The University of California, Los Angeles, more commonly known as UCLA, is a world leader in education and research excellence. Each year, UCLA attracts a massive pool of talented applicants. Its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life make it a dream school for many, but its admissions process is notoriously competitive.
In this guide, we’ll delve into UCLA’s acceptance rates, explore requirements across faculties and detail how to make your application shine.
Getting accepted into UCLA
UCLA’s popularity results in a relatively low overall acceptance rate. In 2024, UCLA received 146,271 freshmen applications, of which only 13,128 were admitted for an acceptance rate of 9.0%.
That said, acceptance rates at UCLA can vary depending on the specific college or major you choose:
- Highly selective majors: Some majors, like engineering, computer science and those in the arts and entertainment, are typically more competitive due to high demand.
- College of Letters and Science: This is UCLA’s largest college and encompasses a wide range of majors with varying levels of competitiveness.
- Professional schools: Graduate programs like the Anderson School of Management and the David Geffen School of Medicine have their own distinct admissions processes and acceptance rates.
UCLA’s admissions process
There are a few key factors you should consider if you want to study at UCLA:
- GPA: As a first-year applicant, a strong high school GPA is crucial. You’re required to have completed 15 A-G courses, with at least 11 courses finished before the beginning of your final year of high school. Ultimately, UCLA looks for academic rigour and consistency throughout your coursework.
- Standardised tests (currently optional): UCLA has made the SAT and ACT optional for the upcoming admissions cycles, but submitting strong scores can bolster your application.
- UC Personal Insight Questions: In lieu of traditional essays, UCLA requires applicants to answer a series of short-response questions. These offer a chance to showcase your personality, experiences and goals.
Like many selective universities, UCLA evaluates applications holistically. This means they consider factors beyond grades and test scores, such as:
- Extracurricular activities: Leadership roles, involvement in clubs or organisations and unique talents demonstrate your passions and commitment.
- Circumstances and background: UCLA values diversity and considers personal challenges or unique life experiences that have shaped who you are.
- Alignment with UCLA’s mission: Highlight how your goals and interests match the values and mission of the university.
Applying to UCLA as an international student
UCLA’s popularity attracts students from across the globe, including Australia and New Zealand. To apply to UCLA as an undergraduate international student, you must have completed high school and have not enrolled in a regular session at any college or university.
It’s also worth noting that UCLA prioritises students transferring from California community colleges, including international students. Historically, more than 80% of admitted international transfer students were enrolled in a California community college at the time of their application.
Australian students are required to complete a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum that meets the minimum academic subject requirement. UCLA encourages students to take challenging courses available at their schools. To be considered for admission to UC, students must successfully complete secondary school and qualify for entry into a competitive university in their home country.
New Zealand students must complete year 13 and achieve a minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3. Be sure to include your NCEA Level 1-3 results on the International Exams section of the application under the Test Scores tab (Step 4 of 5 in Test Scores).
Tips to stand out on your UCLA application
UCLA’s acceptance rates have generally trended downwards in response to increasing applications. To stand out, focus on:
- Academic excellence: Maintain a challenging course load and excel in your classes.
- Passion and purpose: Pursue activities you’re genuinely passionate about and demonstrate growth and leadership.
- Your story: Thoughtfully answer the UC Personal Insight Questions to tell your unique story and convey your fit with UCLA.
While securing admission to UCLA is undoubtedly challenging, it’s certainly not impossible. The key is to submit a thorough and well-considered application that demonstrates your dedication to your field of study and UCLA as a whole. Understanding the competitive nature of the process, emphasising your strengths and highlighting your fit with the university’s ethos will maximise your chances of becoming a Bruin.
UCLA’s financial aid
Unfortunately, UCLA doesn’t offer scholarships or financial aid to undergraduate students who aren’t citizens or permanent residents of the United States. To study at UCLA as an international student, you must be able to prove you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses. You also need to demonstrate adequate medical insurance throughout all periods of enrollment.
As a rough guide, international students will need a minimum of approximately $76,259 to cover their educational and living expenses for a year, with an extra $5,000 recommended for additional personal expenses and contingencies. These estimated costs typically increase annually.
Financial support for international students at UCLA
While financial aid might not be available to you as an international student, there are other options if you aspire to study at UCLA. Spark Finance offers a tuition loan product tailored specifically for Australian and New Zealand students who want to study abroad. Our flexible financial solutions are tailored to your individual needs so you can pursue a unique educational experience overseas.
Explore our FAQs to learn more about our finance options or apply for a Spark Finance loan today.
