University of California-Davis

Getting in is the hard part. University of California-Davis admitted 41.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of California-Davis actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

Federal research funding turns lab work into real help. More funding means faster treatments, cleaner air and water, safer families and stronger businesses.

• Agriculture and ForestryRanked 1st in the nation
• Veterinary MedicineRanked 1st in the nation
• Brewing Scienceentry level class, Master’s in Brewing Science

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• Testingblind (2027 cycle)

Verified from ucdavis.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

  Up to 350 words

• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

  Up to 350 words

• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

  Up to 350 words

• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

  Up to 350 words

• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

  Up to 350 words

• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

  Up to 350 words

• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

  Up to 350 words

• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

  Up to 350 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from ucdavis.edu.

The sticker price is about $41,238, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $14,741.

The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) provides support to eligible graduate, professional and undergraduate students, with UC Davis committed to using no less than 50 percent of these funds for Emergency Financial Aid Grants.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $80,838.

Verified from ucdavis.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

“Bike from campus to a coffee shop, then head to the MU to pet adorable fluffy friends during finals week, a Tuesday here.”

With roughly 55 miles of bike and pedestrian paths, Davis is easy to get around, where college students fill up tables at nearby restaurants and coffee shops.

Is University of California-Davis test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of California-Davis is blind.

How hard is it to get into University of California-Davis?

Very hard. University of California-Davis admits 41.8% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does University of California-Davis cost?

The list price is about $41,238, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $14,741.

Is University of California-Davis worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $80,838 ten years after enrolling, and 85% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.