The petition process is intentionally undefined to allow students the greatest flexibility in their coursework and PhD requirements. However, below we have listed the most common petitions.
Transfer Coursework: coursework from a Master’s degree- 12 semester units maximum
It may be possible to transfer units from your undergrad degree if it was not used towards your degree. We will need an email from an undergrad advisor stating this, in addition to the petition.
Special Topics courses (294 and 290): to be used for Breadth Requirements Prelim Exam: taking it outside of the normal timeframe or requesting a third attempt GSI Waiver: If you previously TA’d, it may be possible to waive some of your GSI requirements. You will still be required to do at least 10 hours at Berkeley.
To begin the petition process, locate the appropriate form in the Forms section of the website. Except for the case of transferring coursework, you will use the General Petition.
Please be specific in what you are requesting and provide as much justification and/or back-up information (e.g., syllabus, TA duties, emails, etc) as possible. This will ensure less back and forth during the process.
Be sure to sign yourself and have your advisor sign as well before forwarding to your Staff Advisor.
The Staff Advisor will process the form and manage the signature process with the Vice Chairs.
Once an answer has been received from the Vice Chairs, your Staff Advisor will email you the decision and record in your ACG file.