UC Davis YSP vs UC COSMOS: Which Program Is Right for You?
Two University of California summer science routes that look similar and aren't: COSMOS is a multi-campus academic cluster program — courses, labs, breadth; UC Davis YSP is an individual research placement where you run one project and produce a paper. Choose YSP to generate original research you can enter in competitions, COSMOS to explore a field with UC faculty.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of UC Davis Young Scholars Program (YSP) and UC COSMOS. A blank row is a fact we do not hold — not a zero, and not a no.
| UC Davis YSP | UC COSMOS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $5,600 | $3,500 |
| Application deadline | ||
| Grade eligibility | Grades 10–11 | Grades 10–11 |
| Format | In person | In person |
| Location | Davis, CA, USA | Berkeley, CA, USA |
| Program dates | ||
| Application destination | ysp.ucdavis.edu | cosmos.ucop.edu |
| Organizer | University of California, Davis | University of California |
UC Davis Young Scholars Program (YSP)
UC COSMOS
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, UC Davis YSP or UC COSMOS?
UC Davis YSP: $5,600. UC COSMOS: $3,500. Confirm each figure on the program's official page before budgeting.
Can I apply to both UC Davis YSP and UC COSMOS?
The application destinations are evaluated independently. UC Davis YSP: ysp.ucdavis.edu. UC COSMOS: cosmos.ucop.edu. Review each provider's current instructions before assuming either application is open or compatible with the other.
Which is better for college applications, UC Davis YSP or UC COSMOS?
We do not rank enrichment programs by admissions value. Use the comparison to assess whether each program's documented constraints fit your situation, and check the details that decide it for you on each program's official page.
What grades can apply to UC Davis YSP and UC COSMOS?
UC Davis YSP: Grades 10–11. UC COSMOS: Grades 10–11. Eligibility can change between cycles, so confirm it on each program's official page before applying.
