Bachelor of Science [BS] (Genetics and Genomics)
$39,270 /Yr
University of California Davis Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Genomics is a four-year full-time undergraduate program offered in Davis, California. International students pay US$71,000 annually (INR 6,768,710). The program admits students each fall intake. Applicants need TOEFL 80 or IELTS 6.5. This degree trains geneticists, biotechnologists, and researchers. UC Davis offers hands-on laboratory work and internship placements with Genentech, Agilent, and Pacific Biosciences.
The curriculum emphasizes molecular genetics, developmental genetics, and genomics applications in medicine and agriculture. You begin with foundation courses in chemistry, biology, and mathematics. You progress to specialized courses in embryology, bacteriology, and molecular genetics. UC Davis is ranked #8 nationally for genetics bachelor’s degrees. The program suits students interested in biotechnology, medical research, or pharmaceutical development.
- Ranked #8 nationally for genetics; #1 in California for genetics bachelor’s programs.
- 36-month post-graduation work authorization for STEM graduates under OPT.
- Research opportunities with faculty in genetics, genomics, and plant breeding.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 30 November 2026.
Indian applicants should submit test scores (TOEFL or IELTS) at least two weeks before the deadline to allow for international credential verification.
Also Check: University of California Admission Requirements
University of California Davis Genetics and Genomics Fees and Living Costs 2026
Total annual cost for international students is US$71,000 (INR 6,768,710).
This includes all mandatory fees, health insurance, and living expenses.
| Cost Component | USD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | US$47,000 | INR 4,474,870 |
| Campus Fees | US$1,500 | INR 142,815 |
| Books & Supplies | US$1,000 | INR 95,210 |
| Health Insurance | US$3,500 | INR 333,235 |
| Room & Board | US$18,000 | INR 1,713,780 |
| Total Annual Cost | US$71,000 | INR 6,768,710 |
Tuition covers all coursework and laboratory fees for the genetics program.
Campus fees include student services, library access, and recreational facilities.
Health insurance is mandatory for international students and covers basic medical and emergency care.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.21 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
Cost of Living in Davis for Genetics and Genomics Students
| Expense Category | Monthly USD | Monthly INR |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Housing | US$1,500 | INR 142,815 |
| Food & Groceries | US$400 | INR 38,084 |
| Transportation | US$50 | INR 4,760 |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | US$200 | INR 19,042 |
ROI Reality: Four-year total cost is approximately INR 2.71 Crores. Starting salary is INR 39.36 Lakhs annually, providing payback in 6-7 years post-graduation.
Read More: UC Davis Fee Structure and Tuition Details
University of California Davis Genetics and Genomics Admission
Admission is moderately selective for international applicants. UC Davis admits approximately 35–40% of international applicants overall.
The genetics program prioritizes strong science performance and motivation for genetic research.
| Requirement | Minimum | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| High School GPA | 3.2 | 3.6+ |
| SAT Score | 1250 | 1350–1450 |
| ACT Score | 28 | 31–33 |
| Math Placement | Calculus-Ready | Precalculus or Calculus |
| Biology GPA | 3.0+ | 3.4+ |
UC Davis is ranked #114 globally by QS World Rankings 2026.
English Language Proficiency for Genetics and Genomics
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS.
All coursework, laboratory reports, and research papers are conducted in English.
| Test | Minimum Overall | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
- TOEFL 80 is achievable for Indian students in 8–12 weeks of preparation; mid-band gaps in speaking are common.
- IELTS 6.5 aligns with 6-month preparation for Indian test-takers; speaking penalties often block higher bands.
- Both scores are valid for two years; UCD accepts scores submitted within application deadlines.
- Waivers apply to students from English-medium schools with 2+ years of instruction; verify with admissions office.
Tip for Indian Students: Biology GPA is critical; weak chemistry or physics in 11th–12th grade lowers admission odds even with TOEFL 100+.
University of California Davis Genetics and Genomics Application 2027
UC Davis uses the UC Application portal for all undergraduate admissions.
The application period opens November 1 annually.
| Milestone | Date | Status for Fall 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal Opens | 01 November 2026 | Open |
| International Student Deadline | 30 November 2026 | Open |
| Domestic Student Deadline | 31 December 2026 | Open |
| Admission Decisions Released | 31 March 2027 | Expected |
| Enrollment Deposit Due | 01 May 2027 | Expected |
| Classes Begin (Fall Quarter) | 01 October 2027 | Expected |
- International applicants must submit by 30 November to allow time for visa and credential verification.
- All test scores (SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS) must be sent directly from the testing agency to UC Davis.
- High school transcripts must be official or notarized for applicants outside the US.
Application Tip: Submit two weeks before the deadline to avoid system overload; UC servers face heavy traffic on the final days.
Check Out: Step-by-Step UC Davis Application Guide
University of California Davis Genetics and Genomics Scholarships 2026
International students at UC Davis receive limited institutional scholarships.
Scholarship awards range from US$2,000 to US$8,000 annually (INR 190,420 to INR 761,680).
The average scholarship is US$4,000 annually (INR 380,840), offsetting 5–6% of total cost.
| Scholarship Type | Annual Award USD | Annual Award INR | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-Based Award | US$4,000–8,000 | INR 380,840–761,680 | GPA 3.5+, Test Scores 1350+ |
| International Diversity Grant | US$2,000–4,000 | INR 190,420–380,840 | Demonstrated leadership or need |
| Departmental Award | US$2,500–5,000 | INR 238,025–476,050 | Strong science background, research interest |
- Merit scholarships are non-renewable but may increase in subsequent years based on performance.
- Most scholarships do not cover full tuition; external funding from India (loans, corporate sponsorship) is often required.
- UC Davis does not offer full-ride scholarships to international undergraduates in STEM.
