Sally Casanova Pre-Doctoral Program

About the Program

The California Pre-Doctoral Program is designed to increase diversity within the pool of university faculty by supporting the doctoral aspirations of students in the CSU.

What the California Pre-Doctoral Program Offers

In 2023-24, the California Pre-Doctoral Program awarded funds to 77 juniors, seniors and graduate students in the CSU. These funds are designed to enable current students to explore and prepare to succeed in doctoral programs in their chosen field of study. Awards are based on a competitive review of student applications and given to current upper-division or graduate students who, in the judgment of the review panel, demonstrate academic excellence while experiencing economic or educational disadvantage, and are committed to a career in teaching and research at the college or university level. All matriculated students enrolled on a CSU campus are eligible to participate.

Students chosen for the Pre-Doctoral Program are designated Sally Casanova Scholars as a tribute to Dr. Sally Casanova, for whom the scholarship is named.

Sally Casanova Scholars have unique opportunities to explore and prepare to succeed in doctoral programs. Scholars receive one-on-one guidance provided by faculty members within the CSU system and the opportunity to work with faculty from doctoral-granting institutions.

How To Apply

Currently enrolled CSU undergraduate and graduate students, who will be enrolled in coursework at one of the CSU campuses, are eligible to apply. Applications for the Sally Casanova Scholarship are submitted electronically.

The 2024-25 scholarship application cycle is now open!
The submission deadline is Friday, February 16, 2024.

The award year begins July 1 and ends June 30 of the following year. This period does not include the optional Summer Research Experience that takes place during the summer following the award.

Important information:

You are welcome to connect with the California Pre-Doctoral Coordinator on your campus. This is not required but strongly recommended.
This is a one-time award. Current and former Sally Casanova Scholars are not eligible to reapply.
The application cycle opens in December and closes in mid-February each year.
Assemble the application components and coordinate with your Campus Coordinator to have them review your draft application. You should have your budget, three essays, transcripts prior to your meeting.
All attachments, including all transcripts and essay responses, must be saved as PDF documents.
If you have any questions, please check with your Campus Coordinator.
Consider these application guidelines when preparing for your application.

Pre-Doc & CDIP Application Quick Guide

Application

The 2024-25 application for the California Pre-Doctoral Program will be submitted through Smartsheet. Be sure to monitor your spam folder for emails and alerts from Smartsheet.
Application requirements: