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🎓 UC Davis Scholarships: What Parents Need to Know
The University of California, Davis is one of the most popular and respected campuses in the UC system. But here’s what many families don’t hear up front: UC Davis offers very little merit aid—and that can catch families off guard, especially if your kid is applying from out of state.
There are big-name opportunities like the Regents Scholarship, plus need-based options like the Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan for California residents. But unlike some other public universities, UC Davis doesn’t hand out automatic merit scholarships based on GPA or test scores.
That doesn’t mean it’s off the table. It just means families—especially out-of-state families—need to look closely at the numbers. This page will walk you through what scholarships are available, who gets invited to honors, and how to figure out if UC Davis is still a smart value for your student.
📚 Cost of Attendance | 🟦 Automatic Scholarships | 🏆 Competitive Scholarships | 💎 Hidden Gems | 🎓 Honors College | 📝 What To Do Next
📚 Cost of Attendance (2025–2026)
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the estimated total cost of attendance at UC Davis varies significantly depending on whether your student is a California resident or not.
| Type of Student | Tuition & Fees | Room & Board | Total (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Resident | $15,100 | $17,000 | $32,100 |
| Out-of-State | $15,100 + $32,500 OOS surcharge | $17,000 | $64,600 |
UC Davis lists a sticker price of over $64,000 for out-of-state students—but most families won’t pay that full amount. Use the Net Price Calculator to estimate your actual cost based on income, residency, and financial aid eligibility.
• In-state students (family income $48K–$75K): ~$13,400/year
• Out-of-state students (same income range): ~$38,000–$45,000/year
These figures reflect the average cost after grants—but before loans or outside scholarships.
No. UC Davis does not participate in WUE and does not offer automatic tuition waivers for out-of-state students. Nonresidents must pay the full supplemental tuition unless they later gain California residency—something that’s difficult to achieve as an undergraduate.
🟦 Automatic Scholarships
Unlike some public universities, UC Davis does not offer automatic scholarships based on GPA or test scores alone. All merit-based scholarships at UC Davis require a full admissions review—and many are competitive or need-based.
If your student is a California resident with financial need, they may automatically qualify for aid through the Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan or Cal Grant programs. However, these are not tied to academic stats and are only available to in-state students who meet FAFSA or CADAA requirements.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan | CA residents with family income under $80,000 | Full systemwide tuition covered | Must submit FAFSA or CA Dream Act by March 2 |
| UC Davis Undergraduate Scholarships | Varies by donor; some based on GPA, major, background | $1,000–$5,000 | Apply via the UC application; most are need-based |
Because UC Davis doesn’t publish GPA cutoffs or award charts, there are no guaranteed scholarships just for having a high GPA or ACT/SAT score. All aid is determined through holistic review and financial need.
💬 FAQs: Automatic Scholarships at UC Davis
Does UC Davis offer scholarships based on GPA or test scores?
No. UC Davis does not award automatic scholarships just for having a high GPA or test score. All merit aid is reviewed holistically and is often tied to financial need, residency, or specific departments.
Can out-of-state students get automatic scholarships at UC Davis?
No. There are no automatic scholarships or tuition waivers for out-of-state students at UC Davis. Nonresident students must pay the full supplemental tuition unless they qualify for limited competitive aid or private scholarships.
What is the Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan?
This is a need-based aid program for California residents whose family income is under $80,000. If eligible, UC covers full systemwide tuition and fees—though room, board, and other costs are not included.
Do I need to apply separately for UC Davis scholarships?
Not usually. Most scholarships are linked to your UC application and FAFSA or CA Dream Act application. Some departmental or donor awards may have separate forms or essays.
