Parents and Families

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is UC Davis like?
• UC Davis combines the rigorous academics of a top five public research university with a collaborative approach, comprehensive support resources and a welcoming college town atmosphere. We have state-of-the-art facilities set around a spacious central campus, with plenty of green outdoor spaces and a friendly Northern California feel.
• Is Davis really a college town?
• Yes! Students make up approximately half of the population of the city of Davis. A walkable downtown is just a short stroll from campus and has student-oriented restaurants, shops, entertainment and services.
• What will my student study?
• We offer 100+ majors hosted by our four undergraduate colleges, meaning your student can pursue just about any field of study they can imagine! We know that, as they explore and mature, students’ interests often change, so we allow students to switch majors and give them guidance as they do it.
• Is UC Davis on the quarter or semester system?
• UC Davis is on the quarter system. Students enjoy the fast pace and academic variety of quarters, though they have to hit the ground running and stay on top of their studies, as the 10 weeks pass quickly.
• Where will my student live?
• Most entering freshmen and about a third of entering transfer students live on campus in our residence halls, which offer social and academic support as well as award-winning dining services. After their first year, most students live off campus in student-centered housing.
• Where will my student eat?
• Students living on campus eat in our dining commons, which feature local and sustainable ingredients including produce grown on our student farm. You’re even invited to submit your favorite family recipes to the chefs! The student-run Coffee House food court is another popular option for all students, as well as the food trucks that regularly visit campus.
• How will my student get around?
• The city and university are proud to be a national leader in the bike-friendly movement. The city has many miles of bike lanes and paths, and central campus is closed to vehicle traffic, meaning students can easily bike and walk to classes and around town. Our Unitrans bus system also serves the entire city of Davis, and students ride free.
• Will my student be safe at UC Davis?
• Both campus and the city of Davis have a communal, small-town atmosphere where the safety of the entire university community is a top priority. UC Davis has its own full-service police and fire departments and offers a campus Safe Ride program at night.
• What health care services are available at UC Davis?
• Through Student Health and Counseling Services, UC Davis students can receive primary and specialty care, clinical support, and pharmacy, optometry, nutrition and counseling services. The Sutter Davis hospital, with urgent and emergency care, is just a 10-minute drive from campus.
• How do UC Davis students get involved and connected?
• Students can easily get involved in campus life through residence hall activities, intramural and club sports, study groups, student-focused support centers, introductory programs like First Year Aggie Connections or First Year Seminars, or through one of our 800+ student organizations. Explore our student communities!