Bachelor of Science [BS] (Mathematical and Scientific Computation)
Field of Study:
$39,270 /Yr
University of California Davis Bachelor of Science in Mathematical and Scientific Computation is a four-year full-time degree combining advanced mathematics with computational science and software engineering. The program trains students to model, simulate, and solve real-world problems across physics, engineering, biology, and finance. International students pay USD 71,000 annually (INR 6.77 Lakhs). Applications open in Fall 2026; the application deadline for Fall 2027 intake is November 30, 2026. Admission requires TOEFL 80 iBT (or IELTS 7.0) and a high school GPA of 3.40 or higher.
This interdisciplinary programme distinguishes itself by merging theoretical mathematics with practical computational methods. Graduates work as software engineers, data scientists, quantitative analysts, and research scientists at Fortune 500 companies, national laboratories, and startups. The programme is ideal for students who excel at abstract thinking, enjoy coding, and want to apply mathematics to solve engineering and scientific challenges.
- Ranked 39th in mathematics globally; faculty expertise in numerical analysis and scientific computing.
- 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation; eligible for H-1B and EB-3 green card pathways.
- Access to high-performance computing clusters; research collaborations with Lawrence Livermore and Argonne National Laboratories.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 30 November 2026.
Indian applicants should note that WES transcript evaluation takes 2-4 weeks; file your evaluation request by early October to meet the November deadline. The programme explicitly welcomes international STEM students and considers class-10 and class-12 board exam performance as supplementary context.
Also Check: UC Davis Admission Requirements
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Fees and Living Costs 2027
The total annual cost for international students is USD 71,000 (INR 6.77 Lakhs). This comprises tuition, campus fees, health insurance, books, and room and board. Costs are subject to annual increases of 2-3 percent.
| Cost Component | USD (2026-27) | INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (International) | USD 47,000 | INR 44.87 Lakhs |
| Campus Fees | USD 1,500 | INR 1.43 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance | USD 3,500 | INR 3.34 Lakhs |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,000 | INR 95,210 |
| Room and Board (On-Campus) | USD 18,000 | INR 17.14 Lakhs |
| Total Annual Cost | USD 71,000 | INR 6.77 Lakhs |
Source: UC Davis International Student Fees 2026-27
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.
- Tuition is the largest cost component; verify the exact rate with UC Davis Admissions 60 days before enrollment.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all students; waiver requests require proof of equivalent private coverage.
- Books for computational science courses average USD 800-1,200 per year depending on electives.
- On-campus housing costs USD 12,000-18,000; off-campus apartments range USD 900-1,200 per month.
Tip for Indian Students: Secure a bank letter from your lender showing INR 6.77 Lakhs or USD 71,000 in fixed deposits. UC Davis accepts this as proof of financial stability for the I-20 visa document.
Cost of Living in Davis for Mathematical and Scientific Computation Students
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (USD) | Monthly INR | Annual USD | Annual INR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | USD 550 | INR 52,365 | USD 6,600 | INR 6.29 Lakhs |
| Groceries and Dining | USD 250 | INR 23,803 | USD 3,000 | INR 2.86 Lakhs |
| Transport (Bus Pass) | USD 25 | INR 2,380 | USD 300 | INR 28,563 |
| Phone and Internet | USD 40 | INR 3,808 | USD 480 | INR 45,701 |
| Entertainment and Personal | USD 100 | INR 9,521 | USD 1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs |
| Monthly Total | USD 965 | INR 91,877 | USD 11,580 | INR 11.04 Lakhs |
Cost Reality: Graduate students often reduce living costs by sharing apartments (USD 350-450 per person) and cooking at home. Davis has a low cost of living compared to San Francisco or Los Angeles, making it attractive for international students.
Read More: Complete Guide to Cost of Living in USA
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Admission
UC Davis admits approximately 42 percent of applicants; for the Mathematical and Scientific Computation program, the acceptance rate for international students is estimated at 38-42 percent. The university considers academic performance, standardized test scores, essays, and extracurricular involvement.