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
Most of the major scholarships at UC Davis are competitive, meaning students are evaluated individually through the UC application—not automatically awarded based on GPA or test scores. Some of these awards are highly selective and invite-only, while others are open to any student who qualifies academically and financially.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regents Scholarship | Top 1–2% of applicants; invitation only | $7,500/year | Most prestigious UC Davis award; includes priority registration, honors housing option, and faculty mentorship |
| UC Davis Continuing Undergraduate Scholarships | Returning students; merit or need-based | $1,000–$5,000 | Separate application required each year; priority to high-need students |
| Departmental & Donor Scholarships | Varies by college/major | $500–$4,000 | Available through the general UC Davis scholarship application; criteria may include GPA, major, or background |
Because these scholarships are competitive, there’s no guarantee—even for high-achieving students. However, applicants with a strong academic record, thoughtful application essays, and financial need have a higher chance of receiving these awards.
Not exactly. UC Davis will automatically consider all applicants for certain awards like the Regents Scholarship—but that doesn’t mean everyone with a high GPA will receive one. These scholarships are competitive and limited.
Others, like departmental and donor-funded scholarships, require students to fill out the UC Davis scholarship application to be considered.
Don’t miss the March 2 deadline: To qualify for most scholarships and need-based aid at UC Davis, students must submit the FAFSA (or California Dream Act application) by March 2, 2025.
💬 FAQs: Competitive Scholarships at UC Davis
What does “invitation only” mean for the Regents Scholarship?
It means students cannot apply directly. The admissions office reviews all UC applications and selects top applicants—usually the top 1–2%—to receive the Regents offer. You’ll be notified if your student is chosen.
Can out-of-state students receive the Regents Scholarship?
Yes. Both California and out-of-state students are eligible for the Regents Scholarship. However, the award amount is the same for all students and does not cover the full out-of-state tuition surcharge.
How do you apply for departmental or donor-funded scholarships?
Students must complete the UC Davis scholarship application, which opens in fall and is due by early January. Some awards may require specific majors, GPAs, or financial need.
Do you need to submit the FAFSA or CADAA to be eligible?
Yes—most scholarships at UC Davis require students to file the FAFSA or California Dream Act application by March 2 to be considered for need-based and many merit-based awards.
What happens if I miss the March 2 deadline?
Missing the March 2 FAFSA or California Dream Act deadline means your student likely won’t qualify for UC grants or most scholarships tied to financial need—even if your income would have qualified. You can still submit the FAFSA later, but your aid options will be limited. If you’re close to the deadline, submit something and update it later.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships at UC Davis
UC Davis doesn’t just offer big-name scholarships like Regents—there are also smaller, often overlooked awards for students with specific interests, backgrounds, or talents. These might not be front and center on the financial aid site, but they can add up fast—and many can be stacked with other aid.
| Scholarship or Program | Who It’s For | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UC Davis Marching Band Scholarship | Members of the Cal Aggie Marching Band | Varies | Open to all majors; auditions required; awards vary by instrument and leadership role |
| Campus Arts & Performance Awards | Students involved in music, theater, dance, or visual arts | $500–$2,000 | Often awarded through campus departments or donor funds; may require a portfolio or audition |
| First-Generation Initiative Scholarships | First-gen college students (parents didn’t earn a 4-year degree) | $1,000–$5,000 | Available through the UC Davis scholarship application; often tied to financial need |
| Identity-Based Scholarships | Students from underrepresented backgrounds (e.g. Latinx, African American, LGBTQ+) | $500–$5,000 | Many are donor-funded and require essays; check the “Profiles in Excellence” and Diversity Scholarships list |
| Community Service & Leadership Awards | Students with a strong record of service or activism | $500–$3,000 | Included in general scholarship pool; highlight your involvement in the UC application |
While these scholarships aren’t always easy to find, they can make a real difference—especially for students who don’t qualify for large merit aid. Encourage your student to mention service, talents, or background clearly in their UC application and explore department and club-based opportunities once enrolled.
Yes—many students combine smaller awards from different sources to lower their costs. For example, a student might receive a departmental scholarship, a first-gen award, and a marching band stipend all in the same year. These “hidden gems” may not cover everything, but together they can put a real dent in your total cost.
💬 FAQs: Hidden Gem Scholarships at UC Davis
How do you find smaller scholarships like these?
