FAQs

In trying to identify future leaders on an inclusive and effective conservation movement, there is no singular definition of what we are looking for. We purposefully select Scholars from a broad range of backgrounds under the eligibility criteria to bring together a cohort of diverse perspectives and strengths.

While not a criteria for selection, members of underrepresented socio-cultural or geographic groups including: first-generation college students, veterans, African American, Native American/Alaska Native, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, or economically disadvantaged individuals are all strongly encouraged to apply.

We evaluate all applications holistically, but a few things we look for are: demonstrated leadership potential, one or more areas of academic strength, how you will contribute to diversifying the conservation field, and a passion and commitment to conservation.

Not at all! All you need is a positive attitude and a growth mindset.

CLIME is an immersive experience, and we expect, in the absence of an emergency, Scholars to be immersed in the program all ten weeks during the sumer.

All Scholars receive $10,800 over the ten-week summer in three payments. Scholars should expect to spend a portion of those funds on living expenses (housing, groceries, and transportation) during their 8-week internship.

No, we will supply nearly all of the equipment you will use except for the most basic personal items. You will receive a detailed packing list upon acceptance.

CLIME covers the cost of all meals, lodging, and travel for the first two weeks of the course. You may want to budget some money for souvenirs or incidentals during the immersive course.

We work with you and hosts to help you secure housing before the internship, but ultimately securing and paying for housing is the responsibility of each CLIME Scholar. The first CLIME stipend payment will be sent before the summer begins so Scholars can place a security deposit if required.

We work with you and hosts to help you secure housing before the internship, but ultimately securing and paying for housing is the responsibility of each CLIME Scholar. The first CLIME stipend payment will be sent before the summer begins so Scholars can place a security deposit if required.

Yes, nearly all manners of folks within the US are eligible, this includes those who are undocumented, DADA, asylees, refugees, and more. Proof of citizenship or residency is not required. The University of California firmly supports justice and opportunities for undocumented students that all Americans enjoy.

Unfortunately, international students studying in the US on a student visa are not eligible.

We generally accept rising seniors, but if you have special circumstances, and will not be finishing a four-year degree in the academic year following your summer immersion, you may be eligible.

Unfortunately, this program is not open to graduate students.

Yes! We highly encourage you to apply. Furthermore, students at two-year and four-year Tribal Colleges are eligible regardless of plans to transfer, as long as you expect to be a student in the academic year following your summer immersion.

There is no GPA requirement! Rather we look for strength in one or more academic areas, all of which are relevant to conservation science.

When you submit your application (including your recommender’s information such as name and email), we will send out an email with instructions for submitting their letters electronically. No email is sent to them until AFTER you submit your application. Please reach out to your recommenders ahead of time to prepare them.

It is up to you to check in with your recommender, and if they turn in their recommendation letter late, it will affect your eligibility. Late submissions may not be reviewed.

The email will only be sent out to them once you submit your application. The deadline for them to submit their recommendation letter is two weeks after the application due date.