The University of California, Davis (UC Davis), founded in 1905, is a renowned public research university located in Davis, California. Known for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and academic excellence, UC Davis offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines.
If you’re considering applying to UC Davis, crafting a compelling application is crucial. Our personal statement editing services and college admissions essay review can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. UC Davis is also featured in our Top 200 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
UC Davis offers over 100 undergraduate majors across four colleges:
- College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences: Renowned for programs in agriculture, environmental science, and sustainability.
- College of Biological Sciences: Offers majors in biology, biochemistry, and related fields.Moonpreneur
- College of Engineering: Provides programs in various engineering disciplines, including biomedical, civil, and mechanical engineering.
- College of Letters and Science: Covers a wide range of majors in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
The university emphasizes interdisciplinary study and research, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career goals.
Admissions Overview
Admission to UC Davis is moderately competitive. For the Class of 2028, the university received 98,861 applications and admitted 41,618 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 42.1%.
Academic Environment
UC Davis maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 21:1, fostering an environment where students can engage with faculty members and participate in research opportunities. The university operates on a quarter system, allowing students to explore a variety of courses throughout the academic year. With a strong emphasis on research, UC Davis provides numerous opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge projects across various fields.
UC Davis Admissions Statistics (Class of 2028)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 98,861 |
| Students Admitted | 41,618 |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 42.1% |
| Middle 50% Weighted GPA Range | 4.00–4.26 |
| Middle 50% Unweighted GPA Range | 3.80–4.00 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 21:1 |
Sources:
Admissions data: UC Davis Admissions
Testing and GPA data: UC Davis International Admissions Brochure
Student Life at UC Davis
UC Davis offers a vibrant campus life with over 800 student organizations, including cultural clubs, service organizations, and academic societies. The campus is located in Davis, a city known for its rich history, arts scene, and culinary offerings. Students actively engage in community service, research, and extracurricular activities, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration.
What’s Good
- Research Opportunities: “UC Davis provides ample opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research across various disciplines.”
- Diverse Campus: “The student body is diverse, creating a rich cultural and intellectual environment.”
- Campus Resources: “The university offers extensive resources, including libraries, research facilities, and cultural centers, to support student success.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Competitive Admissions: “The moderate acceptance rate makes admission competitive.”
- Cost of Attendance: “As a public institution, tuition and fees can be high for out-of-state students, though financial aid is available.”
- Weather: “Davis experiences hot summers, which may be a consideration for some students.”PrepScholar
Admissions Requirements at UC Davis
UC Davis employs a comprehensive review process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, course rigor, and academic trends.
- Standardized Test Scores: UC Davis no longer considers SAT or ACT test scores for admissions decisions or scholarship awards. UC Davis+1University of California Admissions+1
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for UC Davis.
Does UC Davis Require the Common App Essay?
No, UC Davis uses the University of California application system, which includes personal insight questions instead of a traditional personal statement. These essays are crucial for demonstrating fit and passion for your chosen field of study.
GPA Expectations
While UC Davis does not publish a minimum GPA requirement, admitted students typically have a weighted GPA between 4.00 and 4.26. The university places a high value on academic consistency and course rigor, especially in honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment classes. UC Davis
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Nearby and Comparable Universities
UC Davis is widely regarded as one of the top public universities in the U.S., especially in agriculture, environmental science, and biological sciences. It is often compared to both regional peers and nationwide public flagships. Comparable schools include:
- University of California, Berkeley – flagship public institution known for research and academic excellence
- University of California, San Diego – strong in biological sciences and engineering
- University of California, Santa Barbara – known for its programs in environmental science and engineering
- University of Washington – top public university with strengths in various disciplines
- University of Wisconsin–Madison – a top public university known for research and academic breadth
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – renowned for engineering and agricultural programs
These institutions share UC Davis’s emphasis on academic excellence, vibrant campus culture, and post-graduation career success.
Disclaimer:
The information presented in this admissions guide is based on data available as of early 2025 and sourced from official university publications and reputable educational resources. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, applicants should refer to UC Davis Undergraduate Admissions. Vappingo is not affiliated with UC Davis and provides independent editorial support only.