Turn Your Break Into a Global Experience
Spend Your Summer or Winter Break Studying at UC Davis
International students can experience the heart of Northern California while studying at a top 10 U.S. public university! UC Davis International Programs’ Summer and Winter sessions offer students from around the world the opportunity to explore several distinct subject areas while improving their English language and academic skills through our popular Short-Term Content-Based Programs. Each four-week program features a unique cultural and educational experience, a taste of American college life and a chance to make friends from around the world.
Short Programs, Lasting Impact
Intensive learning without the long-term commitment make these UC Davis study abroad programs perfect for your winter or summer break. Visiting international undergraduate students, graduate students and professionals can make the most of their time off by building academic and professional skills that enhance their career prospects—while enjoying the social and cultural benefits of studying abroad.
Whichever program students choose, they’ll have the opportunity to:
- Experience world-class academics at a top-tier U.S. public university
- Take advantage of small class sizes
- Learn from highly qualified and experienced instructors
- Boost English language skills and confidence
- Enjoy daily recreational, cultural and social activities with UC Davis students
- Attend field trips that turn classroom lessons into hands-on practice
2026 Dates and Fees
Winter Session I: Jan. 9–Feb. 6 Winter Session II: Feb. 13–March 13
Summer Session I: July 2–31 Summer Session II: Aug. 7–Sept. 4
Program fee: $2,010 (housing not included) Application fee: $200
Explore our Short-Term Programs
Communication and Culture Program
In this English language and culture program, students dive into U.S. culture through coursework and homestay experiences. They gain the communication skills needed to confidently engage with host families and local communities. Coursework focuses on analyzing American society and culture, using contact assignments and practice with native speakers.
Classroom lessons are enhanced with hands-on cultural activities, including visits to the California State Capitol, Old Sacramento and regional fairs.
I can strongly say that participating in this program was the best choice. I will never forget this summer in Davis.” –Jeongwon Yoo, Japan
English for Science and Technology
This STEM-focused English program helps students build confidence using English in science and technology fields. Students increase their awareness of emerging technologies, expand their technical vocabulary, and develop research and data analysis skills.
Extended learning includes site visits, a guest lecture from an entrepreneur and a sensory activity on the chemistry of coffee—one of UC Davis’ most popular classes!
I am majoring in medicine, and this program was very useful. –Tamar Mosulishvili, Georgia
Entrepreneurship and International Business
This innovative entrepreneurship and business program explores how startups drive the global economy and introduces students to design thinking, a human-centered approach to solving complex problems. Students collaborate to create business plans, improve communication skills and visit UC Davis’ Startup Center.
Design thinking is a completely new thing to me. It’s a little hard but interesting!”
Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Design
In this sustainability-focused program, international students learn about sustainable agriculture and environmental design at one of the world’s leading agricultural universities. Coursework includes global environmental issues, farm tours and hands-on learning at UC Davis’ ag facilities.
I enjoyed learning the history of agriculture, the techniques that we use here, and how to put those techniques into practice, especially those not found in China.” –Tianjiao Yang, China
Extended Study, Deeper Learning
2026 Dates and Fees
Winter Quarter: Jan. 9–March 20 Spring Quarter: April 3–June 12 Summer Quarter: June 26–Sept. 4
Program fee: $4,010 (housing not included) Application fee: $200
Academic Engagement Track
Have more time to spend studying abroad at UC Davis? This academic learning and enrichment program allows students to study at UC Davis for 10 weeks taking a variety of classes that enhance academic preparation and English proficiency. The curriculum emphasizes skill development, language growth and practical application through real-life experiences in U.S. higher education.
I enjoyed the high-level of knowledge of my professors. I acquired more study skills, and my vocabulary and pronunciation improved every day.” –Efren Motto, El Salvador
A Global Experience That Stays With You
Here to Help
Our staff work to make each student's journey to California as smooth as possible, including communicating with partner universities, processing applications, arranging travel to and from the airport, scheduling placement testing, and advising on housing and medical insurance.
Once here, they remain in close contact with students providing counseling on medical issues, cross cultural understanding and travel within the U.S., as well as arranging orientation and closing ceremonies.
At UC Davis, ensuring students have a memorable and successful international experience is our top priority. Our dedicated instructors, staff and student assistants support students from arrival to departure.
“Going home with newfound self-confidence and a positive image of life in the U.S. is what I hope our students will take away from these programs,” said Paula Khodaverdi, former program specialist
During the program, students engage with UC Davis peers through classroom collaboration, cultural exchange and extracurricular activities.
“We help international students learn how college students in California really speak, distinguishing between popular expressions and outdated idioms,” said Kiara Sato, a student assistant.