).
How long are my TOEFL scores acceptable?
TOEFL scores are reportable for 2 years from the date of examination.
If I don't provide original TOEFL scores with my application, will I still be evaluated for admission?
A photocopy of the TOEFL scores are acceptable for initial consideration, however official scores must be submitted directly from Educational Testing Service (ETS), for a final admission decision. The scores must be received before you are notified of admission by the Office of Graduate Studies.
Questions about letters of recommendation
How do I submit letters of recommendation?
Letters of recommendation must be submitted electronically by the referee through the online application. Do not have referees send letters in hard copy, but rather submit all recommendations online through the online application service. The online application will automatically notify the referee and provide instructions on how to submit their letter. Letters not submitted electronically will not be reviewed. We are unable to accept more than three letters and an application with less than three letters will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.
Do all letter writers need to be from academic sources?
Three letters of recommendation, at least two from professors or instructors who are familiar with the applicant's academic potential, are required.
Information for international students
How many international Master's degree students are typically admitted?
In 2006, 43% of admitted students were international students.
I am an international student and have questions, where should I go?
Please visit the website of the Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) office. A major role for SISS is to assist international students and scholars with visa and immigration issues while they are at UC Davis. In addition to preparing the necessary documents to apply for a U.S. visa, SISS assists international students and scholars in maintaining their legal status while in the United States. SISS also provides orientation, assistance, information, and referral to international students, faculty, and researchers regarding financial, personal, cultural, and academic concerns.
Information on contacting MAE Faculty
Can I contact faculty?
Yes. First, please be sure to visit the faculty contact information webpage and research those faculty with whom you wish to contact. In your e-mail, please be specific about your interest in their research or laboratory. Professors receive a large number of inquiries about admissions each year and may not reply if they do not have any available positions.
Do I need to submit a FAFSA?
All applicants who are US citizens, permanent residents or immigrants are strongly urged to submit a completed FAFSA as early as possible. This form is used to assess your eligibility for financial assistance from federal sources. It should be submitted even if you are not applying for any federal grants yourself, as the department sometimes has fellowship aid from federal sources that you might be eligible for. Failure to file the FAFSA by its deadline automatically disqualifies you from receiving any federal aid.
Do you support all of your incoming students?
We strive to provide financial support to our graduate students, but it is not always possible. Financial support can be provided in the form of a GSR by the individual faculty member with whom the student chooses to work, if the research is funded and if the grant/contract permits it. Obtaining financial support in the form of a TA is also possible. Financial support is contingent on academic record, abilities in teaching and/or research, and availability of funds. In general, students will not find out if they receive a department fellowship or TA position until they are admitted.
What type of funding is available to new students?
Financial support for first-year graduate students may take one or more of four forms: Department and Internal Campus Fellowships, Graduate Student Research (GSR) positions, Teaching Assistantships (TA), and Readerships.
What is a department fellowship?
Departmental fellowships are awarded primarily on the basis of scholarship and the promise of outstanding academic and professional achievement. They are competitive, and vary widely with regard to stipend and/or tuition support they offer. About eight departmental fellowships are available and consideration is automatic upon completion and submission of the admission application. No separate application necessary.
How do I apply for an Internal Campus fellowship?
Please submit any fellowship application materials through the Embark online admission system. The deadline for submission is December 15. Please reference this Office of Graduate Studies webpage for information and instructions.
What is a Graduate Student Research (GSR) position and how do I get one?
GSR's are based on research grant funding, and are arranged with individual faculty members. Applicants interested in a GSR position should make early contact with individual faculty members in their areas of interest (see faculty contact information webpage) to discuss possible research funding opportunities. Research Assistantships of at least 25% appointment provide full remission of fees and Non-Resident tuition. A monthly salary is also earned.
How do I apply for a Teaching Assistantship (TA)?
TA positions are assigned for the upcoming academic year from a competitive pool of applications consisting of both current and new students. Once you have been admitted to the program, the department will send you a TA application. Typical responsibilities of a TA include running discussion or lab sections, supervising laboratory experiments, grading of lab reports, etc. TA positions in the MAE are typically 25% appointments which include partial remission of in-state fees and a monthly salary.
How do I apply for a Readership?
Reader applications are available one month before the quarter begins. Faculty will make their selection based on qualifications such as the student's familiarity of the coursework, grade received in the class, and relevant experience. Typically, readers are involved in homework and exam grading. Readerships are paid on an hourly basis, but include partial fee remission if the position is at least a 25% appointment, to be determined based on student enrollment.
What are the estimated yearly expenses for a graduate student?
Here are two websites that may offer information about the cost of attending UC Davis:
http://gradstudies.ucdavis.edu/prospective/admissions.html#8
http://www.ormp.ucdavis.edu/studentfees/
Is there funding available for non-resident tuition (NRT)?
Students at the University of California, Davis who are not California residents, are required to pay NRT. For international and non-California students, NRT often poses the greatest financial difficulty. For international students there is a reduction in NRT following advancement to candidacy for the PhD degree (after completing the qualifying exam). US citizens and permanent residents often become California residents after one year of study.
How do I establish California residency?
Domestic students (US citizens and permanent residents) may be eligible for California residency after one year if certain requirements are met. After residency is established, a student is no longer required to pay non-resident tuition. All students, regardless of residency status, pay educational fees. All questions regarding California residency must be directed to the Residency Deputy in the Office of the Registrar. For information, visit: http://registrar.ucdavis.edu/UCDWebCatalog/appendix/residency.html
Certain non-resident students may qualify for in-state fees and a waiver of non-resident tuition if they attended at least three years and graduated from a California high school. International students on F-1 or J-1 visas cannot establish California residency and therefore are assessed non-resident tuition the entire time they are a graduate student. Some students on other visas may qualify for California residency after 12 months, but full time student status may violate visa provisions. All visa questions should be referred to Services for International Students and Scholars ( siss@ucdavis.edu ).
I'm thinking of applying and I'd like to visit.
I'd like to visit the department before I apply, how can I make arrangements?
We strongly believe one of our best recruiting tools is a visit to our campus, so we welcome visitors! We encourage all prospective applicants to visit UC Davis any time of the year. We try to arrange appointments with representative faculty and a tour of our research facilities for each interested candidate. In addition, we attempt to arrange some time for applicants to meet with current graduate students. The department does not perform an interview as part of the admission process, and visiting the department will not influence the admission decision. Please contact the Graduate Program Coordinator to make arrangements.
I've just been admitted and I have questions.
I'd like to visit campus before I decide if I want to attend UCD. How do I arrange a visit?
We encourage all prospective students to visit UC Davis any time of the year. We try to arrange appointments with representative faculty and a tour of our research facilities for each visitor. In addition, we attempt to arrange some time for applicants to meet with current graduate students. Please contact the Graduate Program Coordinator to make arrangements.
How do I register for classes?
In late June, the Office of the Registrar mails registration materials to each domestic student who has indicated their intent to register. International students receive registration materials when they arrive on campus.
When should I plan to arrive in Davis?
Most leases in Davis begin the first of September, but the academic quarter does not begin until the end of September. It is strongly recommended that you arrive in Davis well before Orientation, which occurs the Tuesday before classes start. You will need time to settle in to your new home, find a bicycle, figure out where things are, etc. before classes begin.
Still have questions?
Program questions:
Professor Rida Farouki
Faculty Advisor for Graduate Admissions
(530) 752-1779
Admissions questions:
Graduate Program Coordinator
(530) 752-0581
last updated: July 1, 2009