<p>I second flyer29’s statement that what may be affected is the number of students enrolled, not funding. </p>
<p>I can’t speak for the current application round, but I applied to Master’s and PhD programs last fall (when there was worry about economy, etc etc too). I applied to UCLA, USC, and UC-Riverside. I got into all three. One of them was a Master’s and I received a TA-ship, the other two were PhD and I received full funding that is guaranteed (so regardless of budget cuts, etc I am still supported). </p>
<p>If you are seriously leaning towards some CA schools, don’t just cross them from your list due to what others are saying about the system. Call the graduate director of the program and discuss your worry. Ask them, what you are asking us–it will vary depending on the programs.</p>
<p>Edit: Or email.</p>