Chances of Getting Into University of California, Davis
Davis, California • Public University • #28 National • Founded 1905
UC Davis Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
UC Davis Testing Policy
Test-Blind Admissions
University of California, Davis is test-blind — SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process, even if submitted. Your GPA, course rigor, essays, and extracurricular activities carry the most weight in admissions decisions.
About University of California, Davis
UC Davis is a top public research university in Davis, California, known as a global leader in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental science. With a 36.5% acceptance rate, UC Davis offers a friendly, bike-friendly campus culture and access to Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Lake Tahoe.
Top Programs
What Makes UC Davis Unique
- Test-blind admissions — SAT/ACT not considered
- #1 veterinary school in the world
- Largest UC campus by land area — 5,300 acres including research farms
- Bike-friendly culture — one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.
- Top-ranked programs in agriculture, ecology, and food science
UC Davis Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
UC Davis Application Deadlines
How to Get Into UC Davis: Admission Tips
UC schools are test-blind — focus on GPA and coursework rigor
Strong science and environmental extracurriculars stand out
UC PIQs should highlight personal growth and specific achievements
Research experience is valued — especially for STEM applicants
Community service and leadership roles strengthen applications
The Brutal Truth About UC Davis Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 36.5% acceptance rate, UC Davis rejected over 60,325 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At UC Davis, having a 4 GPA and 0 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. UC Davis doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if UC Davis genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 36.5%-acceptance-rate basket.
UC Davis Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Davis?
University of California, Davis has an acceptance rate of 36.5% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 95,000+ applicants, approximately 9,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into UC Davis?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of California, Davis is 4. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.85, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
Does UC Davis require SAT or ACT scores?
University of California, Davis is test-blind — SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process, even if submitted. Admissions decisions are based on GPA, course rigor, essays, and extracurricular activities.
Is UC Davis hard to get into?
Yes, University of California, Davis is selective with an acceptance rate of just 36.5%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does UC Davis cost?
Tuition at University of California, Davis is $14,653 (in-state) / $46,043 (out-of-state) per year, with total cost of attendance at $38,474 (in-state) / $69,864 (out-of-state). However, 67% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $22,000+.
What are my chances of getting into UC Davis?
Your chances of getting into University of California, Davis depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 36.5% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at UC Davis
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