international youth students pose for a group photo at the UC Davis store

U.S. College Study Skills

Master Academic Skills for College Success

Learn essential skills to succeed in the U.S. undergraduate environment. This two-week course is intended for international high school students (ages 14-17) interested in pursuing an undergraduate education in the United States. The course is designed to provide tools and strategies needed to focus, think critically and become an independent lifelong learner to achieve greater success in college and beyond. Experience campus life at a world-class, tier 1 research university known for its rigorous academics and safe college-town atmosphere. Upon completion of the course, students will earn two units of UC Davis academic credit, gain a newfound confidence in their academic performance and have a better understanding of the U.S. college admissions process—particularly the UC Davis admissions process.

Dates and Fees

Summer Session 1: July 7-18, 2025
Summer Session 2: July 21-August 1, 2025

Program Fee: $1,400 (does not include housing)
Application Fee: $100

Program Benefits

Students will improve their academic study skills by learning:

  • College-level writing skills
  • Strategies for active reading and listening
  • Note taking and test preparation
  • Organizational and time management skills
  • Discussion and leadership skills
  • Critical thinking and problem solving
  • How to focus and stay on task
international youth students pose in the UC Davis bookstore with UC Davis gear

Program Details

This two-week program consists of 22 instruction hours. It also includes various social and cultural activities, and tours around the UC Davis campus. 

English Language Requirement

Students will be required to take an English Placement Test to determine eligibility. To optimize learning, we require a minimum English level of 60 on the TOEFL IBT, 500 on the TOEFL PBT, 5 on the IELTS, 45 on the Michigan English Placement Test, 90 on Duolingo or higher.

For a more intensive overview of the U.S. college application process, we also offer our three-week, residential UC Davis Summer Academy.

To learn more about the program or to apply, please contact us at cpeinternational@ucdavis.edu.