The Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) Grant enables students from all majors across the university to pursue their own self-initiated research or creative projects.

This grant provides up to $750 to help undergraduate students fund their original projects. Whether your passion lies in a scientific experiment, a historical investigation, developing an innovative app, creating a piece of art, or any other ambitious undertaking, the URCA Grant is designed to support you. We believe the best research often comes from student curiosity.

By applying for the URCA Grant you become a part of the research community at UCSB and will develop important skills like taking a research project from conception to completion, learning how a typical grant application process works and getting hands-on experience with research.

The URCA Grant operates on an annual cycle. We are committed to making the application process accessible and encouraging, especially for first-time applicants. We offer application support, including workshops and dedicated office hours, to help you refine your project proposal and submit a strong application.

To qualify for an URCA grant, you must meet a few general requirements and submit a completed proposal online by the application deadline. If you receive an URCA grant, you must present your work at URCA Week the following May.

Applications for the Academic Year 2026-2027 will be open October 1, 2026 and close November 6, 2026.

The application guide will be made available in Canvas at the beginning of Fall quarter.

 

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a UCSB undergraduate in good academic standing and remain so throughout the funding period
  • Students may only submit one application per academic year. Being listed as a member of a group counts as a submission.
  • Groups of up to five undergraduates can submit a shared group application.
  • Must be endorsed my a faculty mentor who is member of the Academic Senate.

Application Requirements

Detailed instructions, expectations, and review criteria will be published in our Canvas page in Fall quarter

  • Online form and abstract
  • 750-1000 word project plan (Groups: additional 250 word addendum per member)
  • Budget on official form
  • Timeline
  • Mentor endorsement form