UCSD:SDSU Joint Doctoral Program – Department FAQ
Effective Fall 2026 Admissions Cycle
Why is the JDP admissions process changing?
To improve efficiency, reduce applicant confusion, and align practices between UCSD and SDSU. These updates help ensure timely review, equitable access to fellowship and campus housing opportunities, and clearer expectations for all involved.
What stays the same at the faculty/program level?
There is no change to how faculty review or evaluate JDP applicants at the program level. Faculty should continue reviewing applications according to program specific review procedures.
Do applicants apply to both SDSU and UCSD?
Yes. All applicants applying to a JDP program must apply to both campuses. Program application deadlines at SDSU and UCSD will be the same, and it will be the responsibility of the applicant to meet these deadlines. Please ensure your program’s deadlines are clearly communicated on your respective websites.
UCSD Application Details to keep in mind for JDPs:
Fee waiver: UCSD will continue waiving the application fee..
Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts are required; official transcripts will be required only upon admission.
LOR and SOP Requirements: UCSD will continue to require a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
English language proficiency: Required for applicants who must demonstrate English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/DET).
International credential evaluations: Waived for admitted JDP applicants at this time who have earned degree(s) outside of the US.
How will UCSD review and admit JDP applicants?
JDP Graduate Coordinators will continue to move their JDP applicants forward in Slate to the “Department Nomination” bin. They will not have to wait to receive the JDP packet from SDSU to do so.
JDP applicants will be admitted under a provisional status, same as all admitted UCSD graduate applicants to non-JDP programs
GEPA will review materials like transcripts, English language proficiency scores, and the JDP1 form to ensure nominated JDP applicants are admissible.
Admitted applicants will be directed to finalize their admission once they have accepted their offer of admission. Official documentation is received and reviewed by GEPA Admissions.
What materials will no longer be uploaded?
SDSU will no longer upload a JDP Materials Packet to Slate.
UCSD GEPA Admissions staff will continue uploading the JDP1 form.
What about Letters of Recommendation and SOPs?
Applicants should submit identical materials to both SDSU and UCSD, including the Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LOR).