University of California Davis: Admissions, Courses, Acceptance Rate, Scholarship, & Housing Guide
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If you’re dreaming of studying in the U.S., the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) deserves a spot at the top of your list in 2025. Known globally for excellence in agriculture, veterinary science, engineering, and biological sciences, UC Davis also boasts a 98.2% job placement rate within six months of graduation. In this guide, we will walk you through everything that you need to know about University of California, Davis from its acceptance rate, rankings to fees and scholarships. Let’s go!
Why Should You Choose University of California Davis in 2025?
University of California, Davis (UC Davis), with over 39,000 students from 100+ countries, and a campus that spans 5,300 acres is the largest in the entire UC system. Ranked #130 globally by QS World University Rankings 2025 and #33 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report, UC Davis is particularly renowned for its programs in agriculture, veterinary science, engineering, computer science, and biological sciences. In fact, its College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is consistently ranked among the best in the world.
The university also has high placement rates, with top recruiters like Google, Apple, Genentech, and Intel actively hiring UC Davis graduates. Add to that a reasonable 42% acceptance rate, excellent support for international students, and proximity to major innovation hubs like San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Below are the key details of University of California, Davis:
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1905 |
| Campus Size | 5,300 acres |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #130 globally |
| Campus Location | Davis, California |
| Placement Rate | 98.2% placement rate within six months of graduation. |
| Top Recruiters | Amazon, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Apple, AT&T, Intel, and Google |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Engineering, Biological Sciences, Computer Science, Agricultural Sciences |
| English Language Exam Required | TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent |
| Acceptance Rate | 42% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | Approximately $50,328 |
| Website | UC Davis Official Website |
Which Courses Are Popular at University of California, Davis in 2025 and What Are Their Fees and Eligibility?
The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) offers more than 187 courses. . In 2025, UC Davis continues to shine for its top-ranked programs in STEM, Business, Agriculture, and the Arts. Courses like MS in Data Science, MBA, B.Tech in Computer Engineering, and B.Sc. in Biological Sciences are among the most sought-after programs by international students due to their global recognition and strong return on investment.
The first-year tuition fee for international students typically ranges between $27,000 and $65,000, depending on the course. Admission is competitive and based on strong academic records, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo), and program-specific requirements like GRE, GMAT, SOPs, and portfolios. Below are the key details of University of California, Davis, popular courses, alongside fees and eligibility criteria:
| Course Name | 1st Year Tuition Fees (USD) | Eligibility Criteria |
| MS | $27,000 – $65,000 | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 7.0–7.5, TOEFL: 80–100, Duolingo: 115+ |
| B.Sc. | $46,000 – $48,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 115+ |
| B.A. | $46,000 – $48,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 115+ |
| B.E./B.Tech | $45,000 – $48,000 | High school diploma with PCM, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 115+ |
| MBA/PGDM | $28,000 – $63,000 | Bachelor’s degree, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, GMAT/GRE, IELTS: 7.0–7.5, TOEFL: 100–105 |
| M.A. | $28,000 | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 7.0–8.0 |
| B.Agri | $46,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| MFA | $28,000 | Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 7.0+ |
| B.Arch | $46,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| BBA | $46,000 – $48,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| MEng | $28,000 | Bachelor’s in Engineering, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 7.0–7.5 |
| B.J.M.C. | $46,000 | High school diploma, GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 80+ |
| M.Agri. | $28,000 | Bachelor’s in Agriculture, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 7.0+, TOEFL: 80+, Duolingo: 115+ |
| LL.M. | $56,000 | Bachelor’s in Law or equivalent, GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, IELTS: 6.5+ |
Where Does University of California, Davis Rank in 2025?
If you’re looking for a globally recognized university with strong academic credentials and standout subject rankings, the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) should definitely be on your radar in 2025. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, UC Davis ranks #62 globally, placing it as the 10th best public university in the United States.
