Important Updates

On behalf of the UC Davis community, we hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe amid the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires. Emotional support or resource assistance is available at UC Davis Mental Health, and for short-term financial hardships, reach out to the Financial Crisis Response Team. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time, and UC Davis remains committed to supporting you in every way possible.

  • OFFICE CLOSURE: Financial Aid and Scholarships will be closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 20, 2025

Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland

First Year

As a first year student, you have so many options available to you that it can be tough to know where to begin. If you are interested in prestigious scholarships, there are plenty of things you can start doing now to prepare for your future applications. Prestigious scholarships are incredibly competitive, but if you start preparing early it will put you in a good position to win! Start by:

  • Taking courses that will develop your academic and/or personal interests.
  • Getting to know your advisors and faculty – this can provide mentoring and build a relationship that will allow faculty and advisors to support your applications with a letter of recommendation.
  • Exploring options for studying abroad, identifying countries of interest, engaging with cultural activities of these countries, and beginning/continuing studying the language of these countries.
  • Joining campus clubs or volunteering with service organizations – focus on meaningful leadership opportunities that relate to your interests.
  • Visiting the Career Center for guidance on resumes. Build a detailed resume of your activities, awards, research, etc.
  • Searching for private scholarships that fund study abroad.
  • Scheduling an appointment with the prestigious scholarships advisor to discuss career goals, identify suitable scholarships, and develop a plan to strengthen your application.

Prestigious scholarships you can apply for: