UC Davis Welcomes a Record-Setting Diverse Class in Fall 2025
The University of California, Davis is making headlines as it embraces one of its most diverse incoming classes in fall 2025. Marking a significant milestone, UC Davis enrolled its highest-ever numbers of both Latinx and African American new undergraduates, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and representation in higher education.
As per the released systemwide enrollment statistics by the University of California on January 8, 2025, UC Davis’s overall enrollment included 40,617 students across various programs. This number represents a slight decrease of 1.5%, or 622 students, from the previous fall. Despite this dip in total enrollment, the university enrolled a robust 9,466 new undergraduates, maintaining a similar count to fall 2024.
Redefining Representation
Diversity at UC Davis shines through in the new cohort of undergraduates. Among this year’s domestic students, a record 428 identified as African American, while an impressive 2,564 were Hispanic/Latino(a). This means that among the U.S. domestic first-year students, 4.6% are African American and 31.7% are Hispanic/Latino(a), marking a step towards greater inclusivity in academic spaces.
The geographic diversity of the student body is notable, with new undergraduates hailing from 54 of California’s 58 counties, 45 states and U.S. territories, and 54 countries worldwide. Approximately 84.6% of these students are California residents, while international students make up 10.7% of the cohort. This blend enriches the campus community, fostering cross-cultural dialogues and collaborations.
Socioeconomic Diversity
In addition to ethnic and geographic diversity, socioeconomic representation is also a key highlight of the fall 2025 incoming class. Approximately 40.3% of new undergraduates are the first in their families to graduate from a four-year university. This statistic emphasizes UC Davis’s commitment to serving diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, about 31.3% of the student body identifies as low income, and 38.1% are recipients of the federal Pell Grant, which serves low-income students.
Academic Excellence
The academic prowess of these new students is equally commendable. Robert Penman, executive director of Undergraduate Admissions, shared that the average GPA for first-year students stands at 4.03, with a median GPA of 4.07. More than 75% of first-year students achieved a weighted GPA above 3.91. Similarly, transfer students also bring strong academic credentials, with an average GPA of 3.57 and a median of 3.59, signifying a high standard of academic preparation across the board.
With a record-setting 120,131 applications for fall 2025, UC Davis’s appeal among prospective students is evident. The university offered admission to an impressive 55,739 students, further testifying to the institution’s commitment to welcoming a diverse array of talent and potential.
Planning for Future Growth
UC Davis’s enrollment numbers are not just figures; they reflect strategic planning for future growth. The university accounts for students studying at various campuses, including the Sacramento campus and other facilities across California. According to UC Davis’s 2018 Long Range Development Plan (LRDP), the capacity limit for the Davis campus is set at 39,000 students. The projected average for the student population for the 2025-26 academic year aligns with this strategic vision, aiming for about 36,000 students over three academic quarters.
As UC Davis embarks on another academic year, its commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive, and academically rigorous environment underscores the university’s pivotal role in shaping future leaders. With continued dedication to expanding access and representation, UC Davis is not just preparing students for academic success but also for meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.