University of California Scholarships 2026

Fully funded and partially funded opportunities for local and international students to study at one of the world’s leading public university systems.

Overview

The University of California (UC) system, consisting of 10 campuses across the state, is one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the United States. For the 2026 academic year, UC offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and fellowships for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. These awards are available for both domestic and international applicants and are designed to support academic excellence, financial need, and research potential.

Whether you are aiming to study at UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Davis, UC Irvine, or other campuses, scholarships can help reduce tuition costs and provide financial stability throughout your studies.

Quick Facts – University of California Scholarships 2026

• Country: United States (California)
• Institution: University of California (all 10 campuses)
• Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
• Funding Type: Fully funded & partially funded
• Fields Available: All UC academic programs (STEM, Social Sciences, Arts, Business, Law, Medicine, etc.)
• Application Mode: Online
• Application Deadline: Varies by campus & program (generally Nov 2025 – Jan 2026)

Benefits & Coverage

Scholarships at UC can include:

• Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
• Living stipends for housing and meals.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Research and travel grants.
• Paid teaching or research assistantships (for graduate students).
• Access to mentoring, networking, and career development programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must generally meet the following requirements:

• Strong academic background (GPA requirements differ per program).
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students).
• Enrollment or admission into a UC campus degree program.
• Some scholarships require financial need documentation.
• Others may focus on leadership, community service, or research potential.
• Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international students.

Required Documents

• Completed scholarship application form.
• Academic transcripts (high school, bachelor’s, or master’s).
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Letters of recommendation (2–3).
• Personal statement or essay.
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants).
• Resume or CV.
• Proof of income/financial need (if applicable).

How to Apply (Step by Step)

1. Choose your UC campus and academic program.
2. Review the specific scholarship opportunities on that campus.
3. Prepare required documents according to program instructions.
4. Submit an online application through the UC admissions portal.
5. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA for U.S. students, or UC financial aid forms for internationals).
6. Wait for shortlisting or additional requirements (e.g., interviews).
7. Receive scholarship decision with admission offer.

Apply Online 

Selection Timeline

• Nov 2025 – Jan 2026: Application submission.
• Feb – March 2026: Review of applications and interviews.
• April – May 2026: Scholarship decisions announced.
• August – Sept 2026: Classes begin at UC campuses.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Maintain a high GPA and strong academic performance.
• Write a compelling personal statement highlighting your goals and leadership.
• Demonstrate community involvement and extracurricular activities.
• Ask for strong recommendation letters from teachers or employers.
• Apply early to increase your chances.

FAQs

1. Can international students apply?
Yes, UC scholarships are open to international students for both undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. Do all UC campuses offer scholarships?
Yes, each UC campus has its own scholarships, but availability and benefits differ.

3. Are these scholarships fully funded?
Some are fully funded (covering tuition + living costs), while others are partial.

4. Do I need to apply separately for scholarships?
Some scholarships require a separate application, while others are automatically considered during admission.

5. What is the average tuition fee at UC without scholarships?
Tuition can range from $45,000 – $65,000 per year for international students. Scholarships can significantly reduce this cost.

Conclusion

The University of California Scholarships 2026 provide outstanding opportunities for students worldwide to pursue their academic dreams in the U.S. With a mix of fully funded and partial awards across various disciplines, these scholarships ensure financial barriers do not stop talented students from achieving their goals.

If you are aiming to study in the U.S., applying for UC scholarships can open the door to world-class education, global networking, and career success.