It also holds an impressive spot in the QS World University Rankings 2025, coming in at #130 globally, while the U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities 2025 ranks it at #89 globally. Domestically, UC Davis is ranked #33 among National Universities in the U.S. and #9 among Top Public Universities by U.S. News. Washington Monthly also places UC Davis at #11 among public universities in the country. Below are the key details of University of California, Davis rankings in 2025
| Ranking Body | Category | Rank (2025) |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | World University Rankings | #62 globally (10th among U.S. public universities) |
| QS World University Rankings | Global Universities | #130 globally |
| U.S. News & World Report | Best Global Universities | #89 globally |
| National Universities (USA) | #33 overall | |
| Top Public Universities (USA) | #9 nationally | |
| Washington Monthly | Public Universities (USA) | #11 nationally |
| U.S. News & World Report | Agricultural Sciences | #13 globally |
| QS World University Rankings (By Subject) | Agricultural Sciences | #2 globally |
| Veterinary Science | #2 globally | |
| Other Strong Subjects | Biology, Biotechnology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Food Science, Engineering | N/A – among top globally in subject-specific rankings |
How Competitive Is the Acceptance Rate at University of California, Davis in 2025?
The University of California, Davis maintains a moderately competitive admissions process in 2025 with an overall acceptance rate of approximately 42%. This means that for every 100 applicants, around 42 students are admitted, making it more accessible than top-tier UC campuses like UCLA or UC Berkeley—yet still selective enough to require a strong academic profile. First-year applicants typically fall within a weighted GPA range of 4.03–4.27 and an unweighted GPA range of 3.82–4.00.
The application fee is $80, and the university uses a holistic review process that goes beyond grades and test scores. It considers 13 factors including leadership, extracurriculars, personal insight questions, and how students have made the most of opportunities available to them. Below are the key details of University of California, Davis acceptance rate:
| Admission Metric | Details |
| Acceptance Rate (First-Year) | 42% (approx. 41.9%) – Moderately competitive |
| Application Fee | $80 |
| Weighted GPA Range (Middle 50%) | 4.03 – 4.27 |
| Unweighted GPA Range (Middle 50%) | 3.82 – 4.00 |
| Transfer Admission Rate (2023) | 64.5% |
| Average Transfer GPA (2023 Admit Cycle) | 3.43 – 3.89 |
| Minimum GPA Required for Transfer (CA Residents) | 2.40 in UC-transferable courses (UC-wide minimum); 2.80 for UC Davis |
| Minimum GPA Required for Transfer (Non-Residents) | 2.80 in UC-transferable courses (UC-wide minimum); may need higher for select programs |
| Holistic Review Criteria | 13-factor comprehensive review, including academic achievement, leadership, personal insight, and life circumstances |
Which Scholarships Can International Students Apply for at University of California, Davis in 2025?
If you’re an international student planning to study at the University of California, Davis in 2025, there are plenty of scholarships available to help fund your academic journey. Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or graduate program, UC Davis offers a mix of merit-based, need-based, and external scholarships that can significantly reduce your tuition burden.
In fact, more than 60% of UC Davis students receive some form of financial aid, and international students are no exception. Some awards require a separate application, while others are automatically considered at the time of admission. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular scholarships available to international students at UC Davis in 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Reward & Number of Recipients |
| Global Excellence Scholarship | High-achieving international undergraduate students | Up to $13,000/year, renewable for up to 4 years; awarded to 15–20% of international UG admits |
| International Student Scholarship (ISS) | International UG/PG students enrolled at UC Davis | $2,000–$8,000/year; limited scholarships offered annually |
| Provost Award | First-year undergraduate students from outside California | Up to $13,000/year for 4 years; awarded to a few hundred high-achieving non-resident students |
| Regent Scholarship | First-year and transfer students with exceptional academic records | $7,500/year for 4 years (UG) or 2 years (transfer); given to 1% of admitted students |
| Dean’s Scholarships (Graduate GSM) | Graduate School of Management (MBA, MPAc, MSBA) applicants | $10,000–$35,000/year; awarded to 30–40% of GSM applicants |
| MM Fellowships (Graduate GSM) | Master of Management applicants with academic or leadership excellence | Up to full tuition (~$54,000); typically offered to top 10% of applicants |
| UC and CSU Alumni Grant (GSM) | UC or CSU undergrad alumni applying to UC Davis GSM | $5,000–$10,000 one-time award; given to select alumni applicants |
| Military Fellowship Support (GSM) | U.S. military veterans or active-duty members | Full or partial tuition waiver; varies; approx. 10–15 awards annually |
| Fulbright Scholarship (External) | Graduate students from eligible countries | Fully funded (up to $60,000+ /year); awarded to 4,000+ students globally annually |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship (External) | Graduate students accepted at Cambridge (external opportunity) | Full tuition + stipend (~$35,000–$50,000/year); approx. 80–90 scholarships awarded yearly |
Where Can You Stay While Studying at University of California, Davis in 2025?