Scholarship Reality: Total four-year scholarship aid averages INR 15.23 Lakhs, leaving INR 2.56 Crores to be funded through loans or family resources.
Also Check: UC Davis Comprehensive Scholarship Opportunities
University of California Davis Genetics and Genomics Salary
UC Davis genetics graduates earn a median starting salary of US$41,334 annually (INR 39.36 Lakhs).
This figure is 30% higher than the national average for genetics bachelor’s graduates.
| Career Path | Starting Salary USD | Starting Salary INR | Common Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | US$42,000–48,000 | INR 40.02–45.72 Lakhs | Lab Technician, Quality Analyst |
| Pharmaceutical Research | US$40,000–46,000 | INR 38.08–43.80 Lakhs | Research Associate, Clinical Analyst |
| Agricultural Genomics | US$38,000–44,000 | INR 36.19–41.91 Lakhs | Crop Geneticist, Field Specialist |
| Graduate School | Stipend: US$18,000–24,000 | Stipend: INR 17.14–22.85 Lakhs | PhD Student, Research Scholar |
Source: College Factual analysis of UC Davis graduate employment data, 2024–2025.
- Gross salaries listed are before taxes; take-home varies by state and employer.
- California state tax averages 9%, reducing net income by approximately US$3,700 annually.
- Biotechnology employers (Genentech, Agilent) typically offer higher salaries and benefits.
ROI Reality: Payback period for the four-year degree is approximately 6–7 years post-graduation in the US, assuming continued employment and visa sponsorship for H-1B work authorization.
Read More: UC Davis Career Services and Alumni Outcomes
United States Visa for Genetics and Genomics
Indian students pursue undergraduate study in the US on an F-1 visa.
The F-1 visa permits full-time study for the duration of the program, typically four years.
- Post-graduation, genetics graduates are eligible for STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) for up to 36 months, allowing full-time work in the field.
- After OPT completion, graduates must transition to H-1B sponsorship or leave the US to maintain employment in the country.
- H-1B visa requires employer sponsorship; salaries above US$85,000 (INR 81.13 Lakhs) increase visa approval odds.
- Green card (Permanent Residency) applications typically require 6–10 years from initial work visa filing.
Visa Reality: STEM OPT extension secures work authorization immediately after graduation, independent of H-1B lottery timing or sponsorship readiness.
Check Out: US Study Visa and Post-Graduation Work Authorization
Choosing UC Davis Genetics and Genomics offers a balance of academic prestige, affordable international tuition, and strong employment outcomes. The program combines hands-on laboratory research with industry internship placements. Indian students benefit from STEM OPT work authorization and career pathways in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research. The decision hinges on your interest in genetic research and willingness to invest INR 2.71 Crores for a four-year US degree with strong ROI.
Bachelor of Science [B.S] Genetics and Genomics FAQs
Ques. Can Indian students pursue internships during the Genetics and Genomics program at UC Davis?
Ans. Yes. F-1 students may pursue part-time internships on campus and full-time internships during summer breaks. UC Davis hosts genetics internships at Genentech, Agilent Technologies, and local biotech firms. Many internships are paid, offering US$18–22 per hour.
Ques. Is the TOEFL 80 score sufficient for genetics coursework, or do students need higher English proficiency?
Ans. TOEFL 80 meets the admission requirement. However, advanced genetics courses involve research papers, peer discussion, and lab communication. Students with TOEFL 85+ experience fewer challenges in writing-heavy courses. Tutoring services at UC Davis support non-native speakers at no cost.
Ques. What scholarships are available specifically for genetics majors from India?
Ans. UC Davis offers merit-based scholarships (US$4,000–8,000 annually) and diversity grants to international students. No scholarship is reserved exclusively for Indian nationals. External scholarships from organizations like ICCR, ICICI, and educational loan providers are available if pursuing education loans in India.
Ques. How does UC Davis rank nationally in genetics and genomics compared to peer US universities?
Ans. UC Davis ranks #8 nationally in the US for genetics bachelor’s degrees, behind UW-Madison (ranked #1). UC Davis offers similar research depth and lab opportunities as peer institutions at significantly lower international tuition than Ivy League alternatives.
Ques. Can genetics graduates from UC Davis pursue further research at the master’s level at the same university?
Ans. Yes. UC Davis offers an Integrative Genetics and Genomics (IGG) graduate group for master’s and PhD study. Bachelor’s graduates in genetics are prioritized for graduate admission. Graduate assistantships provide tuition coverage and stipends of US$18,000–24,000 annually, reducing out-of-pocket cost.
Important Alert
- Priority Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake - Aug 1, 2026 - Oct 1, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $39270 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | $3996 |
| Books and supply | $1205 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $48636 |
| 2023 | $48636 |
| 2022 | $41196 |
| 2021 | $41196 |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Priority Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake | Aug 1, 2026 - Oct 1, 2026 |
| Final Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake | Dec 1, 2026 |
Scores Required
SAT/ACT scores are made optional until fall 2024.
Required Document List
- Apply via University of California application system (single application)
- Self-reported academic records (Grades 9–12)
- Official transcripts (submitted after admission)
- Class 12 completion certificate / proof of graduation
- 4 Personal Insight Questions (essays)
- Application fee (~$95 per campus)
- English proficiency test (TOEFL / IELTS / Duolingo) – if required
- SAT/ACT scores (not required)
- Letters of recommendation (generally not required)
- Financial documents (required after admission for visa)
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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| UndocuScholar Award | 1000 | GPA Of 2.5 |
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,000/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| R&D Systems Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,500/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BL Mandhana Scholarships | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Priority Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake (1st Oct 2026) Final Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake (1st Dec 2026) | USD 39,270 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 15,666 /Yr |
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