Cost of Graduate School

The overall cost of attending graduate school at UC Davis goes beyond tuition and fees. It’s important to consider other costs, such as housing, books, supplies, health care, and other personal and living expenses. There are many ways to fund your graduate education, and we want you to feel prepared and supported.

Below are a few resources to help you estimate the full cost of attending graduate school. Keep in mind, your total cost of attending graduate school will vary depending on personal expenses.

Tuition and Fees 

UC Davis Finance and Business hosts the current tuition costs for graduate students. Visit the Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page to explore current and estimated tuition for in-state, domestic, and international students. 

View Tuition and Fees 

Length of Time to Complete Graduate Program

Understanding the total length of study required for your graduate program will help you better estimate the total costs of your graduate education. 

Generally speaking, most UC Davis master's programs are completed in 1-2 years. Ph.D. programs are typically completed in 4-7 years. Program completion times can vary by program. We recommend contacting your graduate program coordinator to learn more about your specific program’s duration. 

Books and Supplies 

The University of California’s Graduate and Professional Student Cost of Attendance Survey suggests that academic graduate students spend an average of $330 on books, fees, and educational supplies annually.

Housing, Transportation, and Meals 

Graduate students at UC Davis can choose to live on-campus or off-campus, with the majority preferring off-campus housing. The City of Davis has a variety of housing options and many students find living off-campus with roommates to be the most affordable option. 

Helpful Housing Links:

Utilities, Meals, and Other Expenses

The UC’s Graduate and Professional Student Cost of Attendance Survey suggests that, on average, UC Davis students also spend:

  • $720 a month on groceries, snacks, and meals
  • $390 on utilities, phone, and other personal expenses

Transportation Expenses

There are plenty of ways to get around on campus and in the city of Davis. Your transportation expenses can vary depending on your preferred method. 

The City of Davis is a top bike-friendly city in America and UC Davis is recognized as a Platinum Bicycle Friendly University. Additionally, there are a variety of public transportation options available. 

Many of our students forego car ownership while attending graduate school and use a combination of bikes and public transit as their preferred method of transportation. 

Visit our Housing and Transportation page to explore transportation options around Davis.