IRiSS Predoctoral Researchers Program FAQ
The application for the 2025–26 cohort is now open. Apply before March 17.
I did not major in a social science discipline. May I still apply?
Yes, we consider non-social science majors for these positions, unless otherwise stated in the faculty research project eligibility requirements. However, applicants should have strong interest in the social sciences, and an enthusiasm for learning quantitative and/or qualitative research methods.
Do you accept international applications?
Visa sponsorship is not available for this program. All candidates must have authorization to work in the United States by July 9, 2025, or an offer may be rescinded.
May I use my practical training for this position?
Students currently resident in the U.S. under an F-1 visa with adequate OPT available as of July 9, 2025 may apply. J-1 existing visa work authorization also applies. All candidates must have authorization to work in the United States by July 9, 2025, or an offer may be rescinded.
I am currently enrolled in a doctoral program. May I apply?
This program is not intended for students currently enrolled in PhD (or other doctoral) programs.
How do I apply?
The job description for the 2025–26 program year is now available on the Stanford University Careers site.
Submit your basic employment information and résumé via the application on the Stanford Careers site. There is no need to upload transcripts, cover letters, or other documents at this stage. Please fill out the application form and upload your résumé ONLY.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and must be submitted by March 17, 2025.
The following items will be requested separately via email for second-round applicants:
- Cover Letter
- CV / Résumé
- College transcripts
- Names and contact information for two recommenders
- Optional background information
- Optional writing sample
Please ensure your email address is entered correctly in the application form, so that you receive further information.
Please do not email to ask whether submitting additional documents early will help your application. It will not, and they will not be reviewed.
What should I include in my résumé/CV?
Include all relevant education, research experience, work experience, volunteer experience and skills.
How do I submit my transcripts and cover letter?
Instructions will be sent via email. Please ensure your email address is entered correctly on the job application.
How do I apply for a particular faculty project?
Instructions will be sent via email. Please ensure your email address is entered correctly on the job application.
Do we need to provide test scores for the program (GRE/GMAT/TOEFL)?
No, we do not require test scores.
Do you accept application material by email?
No, we are unable to review applications received by email. When the position is open, fill out your application via the Stanford Job application portal. You will receive further information regarding document submission. Please make sure your email address is entered correction in the job application portal.
My advisor would like to submit a recommendation letter. How do I do that?
We do not accept unsolicited recommendation letters on behalf of candidates. They will not be read.
Is it an advantage to have a master's degree when applying for the program?
You are not required to have a master's degree for admission to the predoc program. A master's degree may be helpful if you believe your undergraduate coursework does not adequately reflect your abilities in the social sciences, but is not guaranteed to give you an edge above other applicants.
How many students apply to your program?
We are not releasing our application numbers at this time.
May I work remotely?
No, this is an on-site position.
What are the opportunities for taking classes?
Stanford staff may audit classes with instructor permission. We encourage predocs to audit no more than one class per quarter. IRiSS Predoctoral Researchers have a special opportunity to enroll in a single Stanford class per academic year, for which you may receive a grade and a transcript.
Questions?
For further questions, please email irisspredoc [at] stanford.edu (irisspredoc[at]stanford[dot]edu).