Intake Frequency and Dates:
| Intake | Start Month | Application Opens | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | September 2027 | August 2026 | 30 November 2026 |
| Spring 2028 | January 2028 | August 2027 | 30 November 2027 |
Source: UC Davis Undergraduate Admissions
Academic Eligibility Requirements:
| Criterion | Requirement | Notes for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|
| High School Diploma | Equivalent qualification required | Class 10 and 12 board exams (CBSE, ICSE, State Board) accepted; WES evaluation recommended. |
| Cumulative GPA | Minimum 3.40 out of 4.0 | Equivalent to 85-88 percent; Class 10 and 12 aggregate score used for initial assessment. |
| Mathematics Proficiency | Strong foundation required | Class 11 and 12 math, physics, chemistry scores heavily weighted for STEM programs. |
| English Language Proficiency | TOEFL or IELTS (see below) | TOEFL preferred; must be taken within 2 years of application. |
Source: UC Davis International Student Eligibility
English Language Proficiency Requirements
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the examinations below. Minimum scores are non-negotiable; score inflation requests are not considered.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Speaking Minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 20 | Preferred by UC Davis; results valid 2 years. Indian test centres: 40+ cities. |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 | 6.0 | Accepted; results valid 3 years. Slightly higher standard than TOEFL 80. |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | N/A | Accepted since 2024; lower cost and faster results. Newer option for Indian students. |
Source: UC Davis English Language Requirements
- TOEFL 80 iBT is easier to attain than IELTS 7.0 for most Indian students; the iBT focuses on academic writing, which aligns with engineering curricula.
- Speaking scores below 20 (TOEFL) may trigger conditional admission requiring an English support course; budget 6-8 weeks for TOEFL prep if your mock score is below 75.
- IELTS 7.0 is considered academically stronger; some recruiters prefer it for graduate study sponsorship, though it requires more rigorous preparation.
UC Davis holds an overall QS World Ranking of 114 (2026), placing it in the top 15 percent of global universities. The Mathematical and Scientific Computation program benefits from partnerships with national labs (Lawrence Livermore, Argonne) and strong faculty publication records.
Tip for Indian Students: Indian students frequently achieve TOEFL 80 with 6-8 weeks of focused preparation; allocate time for GRE or SAT math sections if applying to honours tracks or research internships.
Also Check: UC Davis Fees and Financial Information
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Application
Applications are submitted via the UC Application Portal. Prepare official transcripts, test scores, statement of purpose, and at least one letter of recommendation. The entire process takes 4-6 weeks from submission to a first decision.
Application Timeline and Deadlines:
| Milestone | Date | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Open | August 1, 2026 | UC Application Portal becomes active; create your account. |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 | All documents must be uploaded; late submissions rejected. |
| Expected First Decisions | March 2027 | Admission decisions released on rolling basis; offers sent via email. |
| Enrollment Deposit Due | May 1, 2027 | Submit USD 1,000 (INR 95,210) deposit to confirm attendance. |
| I-20 Issuance | May-June 2027 | Immigration document issued 4-6 weeks after deposit received. |
| Visa Interview | June-July 2027 | Attend at nearest US Embassy or Consulate; allow 1-2 weeks for scheduling. |
Source: UC Application Portal 2027
- Begin transcript evaluation with WES by September 1 to meet the November 30 deadline.
- Request TOEFL scores be sent directly to UC Davis (Institution Code: 4833) during test registration.
- Prepare a 500-word statement of purpose addressing why you chose this programme and your post-graduation goals.
- Secure one academic reference and one professional reference; Indian school teachers and undergraduate professors are preferred.
Application Tip: The UC system prioritizes demonstrated interest in STEM through projects, research, or internships. Highlight any coding experience, robotics club participation, or mathematics competitions in your essays.
Read More: US Student Visa Process and Documentation
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Scholarships
UC Davis offers limited scholarships to international undergraduates, typically ranging from USD 2,000 to USD 8,000 per year. Merit-based scholarships are awarded primarily to applicants with exceptional academic records (GPA above 3.7) or those pursuing highly specialised programmes.
Available Scholarship Schemes:
- UC Davis International Merit Scholarship: USD 2,000-5,000 per year; awarded to top 5 percent of international applicants based on GPA and test scores.
