In light of the blazing fires across California over the past few months, the University of California system will extend its application deadline to undergraduate students for students impacted by the fires. If applicants are unable to complete the application by the traditional date of Nov. 30, they are able to request an extension online.

In addition to the extension request, students are required to provide comments of the conditions they faced, potentially fostering the later admission deadline. Students can also appeal for additional financial aid if family income has been affected by the harsh conditions.

“We know this is a tremendously difficult time for prospective students and their families who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires,” UC President Janet Napolitano said in the press release. “This is one small way the university can offer support.”

Hurricanes in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico across the past few months were a part in making the final decision for the extension among the boards of admission according to the Daily Bruin, the official news site of the University of California, Los Angeles. In addition, the UC schools are working to manage the applications and determine the potential for extension considering the potential of students taking unfair advantage of the extension.

“While we are aware of the schools and districts that have been directly affected by these disasters, we also trust the honesty of our applicants,” UC spokesperson Ricardo Vasquez said in the Daily Bruin.

With all the damages and long term effects these disasters have caused, the UC system is doing its all to help its applicants in any way it can. In a message sent out by UC Undergraduate Admissions under Student Affairs, the UC expressed “profound sympathy” for its applicants and those who have faced these disasters.

“Our community has pledged assistance to those in need and is committed to supporting
applicants who have been affected by these events,” the letter states.