If you’re planning to study at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) in 2025, finding the right place to live is just as important as choosing your course. UC Davis, ranked among the top 10 public universities in the U.S. and #130 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025), is home to over 39,000 students, including over 7,000 international students. The university is located in Davis, a charming, student-friendly city known for its green spaces, bike paths, and close-knit community.
Naturally, this creates a high demand for both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options—so it’s best to plan early! Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or transfer student, UC Davis offers flexible and comfortable housing solutions to suit every lifestyle and budget. From fully furnished residence halls to independent off-campus apartments, there’s something for everyone.
On-Campus Housing at UC Davis
On-campus housing is a popular choice, especially for first-year students. UC Davis guarantees housing for all incoming freshmen, helping new students quickly settle into college life. You’ll find a mix of traditional dormitories and apartment-style accommodations, all within walking or biking distance to classes, dining halls, libraries, and recreational centers. Following are the estimated costs of on-campus housing at UC Davis:
- Traditional residence halls: ~$20,771/year
- On-campus apartments: ~$20,058/year
- Studio apartments: ~$29,763/year
Off-Campus Housing at UC Davis
For students seeking more independence or privacy, off-campus housing in Davis is a great option. The city has a strong rental market built around the student population, with most apartments located within 1–3 miles of campus. UC Davis also provides resources like housing listings and rental search tools to help students navigate their options. According to recent rental data, the average cost of a unit-leased apartment is about $2,425/month, while the average bed lease rate is approximately $1,168/month. Below are the estimated Monthly Rent in 2025:
- Studio apartments: $1,200 – $1,600
- 1-bedroom apartments: $1,500 – $1,800
- 2-bedroom apartments: $2,200 – $2,600
- Shared rooms in 2–4 bedroom apartments: $900 – $1,200 per person
Conclusion
UC Davis checks every box for international students in 2025. With more than 187 globally ranked courses, scholarships worth up to $54,000, and housing options starting around $900/month. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in hands-on research, explore California’s innovation hubs, or just enjoy a safe, inclusive campus—UC Davis is ready to welcome you. Planning to study at UC Davis? Let University Living help you find the perfect student accommodation near campus. Compare, shortlist, and book with expert support and exclusive deals—because your student life deserves to start right!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Davis in 2025?
The University of California, Davis has a moderately competitive acceptance rate of approximately 42% in 2025. This means that around 42 out of every 100 applicants are admitted. While it’s not as selective as campuses like UCLA or UC Berkeley, UC Davis still values strong academic performance and a well-rounded profile. The middle 50% of admitted first-year students had weighted GPAs between 4.03 and 4.27, and unweighted GPAs between 3.82 and 4.0.
What are the most popular courses at UC Davis for international students?
In 2025, international students at UC Davis are especially drawn to programs like:
1. MS in Data Science
2. MBA
3. B.Sc. in Biological Sciences
4. B.Tech in Computer Engineering
5. MEng, MFA, LL.M., and Agricultural Sciences programs
Tuition fees range from $27,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on the course and level of study. English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo) and GPA requirements also vary by program.
What is the global ranking of University of California, Davis in 2025?
UC Davis is highly ranked across multiple platforms in 2025:
#130 globally in QS World University Rankings
#62 globally in Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings
#89 globally in U.S. News Best Global Universities
#9 among top U.S. public universities (U.S. News)
It’s also #2 globally in Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, which makes it a top pick for students interested in environmental and life sciences.
What scholarships are available for international students at UC Davis?
UC Davis offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Some of the popular ones include:
Global Excellence Scholarship – Up to $13,000/year, awarded to 15–20% of international undergrads
Provost Award – Up to $13,000/year for out-of-state undergraduates
Regent Scholarship – $7,500/year, for top 1% of admitted students
Dean’s Scholarships – Up to $35,000/year for MBA and MSBA students
Fulbright and Gates Cambridge Scholarships – Fully funded options for graduate students
What is the cost of living near UC Davis for students?
Living expenses near UC Davis vary based on housing preferences. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
1. On-campus residence halls: ~$20,771/year
2. On-campus apartments: ~$20,058/year
3. Off-campus studio apartments: $1,200 – $1,600/month
4. 1-bedroom apartments: $1,500 – $1,800/month
5. Shared rooms in 2–4 BHK flats: $900 – $1,200/month per person
The city of Davis is student-friendly, walkable, and has excellent public transport and biking facilities.
