Application Components

Once you’ve decided which program you want to apply for, it’s time to prepare your UC Davis graduate program application. We recommend giving yourself plenty of time prior to the application deadline to compile and complete your application materials. 

Every graduate program at UC Davis requires the following components as part of their application:

  • A completed UC Davis online application
  • An application fee
    • $135 for U.S. applicants
    • $155 for international applicants
  • Letters of recommendation (please check your graduate program requirements!)
  • Admissions Essays:
    • Personal history and diversity statement
    • Statement of purpose
  • Academic transcripts from all prior institutions (see note below)

Program-Specific Application Components

It is possible your graduate program could require additional application materials, such as portfolio samples, writing samples, CV upload, or have supplemental questions on the application. Please view your program's specific admissions requirements page for a complete list of requirements and instructions on how they should be submitted. Do not submit any application materials that are not required by the program. Be sure to read all instructions carefully - most application materials must be submitted as a part of the online application process.

Letters of Recommendations Should Be Submitted Electronically

Requesting and receiving letters of recommendation can be a lengthy process. We recommend you begin this process early in your application process. UC Davis only accepts electronic letters of recommendations via the admissions applicant portal.

Instructions for Submitting Letters of Recommendation 

You May Use Unofficial Transcripts for Your Application

Transcripts are required from all college-level institutions. You may use unofficial transcripts uploaded as .pdfs for your UC Davis application. Official transcripts are only required if you are an admitted student. You must list every college-level institution you have attended in the online application, including all community colleges, study abroad coursework, etc. If your college or institution does not use the 4.0 scale, do not attempt to convert your GPA. On the application, enter your GPA just as it is on your transcript.

Instructions for Submitting Unofficial Transcripts

You Cannot Make Changes Once You Submit Your Application 

It is important that you review all of your applicant components carefully. You cannot make changes the content of an application once it has been submitted. For that reason, applicants are reminded to check their application carefully before they submit it. Notices reminding applicants that they will not be able to change or add any content in their application are displayed prior to submission. Do not try to correct your application by submitting a new application to the same graduate program. Your second application will not be considered.

We recommend you submit all of your application components, including test scores and transcripts, by the program's deadline.