UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA · UNITED STATES
Graduate Fellowship Program
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
5 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Up to 8 students hosted per termNumber of Fellows
- Minimum 5 months durationFellowship Length
- $1200/month reimbursement for local expensesMonthly Stipend
- Campus housing providedAccommodation
- Assistance with round-trip travelTravel Support
- Commitment to diversityProgram Value
The KITP Graduate Fellowship Program offers advanced physics doctoral students from around the world a unique opportunity to spend at least five months at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP). The program aims to broaden students' understanding of theoretical physics by allowing them to participate in research programs and engage with current research frontiers. This fellowship is designed for students nearing the completion of their doctoral work, providing valuable experience to prepare them for their future careers and counteracting the trend of over-specialization in graduate physics education. By immersing themselves in the KITP's dynamic research environment, students can expand their knowledge across various physics fields and connect with leading researchers.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the KITP Graduate Fellowship Program?
- The KITP Graduate Fellowship Program offers advanced physics doctoral students from around the world the opportunity to spend at least five months at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP) to broaden their understanding of theoretical physics and engage with current research frontiers.
- What financial support does the fellowship provide?
- The fellowship provides reimbursement for local expenses (meals and incidentals) up to $1200 per month, campus housing, and assistance with round-trip travel. Fellows remain paid employees of their home institutions.
- What are the eligibility requirements for the fellowship?
- Applicants must be advanced physics doctoral students with a proven ability to contribute meaningfully to KITP research programs, demonstrated through publications and other submitted information. English proficiency is required if applicable.
- What documents are needed for the application?
- You will need to submit your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a 500-word essay, and a letter of recommendation or nomination letter from your advisor.
- What are the application deadlines for the fellowship?
- The application deadline is September 15 (of the preceding year) for the Winter/Spring term, and February 15 (of the same year) for the Summer/Fall term.
- How long is the fellowship, and how many fellows are accepted?
- The fellowship has a minimum duration of 5 months, and up to 8 students are hosted per term.
Entry requirements
Advanced physics doctoral studentProven ability to contribute meaningfully to KITP research programs, demonstrated through publications and other submitted information.
IELTS6.5 or higher
TOEFL (iBT)80 or better (taken before Jan 2026) / 4.5 (iBT Home Edition taken Jan 2026 or later)
Duolingo English Test (DET)115 or higher
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency if their native language is not English and their prior education was not in English, or if they have less than three years of instruction in English. Scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to UCSB. TOEFL, IELTS, and DET scores are valid for two years from the exam date.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not applicable (Fellowship covers local expenses and housing; home institution remains the employer).
Tuition (home)Not applicable (Fellowship covers local expenses and housing; home institution remains the employer).
LivingReimbursement for local expenses (meals and incidentals) up to a maximum of $1200 per month.
The fellowship provides financial support for local expenses and assists with travel. Fellows remain paid employees of their home institutions.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and write a 500-word essay addressing: "How will working at KITP during the 5 months of this Graduate Fellow appointment advance my development as a physicist?"
2. Obtain Advisor SupportYour PhD advisor must provide a letter of recommendation. If nominated, the nomination letter serves this purpose. The advisor should describe your suitability for the program and potential contributions to KITP, noting any relevant research synergies. They must also acknowledge that you will remain a paid employee of your home institution.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the dedicated online portal for direct applications, or ensure your advisor submits a nomination via their respective portal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the KITP Graduate Fellowship Program?
+
The KITP Graduate Fellowship Program offers advanced physics doctoral students from around the world the opportunity to spend at least five months at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP) to broaden their understanding of theoretical physics and engage with current research frontiers.
What financial support does the fellowship provide?
+
The fellowship provides reimbursement for local expenses (meals and incidentals) up to $1200 per month, campus housing, and assistance with round-trip travel. Fellows remain paid employees of their home institutions.
What are the eligibility requirements for the fellowship?
+
Applicants must be advanced physics doctoral students with a proven ability to contribute meaningfully to KITP research programs, demonstrated through publications and other submitted information. English proficiency is required if applicable.
What documents are needed for the application?
+
You will need to submit your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a 500-word essay, and a letter of recommendation or nomination letter from your advisor.
What are the application deadlines for the fellowship?
+
The application deadline is September 15 (of the preceding year) for the Winter/Spring term, and February 15 (of the same year) for the Summer/Fall term.
How long is the fellowship, and how many fellows are accepted?
+
The fellowship has a minimum duration of 5 months, and up to 8 students are hosted per term.