Information for Parents & Families

Welcome, Parents & Families!

We know how important it is for you to feel confident about your student’s experience away from home. When your student tells you they want to intern in Washington, D.C., they are taking a significant step toward their future career and independence. We want to assure you that their safety, growth, and academic success are our top priorities.

The UC Davis Washington Program provides a structured, supportive environment where students gain hands-on professional experience without pausing their education. Below, we address the most common questions families have about the program.

Why Washington, D.C.?

This is more than a study abroad trip; it is a career accelerator. Students gain a competitive edge by applying classroom knowledge in professional environments.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 70% of interns receive full-time job offers as a result of their internships. Your student will return with a professional network, a mentor, and a resume that stands out.

Read more about Career Impact 

Will they graduate on time?

Yes. The Washington Program is an academic program. Students remain fully enrolled UC Davis students while in D.C.

During the academic year (Fall, Winter, Spring), students earn UC units for both their internship hours and the required research seminar. These units count toward their degree progress, ensuring they stay on track for graduation.

View Academic Courses & Seminars

Common Questions

  • Is the program safe? Where will they live?

  • Safety is our primary concern. Students live at the UC Washington Center (UCDC), a secure building located near Dupont Circle, just blocks from the White House.

    Security Measures:

    • 24/7 Security: The building is monitored 24/7 by a security guard service and a network-based CCTV system at all entry/exit points.
    • Access Control: The building is locked to the public outside of business hours (7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. M-F). Students are issued a key card required to enter the building, use elevators, and access residential floors.
    • Guest Policy: All guests must sign in at the Security Desk and be issued a Visitor's ID. The Center reserves the right to ask non-residents to leave at any time.

    For a virtual tour and details on the apartments, visit our 'More Than Just an Internship' page.

  • How much does it cost? Is Financial Aid available?

  • We are committed to making D.C. accessible. Here is the financial breakdown:

    • Tuition: Students pay the exact same tuition fees as they would on campus in Davis (for Fall, Winter, and Spring).
    • Financial Aid: Your student's financial aid package travels with them! Because the cost of living in D.C. is higher, the Financial Aid Office will recalculate their need-based aid to help cover the additional costs (housing, airfare). This process happens automatically once a student is accepted.
    • Scholarships: We offer specific funding for students with unpaid internships and merit-based awards.

    Please note: While the Washington Program facilitates the budget adjustment, final packages are determined by the Financial Aid Office. This process can take up to 6 weeks after admission.

    View Estimated Budget View Scholarships

  • How does the program help my student find a job?

  • While students are responsible for securing their own internship, they are never alone in the process. Once accepted, your student gains access to:

    • Individual Advising: 1-on-1 strategy sessions with our staff.
    • Resume Reviews: Professional editing to meet D.C. standards.
    • Exclusive Databases: Access to lists of organizations that actively hire UC students.
    • Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to build confidence before the real thing.

    We encourage you to look at the resources we provide them on the Finding an Internship page.

Still have questions?

We are happy to support you as you support your student.

Email us: [email protected]