Most are included in the UC Davis scholarship application. Others are offered through academic departments, cultural centers, or student clubs. Once enrolled, your student can also apply for leadership or campus involvement awards each year.
Can my student apply for these even if they don’t qualify for big merit aid?
Absolutely. Many of these smaller awards don’t require top test scores or GPAs. Instead, they recognize community service, artistic talent, first-gen status, or personal background—and they’re often more accessible than competitive scholarships like Regents.
Can students stack multiple scholarships?
Yes. At UC Davis, students can stack several smaller awards—like a departmental scholarship, a first-gen award, and a marching band stipend. While some need-based aid may adjust slightly if you receive additional funds, most scholarships work together to reduce your total out-of-pocket cost.
Is there a separate application for things like band or arts scholarships?
Usually, yes. The Cal Aggie Marching Band requires an audition and application through the band program. Similarly, arts scholarships may require a portfolio or separate audition. Your student should reach out to those departments directly to learn more.
What if my student forgot to include something in the UC application?
Unfortunately, the UC application can’t be edited after submission—and it’s the main tool UC Davis uses to consider students for many scholarships. If your student didn’t mention things like leadership roles, cultural background, or special talents, they may miss out on certain awards this year. Encourage them to keep a detailed list and speak up early once enrolled—many scholarships for returning students are available each year through the campus scholarship portal.
🎓 Honors College
UC Davis doesn’t have a separate honors college, but it does offer the University Honors Program (UHP)—a selective, invitation-only experience for high-achieving students. Students in UHP benefit from smaller classes, priority registration, faculty mentorship, and access to unique research and community engagement opportunities.
Most students are invited based on their UC application, typically before admission decisions are released. However, current UC Davis students can also apply to UHP later during their first year.
| Program | How to Qualify | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| University Honors Program (UHP) |
First-year: Invitation-only based on UC app (typically GPA 4.2+) Continuing student: Apply after 1st year with 3.7+ UC GPA |
Priority registration, small honors classes, research support, peer community, faculty mentorship |
The University Honors Program itself does not offer a scholarship. However, many students in UHP are also selected for awards like the Regents Scholarship or other donor-funded scholarships. Being part of the honors community can also lead to unique research grants, leadership opportunities, and faculty mentorship that may open doors to future funding.
💬 FAQs: University Honors Program at UC Davis
How do students get into the Honors Program?
Most students are invited based on their UC application—usually those with a GPA above 4.2 and strong essays. Invitations are sent before admission decisions. If your student isn’t invited, they can still apply after their first year at UC Davis if they have a 3.7+ GPA.
Is the Honors Program only for California residents?
No—out-of-state students are eligible too. UHP selections are based on academic performance and potential, not residency.
Does the Honors Program come with a scholarship?
Not directly. UHP doesn’t offer a scholarship by itself, but many students in the program also receive awards like the Regents Scholarship or departmental grants. Being in UHP can help open the door to other opportunities.
Can students apply later if they aren’t invited as freshmen?
Yes. Continuing students with a UC GPA of 3.7 or higher can apply during their first year. Selection also considers leadership and engagement, not just grades.
📝 What To Do Next
- Apply by the UC deadline (November 30) — there’s no Early Action, so don’t wait
- Submit the FAFSA or CA Dream Act by March 2 for need-based aid and most scholarships
- If invited, respond to the University Honors Program invitation promptly
- Complete the UC Davis Scholarship Application by the January deadline
- Encourage your student to highlight service, identity, or leadership in the UC app — these matter for “hidden gem” awards
- Use our Brag Sheet Builder to help your kid stand out
🧰 Parent Tools: These free resources can help you stay organized and give your kid an edge:
If you’ve made it this far, you already know UC Davis isn’t overflowing with automatic scholarships. But if your kid gets in — and you can make the numbers work — it can be an incredible place to learn, grow, and launch their future. Just don’t let the name on the sweatshirt distract you from the math.