A nearly $9.8 million grant will extend the College Corps program at University of California, Davis and allow up to 225 undergraduates each year for the next three academic years to participate in community service while earning financial support, according to a March 10 announcement.
The extension of the College Corps program is significant because it provides students with opportunities to serve their communities, gain professional experience, and reduce educational debt. The program aims to remove barriers that prevent students from engaging in meaningful service and still graduating on time.
UC Davis was chosen as a returning partner for the #CaliforniansForAll College Corps initiative, which is managed by California Volunteers in the Office of the Governor. The new grant includes up to $3.3 million for the 2026-27 academic year and may be renewed for two additional years depending on state funding and program performance.
“The College Corps program at UC Davis has benefitted hundreds of our students, served dozens upon dozens of our community partners, and touched the lives of thousands of Californians,” said Timo Rico, executive director of Student Affairs Assessment and the College Corps Coalition. “Now even more will benefit in the coming years.”
Students who complete 450 hours of service over an academic year receive a pre-tax $7,000 living allowance and a $3,000 education award. The fellowships include work with campus units, government agencies, or community organizations as well as leadership courses and professional development workshops. In its first four years through March 2, 766 students completed nearly 270,000 hours focused on K-12 education, food insecurity, and climate action; economic opportunity will be added as a focus area next year.
Applicants must demonstrate financial need through eligibility for federal Pell Grants or similar aid programs; undocumented students may also qualify under certain criteria. Applications are open until April 2 for priority consideration for the next cohort.
Nonprofit organizations and government agencies can apply by April 30 to host fellows. Online information sessions are scheduled for March 16 and March 31.
University California Davis extends its research and educational efforts globally to address issues like climate change and food security according to the official website. The university features facilities such as the Bodega Marine Laboratory for coastal research according to the official website. It has achieved top national rankings in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and sustainability according to the official website. UC Davis began as an extension of UC Berkeley focused on agriculture according to the official website.
The university continues its mission by serving society through research, education, and public service according to the official website. Gary May served as chancellor of University California Davis according to the official website.