Government Leadership Impact Scholarship

For local, state or federal government employees in a 75% FTE or higher career appointment

Students at the Sacramento campus

As part of our commitment to supporting public service and talent development, the UC Davis Graduate School of Management offers scholarships for government employees (local, state and federal). Scholarships can be used for the Sacramento Part-Time MBA, Bay Area Part-Time MBA, Sacramento Part-Time Master of Management or Bay Area Part-Time Master of Management (MM) programs.

Ideal candidates are accomplished professionals with high leadership potential. These awards are competitive and are awarded based on intellectual curiosity and strength, demonstrated leadership, professional effectiveness, and strong teamwork and communication skills.

The Graduate School of Management offers up to 20 scholarships a year for 75% FTE or higher career employees working in government at the local, state or federal levels.

Interested employees need to first be admitted via the general admissions process.

This scholarship program is open to new students ONLY, applying to start the program in 2026. Please note, a Government Leadership Impact Scholarship can be reduced by other funding students receive from the UC Davis Graduate School of Management.

Am I eligible?

You could be selected to receive a scholarship if you meet the following criteria:

  • Work in local, state or federal government in a 75% FTE or higher career appointment.
  • Admitted to the UC Davis Part-Time MBA or MM program for the upcoming academic year.
  • Strong academic background and potential.
  • Ability to enrich the management education of the MBA or MM program.

How much are the scholarships?

If selected, you will receive:

  • For Bay Area or Sacramento Part-Time MBA programs the scholarship award up to $25,000 per academic year (renewable for one year), for a total of $50,000.
  • For Bay Area or Sacramento Part-Time MM the scholarship award is up to $25,000 total.

How do I apply?

  1. Start your application to the UC Davis Part-Time MBA or MM program.
  2. In the application, under “Program Information”, select your UC Davis Affiliation: Government employee.
  3. Then, in the application under “Supplemental Materials”, upload these required scholarship documents:
    • A 1-2 page essay describing the positive impact you have made in your current or past role(s) within the public sector. and how your experiences have prepared you to contribute meaningfully to the MBA or MM program.
    • An employment verification letter.
    • A letter of endorsement from your current direct manager. (The scholarship committee will consider the letter of recommendation submitted with your MBA or MM application, if it was from your direct manager.)
  4. Submit your application.