Find answers to common questions about the MARC program, eligibility, funding, and more.
Eligibility and Application
The MARC program is open to UCI undergraduates who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, enrolled in a biomedical or behavioral science major, and entering their 3rd or 4th year at the time of appointment. Applicants must have a strong interest in pursuing a Ph.D. in the biomedical sciences. Students from backgrounds underrepresented in the sciences are especially encouraged to apply.
The application cycle typically opens in Spring quarter. The application deadline for the upcoming cohort selection is May 15, 2026. We encourage interested students to begin preparing materials early and to connect with the program office for guidance.
Prior research experience is helpful but not required. What matters most is a genuine commitment to pursuing a research career and a strong motivation to grow as a scientist. The application process considers your academic record, personal statement, and future career goals as a whole.
Yes. Transfer students who meet the eligibility criteria are welcome and encouraged to apply. Many of our scholars are transfer students who bring valuable perspectives and experiences to the program.
Program Structure and Training
The MARC program provides comprehensive support to prepare students for success in PhD programs and research careers in the biomedical sciences. Scholars participate in year-round faculty-mentored research, receive financial support (including stipend and tuition assistance), and engage in professional development activities such as workshops, seminars, and scientific conferences.
The program also includes academic advising, graduate school preparation, and opportunities to build skills in scientific communication, networking, and research ethics. Overall, MARC is designed to strengthen students’ readiness for competitive doctoral programs and long-term careers in research.
Scholars are typically appointed for up to two years, usually during their junior and senior years. This means the program is designed to support students in the final two years of their undergraduate experience, beginning in the summer before junior year. Continued participation depends on maintaining good academic standing, active research engagement, and a continued commitment to pursuing a Ph.D. in the biomedical sciences.
The MARC seminar series features speakers from across disciplines, covering both cutting edge science and professional development. Scholars enroll each quarter during the academic year and are also expected to attend over the summer. Students do not enroll in the summer to avoid tuition charges, but attendance is still required. Seminars are held Thursdays from 4:00 to 4:50 pm.
Yes. Scholars work with a UCI faculty research mentor of their choosing within the biomedical sciences. If you don’t have a research position yet, upon acceptance into the program we will work with you to identify one.
Financial Support
MARC scholars receive a portion of their tuition & fees covered and a competitive stipend funded by the NIH, which supports scholars as they dedicate time to research and training. The program also provides funding for conference travel and research-related expenses.
For full details on stipend amounts, financial aid interactions, and concurrent award policies, visit the Financial Support page.
NIH policy limits the total compensation a trainee may receive from federal sources. You should discuss any concurrent awards, scholarships, or employment with the program director before accepting them, so that your support package remains in compliance with NIH guidelines.
Program Expectations
Yes. MARC scholars are required to apply to PhD programs during the fall quarter of their senior (final) year. This is a core expectation of the program, as MARC is designed to prepare students for doctoral-level training and research careers.
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 to remain in good standing in the MARC program. Maintaining strong academic performance is essential for both program eligibility and competitive PhD applications.
If a student does not meet program requirements (such as GPA or participation expectations), their eligibility for continued participation in MARC may be reviewed. This may include academic support, probationary status, or, in some cases, removal from the program. Each situation is evaluated individually, and students are encouraged to communicate early with program staff if they are experiencing challenges.
MARC Scholars are expected to commit to full-time research (40 hours per week) for a continuous 10-week period during the summer, either at UCI or at another approved institution (if applicable).
For students conducting research at UCI, the tentative program dates for Summer 2026 are June 22, 2026 to August 28, 2026. Students participating in a summer REU or research at another approved institution will follow that institution’s schedule, as those dates may vary.
If you have additional questions about the MARC program, please contact the MARC Assistant Director, Reham Riad, at riadr@uci.edu.