Academic Learning and Enrichment
The Academic Engagement Track provides a broad and enriching undergraduate learning opportunity for students to experience U.S. academic culture. The program is designed for international university students seeking to advance their academic skills, develop global perspectives and improve their English language abilities.
Program Benefits
This program enables students to gain greater confidence studying in English and improve their college readiness for success throughout their undergraduate education. Students will:
- Gain applicable academic skills
- Improve English abilities through an integrated instructional approach
- Develop global competencies
- Learn about American university education and culture
- Engage in hands-on, project-based learning
- Get involved in experiential learning and community engagement on campus
- Study in a safe, welcoming college town
- Receive individualized support and guidance
Program Details
The Academic Engagement Track is a 10-week program (1 quarter) offered throughout the year. Students can participate in as many quarters as necessary. The program features core academic preparation courses focused on undergraduate-level literacy and sustainable development, along with a variety of rotating content-based courses on various topics.
The curriculum emphasizes skill building and language development and provides opportunities for practical application in the classroom and in real-life situations. Students in the program also engage with UC Davis undergraduate students during classroom and extracurricular activities.
Dates and Fees
- Winter 2027: January 8-March 19, 2027
- Spring 2027: April 2-June 11, 2027
- Summer 2027: June 25-September 3, 2027
- Fall 2027: September 24-December 3, 2027
- Winter 2028: January 7-March 17, 2028
- Spring 2028: March 30-June 9, 2028
- Summer 2028: June 23-September 1, 2028
- Fall 2028: September 22-December 1, 2028
- Tuition: $4,010
- Application fee: $100 (nonrefundable)
- Student Services fee: $350
- Textbooks: $50 per quarter
- Optional round-trip airport transportation (SFO to UC Davis): $200 (minimum of 10 students in a group)
- Health insurance: $68.75/week if not insured
All fees are subject to change
Program Requirements
Participants must have a high-school diploma or be at least 18 years old to enroll in this program.
The Academic Engagement Track is designed for students whose English level ranges from high beginner to advanced. Students can enroll at CEFR level A2 or above. This is equivalent to:
- TOEFL IBT: 3 (as of January 2026, previously 40/120)
- TOEFL PBT: 435
- IELTS: 3
- Duolingo: 75
- Michigan English Placement Test: 31
Students have the option of sending evidence of their English language level along with their application, or we will provide you with an English language placement test to determine your level so we can place you accordingly.
Program Courses
Core courses, along with presentations and site visits, allow students to observe current advancements in science and technology and communicate directly with experts. Courses include:
- Two core classes: Academic Literacy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Two pre-determined rotating classes per quarter focused on a particular topic. Sample courses:
- Winter: U.S. Society and Culture, Listening and Speaking
- Spring: Understanding Society Through Social Media, Intercultural Communication Skills
- Summer: Exploring California, Public Speaking Skills
- Fall: Wordcraft (textbook: Great Writing Nat Geo/Cengage), Current Topics in U.S. Society