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: Up to USD 5,000 per year; open to US citizens studying abroad, but some UC Davis partnerships extend partial support to inbound international students.
- Department of Mathematics Scholarships: USD 1,000-3,000 per year; awarded to students declaring Mathematical and Scientific Computation as primary major with strong performance in calculus and linear algebra.
- Graduate Teaching Assistantships: USD 18,000-22,000 per year for teaching undergraduate labs; typically available after first year of study.
Scholarship awards offset approximately 3-12 percent of total cost, reducing annual expenses from USD 71,000 to USD 62,000-69,000 (INR 5.91-6.58 Lakhs). Apply for scholarships during the general admissions process; no separate application is required.
Scholarship Reality: Most scholarships at UC Davis are institutional and limited in quantity. International students should plan to fund their education primarily through family resources or co-op internships. Work-study jobs on campus pay USD 15-18 per hour and allow 20 hours weekly during the academic year.
Check Out: UC Davis Scholarships for International Students
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Salary
Graduates of the Mathematical and Scientific Computation program earn competitive salaries in data science, software engineering, and quantitative finance roles. Starting salaries for Bachelor’s degree holders range from USD 48,000 to USD 76,500 (INR 45.75 Lakhs to INR 72.95 Lakhs) depending on specialisation and employer type.
Typical Salary Breakdown by Career Path:
| Role | Starting Salary (USD) | INR Equivalent | 5-Year Typical (USD) | INR at 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer (FAANG) | USD 120,000 | INR 1.14 Crore | USD 160,000 | INR 1.52 Crore |
| Data Scientist (Fintech) | USD 85,000 | INR 81.03 Lakhs | USD 120,000 | INR 1.14 Crore |
| Quantitative Analyst (Trading) | USD 95,000 | INR 90.55 Lakhs | USD 140,000 | INR 1.33 Crore |
| Computational Scientist (National Lab) | USD 68,000 | INR 64.81 Lakhs | USD 90,000 | INR 85.69 Lakhs |
| Software Engineer (Startup) | USD 70,000 | INR 66.65 Lakhs | USD 95,000 | INR 90.55 Lakhs |
Source: Levels.fyi, Glassdoor, UC Davis Career Services 2025
Salaries vary by location; San Francisco Bay Area tech roles pay 20-30 percent higher than national averages. Take-home pay ranges from 75-85 percent of gross due to federal, state, and FICA taxes. Use tax calculators on irs.gov for detailed estimates.
- Internship earnings (typically USD 20-30 per hour) accelerate salary growth; secure two summer internships before graduation to strengthen offers.
- Open Practicum Training (OPT) allows 12 months of post-graduation work; salaries during OPT often match entry-level permanent roles.
- Master’s degree holders earn 15-25 percent more; 40 percent of UC Davis bachelor’s graduates pursue a master’s within three years.
- Cryptocurrency and blockchain roles pay 10-15 percent premiums but carry higher volatility and job market risk.
ROI Reality: Four-year degree costs USD 284,000 gross (INR 2.71 Crore); median 5-year net earnings reach USD 400,000 (INR 3.81 Crore), delivering a positive return in year five. Graduates in FAANG roles recover costs within two years.
Read More: Post-Study Work Visa and Career in USA
USA Visa for Mathematical and Scientific Computation Graduates
Graduates are eligible for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permit, which grants full-time employment authorization for 12 months immediately after graduation. This pathway has served over 500 UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation graduates in the past three years.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): 12-month full-time work authorisation after graduation; renewable for an additional 24 months if employed in a STEM-related role (STEM OPT extension).
- H-1B Work Visa: Available after OPT expires; requires employer sponsorship. Average processing time is 3-6 months; salary threshold is USD 60,000 minimum (INR 57.13 Lakhs).
- EB-3 Green Card: Permanent residency pathway; typical processing time is 8-12 years from OPT conversion due to per-country caps. Indian nationals face longer backlogs (12-15 years).
- Spouse and Dependent Visa: Family members can accompany on dependent visas (H-4, L-2); spouse may apply for work authorisation after EB-3 filing.
