University of California, Davis

  • Seaside (California)
  • United States of America
English

At a glance

1905

Est.

40k

Students

41%

Acceptance rate

9.9k$

Semester tuition

This is what the university will ask you for in tuition. We don't add any markup or agency fees

350€ reward

Exclusive wearefreemovers incentives: Apply through us, pay the exact same tuition, and still get money back. Includes Cashback + Go-Together + Referral Rewards.

Available subjects

English-taught
  • 📊 Accounting & Finance
  • 🌾 Agriculture & Forestry
  • 🫀 Anatomy & Physiology
  • 🦴 Anthropology
  • 🎨 Art & Design
  • 🧬 Biological Sciences
  • 📈 Business & Management Studies
  • 🧪 Chemistry
  • 🏛️ Classics & Ancient History
  • 📡 Communication & Media Studies
  • 💻 Computer Science & Information Systems
  • 🌋 Earth & Marine Sciences
  • 💹 Economics & Econometrics
  • 📚 Education & Training
  • 🧪 Engineering Chemical
  • 🏗️ Engineering CiviI & Structural
  • 💡 Engineering Electrical & Electronic
  • 🛠️ Engineering Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing
  • 📖 English Language & Literature
  • 🌿 Environmental Sciences
  • 🌍 Geography
  • 📜 History
  • 🗣️ Linguistics
  • 🧱 Materials Science
  • 🔢 Mathematics
  • 🌐 Modern Languages
  • 🎭 Performing Arts
  • 💊 Pharmacy & Pharmacology
  • 🤔 Philosophy
  • 🏛️ Social Policy & Administration
  • 👥 Sociology
  • 🏀 Sports-related Subjects
  • 📊 Statistics & Operational Research
  • 🕊️ Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies
  • 🐾 Veterinary Science

About

UC Davis is a top-ranked public research university known for its academic excellence, global engagement, and supportive, student-centered community. Located in the vibrant and bike-friendly town of Davis, California, the university offers a rich blend of rigorous academics and an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and personal growth. Students from around the world choose UC Davis for its strong programs in engineering, biological sciences, agriculture, environmental science, business, arts, humanities, and social sciences. These fields are shaped by cutting-edge research and faculty who are respected leaders in their areas of study.

UC Davis places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world impact. Students have access to undergraduate research opportunities, internships, global study programs, and community-engaged projects that allow them to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. This approach helps students gain professional skills, build confidence, and explore meaningful career paths.

The university is also widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Its focus on environmental stewardship and forward-thinking solutions inspires students to address global challenges with creativity and purpose. The inclusive and welcoming campus community offers countless clubs, organizations, and cultural events that enrich student life and foster a sense of belonging.

With its beautiful surroundings, supportive atmosphere, and strong connections to industry and research partners, UC Davis empowers students to grow, discover new possibilities, and make a positive impact on the world. It is a place where ideas flourish and where students are encouraged to reach for their highest goals.

Rankings and accreditations

Top 0.3%

Of universities worldwide in the CWUR global list

Top 10

Ranked in the top 10 U.S. public universities by THE

64th

Best university in the world according to THE

Academic calendar

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Fall Quarter

Mid September

Mid December

⚠️ Application deadline:

May 1

Winter Quarter

Early January

Mid-Late March

⚠️ Application deadline:

October 1

Spring Quarter

Late March

Mid June

⚠️ Application deadline:

January 5

Prerequisites

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English 🇬🇧

CEFR level
B2
Accepted certificates
TOEFL iBT, IELTS, Duolingo
Additional notes

At UC Davis, there are three different program sections. Depending on the one you choose, a different English language proficiency level is required:

Program Section 1

  • TOEFL: 80 IBT/ 550 PBT minimum score
  • IELTS: 6.5 minimum score

Program Section 2

  • TOEFL: 71 IBT/ 530 PBT minimum score
  • IELTS: 6.0 minimum score

Program Section 3

  • TOEFL: 61 IBT/ 500 PBT minimum score
  • IELTS: 5.5 minimum score

3.0 GPA

A minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required. Applicants slightly below this threshold may still be considered if supported by strong academic progression, relevant coursework, or an exceptional extracurricular profile.

