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University of California Davis: Courses, Fees, And Scholarships 2026!
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Table of Content
- About the University of California Davis
- University of California Davis Rankings
- University of California Davis Courses
- Undergraduate Degrees
- Postgraduate Degrees
- PhD Degrees
- University of California Davis Tuition Fees
- University of California Davis Scholarships
- University of California Davis Admissions Process
- University of California Davis Eligibility Criteria
- Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degrees
- Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degrees
- University of California Davis Student Life
- University of California Davis Placements
- Student Apartments near the University of California Davis
Rooted in academic excellence and driven by research-led innovation, the University of California Davis (UC Davis) is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the United States. Established in 1905 as the University Farm of UC Berkeley, the university has grown into a globally respected institution known for sustainability, scientific discovery, and interdisciplinary education. From cutting-edge laboratories to a lively campus culture, the university offers students an environment where learning extends well beyond the classroom. Whether you are exploring rankings, academic programs, or campus life, this guide covers everything you need to know about the University of California Davis.
About the University of California Davis
The University of California Davis is a public land-grant research university located on a 5,300-acre campus in Davis, California, one of the largest university campuses in the United States. The university serves a diverse student population of over 39,000 students, including approximately 31,000 undergraduates and 8,000 graduate and professional students. International students form a strong global community, representing more than 120 countries. The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, supporting collaborative learning and faculty engagement in California.
The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors and more than 90 graduate and professional programs. These span Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Management, and Liberal Arts. The university’s alumni include Hasan Minhaj (comedian) and Ann Veneman (former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture), reflecting the university’s influence across public service, media, and global research.
University of California Davis Rankings
The university consistently earns global recognition for academic excellence, research output, and sustainability leadership. In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, UC Davis is ranked among the Top 30 Public Universities in the United States and within the Top 50 National Universities. The university is particularly renowned for Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Environmental Science, and Biological Research, making it one of California’s most respected public institutions.
University of California Davis Courses
University of California Davis offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs designed to prepare students for professional success and advanced research careers. Undergraduate students can choose from disciplines such as Biological Sciences, Computer Science, Economics, Environmental Policy, and Mechanical Engineering. At the graduate level, UC Davis provides strong master’s and doctoral programs emphasizing research, innovation, and global impact. Below is an overview of the courses offered at the university.
Undergraduate Degrees
The university provides a diverse selection of undergraduate programs across the Sciences, Engineering, Agriculture, Humanities, and Social Sciences. With a strong emphasis on research opportunities, internships, and experiential learning, students gain practical skills alongside academic depth. Popular undergraduate programs include:
1. Biological Sciences
2. Computer Science
3. Economics
Postgraduate Degrees
The university offers a wide range of master’s programs that deliver advanced knowledge and industry-aligned expertise. These programs are well-suited for students pursuing careers in Engineering, Business, Public Policy, Healthcare, and Scientific Research. Popular postgraduate programs include:
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
2. Master of Science in Computer Science
3. Master of Public Health (MPH)
PhD Degrees
For students pursuing advanced research and academic leadership, the university offers an extensive portfolio of doctoral programs. These PhD programs emphasize interdisciplinary research, innovation, and scholarly excellence. Popular doctoral offerings include:
1. PhD in Biological Sciences
2. PhD in Engineering
3. PhD in Environmental Science and Policy
University of California Davis Tuition Fees
Understanding the cost of studying at UC Davis is essential for effective financial planning. As part of the University of California system, the university offers subsidized tuition for California residents while remaining competitive for out-of-state and international students.
In-state undergraduate students pay approximately $15,000 per year in tuition and systemwide fees, while out-of-state and international undergraduates can expect costs of around $48,000 annually. Graduate tuition varies by program, with in-state rates starting at approximately $16,000 per year and non-resident rates averaging $32,000, excluding program-specific fees. Additional expenses include housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal costs, which should be planned in line with the cost of living in Davis, California.
Cost Category | Estimated Annual Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Housing & Meals (On-Campus) | $18,000–$20,000 | Residence halls and university meal plans |
Housing & Meals (Off-Campus) | $15,000–$18,000 | Shared apartments typically lower cost |
| Books & Supplies | ~$1,200 | Depends on course and major |
| Transportation | ~$900–$1,200 | Biking and local transit common |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | ~$2,000–$3,000 | Includes leisure, utilities, phone |
| Health Insurance | ~$3,000 | Mandatory for international students |
| Total Estimated Living Cost | $22,000–$27,000 | Excludes tuition fees |
University of California Davis Scholarships
UC Davis offers a wide range of merit-based and need-based scholarships to support domestic and international students. Incoming undergraduates may qualify for Regents Scholarships, Provost Scholarships, and departmental awards based on academic excellence. Graduate students can access fellowships, research, and teaching assistantships. An incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides $12,000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of notable scholarships available at the university!