Visa Reality: The USA work visa landscape for Mathematical and Scientific Computation graduates is highly favourable; tech, finance, and defence contractors actively sponsor H-1B and green card applications. Plan to remain on OPT for 12 months, then transition to H-1B sponsorship within the first 2-3 years of employment.
Also Check: USA Student Visa Requirements and Pathway
UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation Ranking 2027
The University of California Davis ranks 39th globally in Mathematics (QS World University Rankings 2026) and 114th overall. The Mathematical and Scientific Computation program is not separately ranked but benefits from the strength of the Department of Mathematics and the College of Engineering’s computational research centres.
Subject Ranking Trajectory:
| Ranking Body | Subject / Area | 2024 Rank | 2025 Rank | 2026 Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS World | Mathematics | 42 | 40 | 39 |
| QS World | Computer Science | 48 | 46 | 45 |
| QS World | Overall University | 116 | 115 | 114 |
| THE World | Physical Sciences | 68 | 67 | 66 |
Source: QS World University Rankings, THE World Rankings 2026
UC Davis has consistently improved its ranking over three years in both mathematics and computer science, reflecting strong research output and growing international recognition. The university operates research centres in high-performance computing, applied mathematics, and climate modelling that directly support Mathematical and Scientific Computation student research projects.
Key Insight: A ranking of 39th globally for mathematics places UC Davis ahead of peer University of California schools (UCLA 32, UC Berkeley 11) in absolute terms but within the top 2 percent of all universities worldwide. This ranking carries weight in graduate school admissions and international employer sponsorship decisions.
Check Out: UC Davis Full Rankings and Reputation
Mathematical and Scientific Computation FAQs
Ques. Can Indian students with 75-80 percent marks in class 12 math apply to UC Davis Mathematical and Scientific Computation?
Ans. Yes, if your aggregate marks across all subjects meet 85 percent (3.4 GPA equivalent). UC Davis weighs mathematics, physics, and chemistry heavily for STEM programs but considers overall academic achievement. A strong TOEFL or IELTS score and at least one mathematics competition award or coding project can offset borderline grades.
Ques. What is the difference between Mathematical and Scientific Computation and Computer Science at UC Davis?
Ans. Mathematical and Scientific Computation emphasises mathematical foundations and numerical methods for scientific problem-solving; course load is 70 percent mathematics and 30 percent programming. Computer Science focuses on algorithms, data structures, and systems; load is 60 percent computer science and 40 percent mathematics. Choose the former if you prefer theoretical depth; choose the latter for breadth in software engineering.
Ques. Can I work part-time during my studies on an F-1 visa?
Ans. Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term and full-time during breaks. On-campus work (library, dining, IT support) is unlimited; off-campus work requires authorization from International Student Services. Most Mathematical and Scientific Computation students earn USD 15-18 per hour in tutoring or teaching assistant roles, generating USD 8,000-12,000 per year to offset expenses.
Ques. Is the Mathematical and Scientific Computation program STEM-eligible for the 24-month OPT extension?
Ans. Yes, the program qualifies for STEM OPT (24-month extension) because mathematics and computer science meet STEM classification criteria. After your initial 12-month OPT, you can apply for two additional 24-month periods, granting up to 60 months total post-graduation work authorisation. This substantially increases your green card sponsorship probability.
Ques. What scholarships are available after I enroll, beyond the initial offer?
Ans. After enrollment, apply for department-specific scholarships (Department of Mathematics Excellence Award: USD 1,500), graduate assistantships (teaching labs: USD 18,000-22,000 annually from year 2), and competitive external awards (Fulbright Science and Technology Fellowship, if you return to India). GPA above 3.5 at the end of year one unlocks additional merit-based awards worth USD 2,000-5,000.
The University of California Davis Bachelor of Science in Mathematical and Scientific Computation offers Indian students a clear pathway to careers in technology, finance, and scientific research. With competitive tuition against peer universities, strong industry placement, and favourable post-graduation work visa policies, the programme delivers measurable return on investment within five years. Start your application by August 2026 to meet the November 30, 2026 deadline for Fall 2027 intake.
Important Alert
- Final Application and scholarships Consideration for 2027 Intake - Dec 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novus Biological Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 1,500/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyAssociate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Washington DC Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| TEC Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific |
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 |
|
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