SAT Scores and UC Davis

Hi everyone. I'm really hoping to get into UC Davis. In your experience, does the university place a strong emphasis on SAT scores? Could I still get in with a modest score but an impressive list of extracurricular activities?

The University of California system, which includes UC Davis, is currently test-blind for the 2024-2025 application cycle. This means that they do not consider SAT scores at all, whether high or low, during the admissions process. Your SAT score will not affect your chances of admission.

Instead of test scores, UC Davis places greater emphasis on other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, strength of curriculum (meaning the rigor of classes you've taken in high school), personal essays, and indeed, your extracurricular activities.

Extracurriculars can significantly contribute to your application, particularly when they demonstrate a strong passion, commitment, depth of involvement, or leadership. As a guide, the most successful applicants typically have 8-10 total extracurriculars and are highly involved in a select few.

As you prepare your application, focus on presenting your strengths in areas such as leadership, commitment, passion, and achievements, both inside and outside of the classroom. This will help present a strong and holistic picture of who you are as a student and individual. And don't forget to take time to craft strong essays, as UC Davis uses these to understand more about your experiences, goals, and character.