Scholarship Name | Eligibility / Notes | Typical Award (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Regents Scholarship | Awarded to top academic performers; includes priority registration | Up to $7,500 per year |
Provost Scholarship | Merit-based award for high-achieving undergraduates | $3,000–$5,000 per year |
| Dean’s Scholarship | College-specific merit scholarships | $1,000–$4,000 per year |
| Middle Class Scholarship | For California residents meeting income criteria | Varies (partial tuition coverage) |
| Departmental Scholarships | Program or major-specific awards | $1,000–$3,000 annually |
University of California Davis Admissions Process
The university follows a structured and transparent admissions process designed to support applicants at every stage. Whether applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, students must meet academic and documentation requirements to be considered for admission. Below is a step-by-step overview of the admissions process.
1. Fill out the Application: Apply online through the University of California application portal.
2. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable $80 application fee is required.
3. Submit Academic Transcripts: Provide official high school or college transcripts.
4. Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are not required.
5. Personal Insight Questions: Applicants must complete UC Personal Insight responses.
6. Letters of Recommendation (Program-Specific): Some programs may request academic or professional references.
University of California Davis Eligibility Criteria
UC Davis follows a holistic admissions process, assessing applicants based on academic performance, coursework rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal achievements. Eligibility requirements vary by program, but the general criteria below apply to most applicants. Here are the general requirements for the undergraduate and graduate programs!
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degrees
1. Academic Performance: Applicants must have completed high school or equivalent with a strong academic record and required A–G coursework.
2. Standardized Test Scores (Optional): SAT or ACT scores are not required.
3. English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. Minimum requirements typically include TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 7.0, or Duolingo: 115.
4. Personal Insight Responses: Required as part of the UC application.
Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degrees
1. Academic Background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Certain programs may require GRE or GMAT scores, while others have waived this requirement. Applicants should check their program's specific criteria.
3. English Proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL 80, IELTS 7.0, or Duolingo 115.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
University of California Davis Student Life
UC Davis offers a lively student life focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. With over 800 student organizations, students can participate in academic societies, cultural groups, athletics, and volunteer initiatives. The campus is especially known for its bike-friendly layout and eco-conscious culture. Beyond campus, students enjoy the relaxed college-town atmosphere of Davis, with local cafés, farmers’ markets, and restaurants. Popular weekend destinations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe, offering a balance between academic life and recreation.
University of California Davis Placements
UC Davis provides strong career development support through its Internship and Career Center (ICC). Approximately 90 percent of graduates secure employment or pursue further education within six months of graduation. The university alumni work across sectors such as Biotechnology, Technology, Healthcare, Environmental Science, and Public Policy. Top recruiters include Google, Amazon, Genentech, Intel, and the California State Government. The average starting salary for UC Davis graduates is approximately $74,000 per year, depending on the field of study and degree level.
Student Apartments near the University of California Davis
While the university provides on-campus housing, many students choose to live off-campus for added independence and flexibility. The neighborhoods surrounding the university offer a range of housing options, from shared apartments with roommates to modern studios just minutes from campus.
Well-equipped student housing communities near the university come with amenities like study lounges, fitness centers, and convenient access to public transportation. For those seeking safe and affordable off-campus housing, amber provides a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here is the top off-campus housing option near the university!
1. The Bernice - Located 11 minutes from the university, this property has luxurious facilities like a pool, a fitness center, and much more. This property has a variety of 1B, 2B, and studio options!
2. Academy 65 - Located 10 minutes from the university, this property has luxurious facilities like a large hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, and much more. This property has a variety of 1B and studio options!
We hope that you now have an overall idea of everything that you need to know about applying to UC Davis! Make sure that you choose the program you really want to pursue to avoid regrets later on. Choosing a student apartment near your university will help you save time in commute and allow you to explore your interests more. Enjoy your university experience to the fullest!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of California Davis best known for?
It is best known for Agriculture, Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Veterinary Medicine.
What famous people went to the University of California Davis?
University of California Davis notable alumni include Hasan Minhaj, Ann Veneman, and Jack Conte.
What is the cost of the University of California Davis?
Annual tuition is approximately $15,000 for California residents and $48,000 for non-residents.
Is the University of California Davis CA, private or public?
University of California Davis is a public institution and one of the best colleges in the US.
Is the University of California Davis California, hard to get into?
The University of California Davis acceptance rate is 40%, which means that the college is moderately to highly selective in admitting students.