University of California UC
The University of California opened its doors in 1869 with just 10 faculty members and 38 students. Today, the UC system includes more than 233,000 students and more than 190,000 faculty and staff, with more than 1.7 million alumni living and working around the world.
Thinking about which University of California campus — or campuses — to apply to can be an exciting, thought-provoking and possibly intimidating process. You have nine choices available. That means nine geographic locations, tempos and personalities to consider.
It's helpful to understand that while all UC campuses provide creative and challenging learning opportunities, not every campus is suited to every student. Along with thinking about what you want scholastically — which is certainly important — reflect on what you're looking for socially and geographically, too.
Our admission guidelines are designed to ensure you are well-prepared to succeed at UC. If you're interested in entering the University of California as a freshman, you'll want to be sure to review these requirements carefully.
Information for international students
Applicants from around the world are welcome at UC. In addition to satisfying the academic requirements, you'll also need to pass an English exam and secure a visa.
Most families pay less than the full price of attending UC. In fact, more than half of our undergraduate students pay no tuition at all. Over two-thirds of UC undergraduates receive grants and scholarships, with an average award of around $16,300. But to get financial aid, you need to apply.
PLEASE NOTE: The UC system no longer considers SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship!
If you choose to submit test scores as part of your application, they may be used to determine your eligibility for the California statewide admissions guarantee, as an alternative method of fulfilling minimum requirements for eligibility or for course placement after you enroll.
Details regarding UC’s testing policy are provided on the UC admission website for future application terms beyond 2022.
The UC Application includes these questions to get to know who you better. Think of them as interview questions. Whatever questions you answer, make sure you show your personality—just as you would in real life.You have eight questions to choose from but you must respond to only four. Each response is limited to 350 words and the questions you choose to answer are entirely up to you - no questions is "better" to answer than another. Need some help?
UC Major selection
In most cases, students are not admitted or denied to a UC campus by major, however there are some exceptions. Most campus will evaluate students applying to the college of Engineering, Nursing or Fine/Performing Arts by additional standards. Majors located in the college of Letters and Science do not factor into the admission process. Majors in other areas may be capped, but this will vary by campus. Do your research!
Freshman admission profiles summarize the academic qualifications of applicants and admitted freshmen to each UC campus for fall 2022. While the information is helpful in determining your fit for a campus, please be cautious in drawing conclusions from this information. The numbers are useful only as a general guide to selectivity and not as a predictor of your chances for admission to a particular campus.
Video series on the uc applications!
UC Application Tutorial