Expense breakdown

Housing

1,300 USD/mo

Food

450 USD/mo

Transport

80 USD/mo

Leisure

320 USD/mo

Semester tuition

This is what the university will ask you for in tuition. We don't add any markup or agency fees

9,890 USD

Living expenses (5 months)

An estimation of what your living expenses could be. You can go cheaper or more expensive, depending on your lifestyle

10,750 USD

Travel & trips

The cost of reaching the destination, having a little bit of fun travels while you're there, and coming back. Again, this varies on your adventurous spirit and spending capabilities

2,000 USD

Estimated semester cost

22,640 USD

wearefreemovers discount

up to 350 EUR

wearefreemovers discount

up to 350 €

wearefreemovers partners directly with universities to make studying abroad more affordable. By applying through us, you keep the official university tuition and get exclusive cashback and referral bonuses.

Cashback

200€

Referral

50€
per person

Go together

up to
100€

Lifestyle

Life in

Davis

Accommodation

UC Davis programs offer two primary accommodation options. Students may choose a homestay, which is organized by the program and arranged directly through our office. To learn more or request a homestay placement, please contact us at [email protected]. Students typically choose this option for a full immersion in US culture. Students will be staying with an American family. There, they will likely live with other exchange students, and eat meals cooked by their American family. This can be a fantastic option for students who would like to improve their English, while immersed in American culture.

Alternatively, students may choose to secure their own apartment housing. Students often find housing through independent searches, including publicly available Facebook groups and campus housing websites. Students may choose this option for independence. They will likely be living with other UC Davis students, and will be responsible for their own food and meals. It is recommended for students choosing their apartment accommodations to secure housing 2-3 months before their program begins. Be on the lookout for scams when choosing this option. For a second opinion or advice on this option, please email our office at [email protected]

Social and extracurricular activities

UC Davis offers many opportunities for students to participate in campus and community life outside of academics. With a large number of student organizations and a walkable college-town environment, students can choose activities that match their interests and schedules:

  • Student clubs and organizations in areas such as academics, cultural and international communities, arts, hobbies, leadership, and volunteer service. During the Fall and Spring quarters, there is an activities fair, where all of our clubs on campus table. There, our students can sign up for the activities.
  • Cultural and community groups that host events, workshops, and celebrations throughout the academic year
  • Campus events and activities including lectures, film screenings, performances, festivals, and student-organized programs
  • Davis Farmers Market, held regularly in downtown Davis, offering local food, fresh produce, crafts, and live music
  • Recreation and fitness options such as intramural sports, group fitness classes, outdoor recreation programs, and extensive bike paths. Many of our students join the intermural sports leagues on campus.
  • Arts and creative opportunities, including student theater, music groups, galleries, and exhibitions
  • Community engagement and volunteering with local organizations, schools, and nonprofits

Visa and immigration

Most international students attending UC Davis enter the United States on an F-1 student visa. UC Davis works with admitted students to provide the required documentation, while the visa itself is issued by the U.S. government.

The general F-1 visa process includes:

  • Admission to UC Davis and confirmation of program participation
  • Issuance of the Form I-20 by UC Davis after students submit the required financial and personal documents
  • Payment of the SEVIS fee required by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  • Scheduling and attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
  • Entry to the United States no earlier than 30 days before the program start date

Once in the U.S., students must maintain a valid F-1 status by enrolling full-time and following U.S. immigration regulations.

UC Davis provides guidance and resources to help students understand visa requirements before arrival and during their studies. For any questions regarding the Visa process, please email [email protected]

Climate

Fall Quarter

Mid September

Mid December
🌡️ 7°C to 32°C

Starts hot and dry with lingering summer heat. October cools gradually, while November and December bring cooler days, morning fog, and occasional rain.

Winter Quarter

Early January

Mid-Late March
🌡️ 4°C to 18°C

Cool and often foggy, especially in the mornings. Winter is mild but damp, with most of the year’s rainfall occurring during this period.

Spring Quarter

Late March

Mid June
🌡️ 8°C to 28°C

Fresh spring weather warms quickly into early summer conditions. April and May are sunny and comfortable, while June begins to feel hot and dry.

Campus location

Video