Visiting Graduate Researcher Policy: Supplemental Fee Suspended

UCLA Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost

To:  Deans, Directors, Department Chairs and Senate Faculty

Dear Colleagues:

In June of this year, the Graduate Division announced a new policy for Visiting Graduate Researchers (VGR) that became effective in July 2012. The policy covers graduate researchers who are visiting the campus for periods ranging from three weeks to two years. Its intent is to balance the interests and needs of visitors, faculty, graduate students, and campus services.

Following its announcement, faculty and administrators expressed concerns about the VGR policy, particularly the fees. In response, I invited the Academic Senate and Graduate Division to consider how these concerns might be addressed while ensuring that the underlying objectives of the policy continue to be met.

We have agreed that the best course of action is to suspend introduction of the $535 quarterly supplemental fee for one year, effective immediately (Fall 2012). Visitors or their hosts will still be responsible for all other fees, which are posted here. In the spring quarter 2013, we will reassess the potential value of the supplementary fees and will make a determination for 2013-14. An announcement will be made no later than June 1, 2013.

Questions about Visiting Graduate Researchers can be directed to visitingscholars@grad.ucla.edu.

Sincerely,

Scott L. Waugh
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost