UCLA Acceptance Rate 2024: Statistics & How to Get In

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the most prestigious public universities in the United States. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and competitive admissions process, many aspiring students wonder about the UCLA acceptance rate and how to improve their chances of admission.

In this article, I have compiled all the latest statistics, data, and more to help you make your journey easier.

I’ll also offer tips for strengthening your application and discuss what you need to know before applying to UCLA.

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick summary.

UCLA Acceptance Rate: By the Numbers

Let’s start by examining the most recent UCLA acceptance rate data:

As we can see, UCLA’s acceptance rate has become increasingly competitive over the years, with the most recent data showing an acceptance rate of just 8.2%. This places UCLA among the most selective public universities in the nation.

You can learn more about it here.

Is UCLA Actually Hard to Get Into?

Given the low acceptance rate, it’s clear that gaining admission to UCLA is indeed challenging. The university receives applications from some of the brightest students across the globe, making the admissions process highly competitive. 

Here are a few factors that contribute to UCLA’s selectivity:

1. Academic excellence: UCLA seeks students with outstanding academic records, including high GPAs and challenging coursework.
2. Holistic review: The university considers not just grades and test scores but also extracurricular activities, personal achievements, and potential contributions to the campus community.
3. Limited spots: As a public university, UCLA must balance out-of-state and international admissions with its commitment to California residents, further intensifying competition.
4. High-quality applicant pool: The students applying to UCLA are often top performers from their respective high schools, raising the bar for admission.

What would the UCLA Acceptance Rate be for all?

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a prestigious public research university founded in 1919. It is known for its emphasis on interdisciplinary teaching and exposes undergraduates to research opportunities in their early stage of education. 

Therefore, securing a seat at UCLA is the ultimate goal of a lot of students. However, the cutthroat competition and lower acceptance rate make the University of California one of the toughest institutes to enroll in.

Hence, a clear knowledge of the admission rate is a must to boost your UCLA preparation. 

In 2022, UCLA’s acceptance rate was 9%. However, the university’s general acceptance rate is usually between 12% and 14%. 

However, the admit rate greatly varies depending on which college you’re applying to. For instance, UCLA School of Engineering, Nursing and the School of Theater, Film, and Television are some of the hardest to get into. 

The admission rate of the School of Nursing in 2021/2022 was only 1%. And in fall 2021, out of 5429 applicants, only 56 were admitted, and 46 were enrolled. 

In contrast, the acceptance rate for the School of Music is approximately 20%. 

Geographical origins also affect acceptance rates. Admission trends reflect that the possibility of getting selected for domestic applicants is higher than for international students. 

What Is The A to G Set of Courses at UCLA?

The A to G requirements are a set of high school courses that students must complete with a grade of C or higher to be eligible for admission into UCLA. 

Here is the list of A to G high school-approved courses: 

1. History 

You must study 2 years of history that includes:  

• One year of world history, culture, and geography. 
• One year of U.S history or 6 months of U.S history and six months of civics or American government. 

2. English

You need to study four years of college preparatory English which combines classic and modern literature, frequent and regular writing, and practicing listening and speaking. 

3. Mathematics 

3 years of Mathematics is required, but 4 years is recommended. Your education history must show that you’ve studied three years of college preparatory math plus topics covered in elementary Algebra, advanced algebra, and two-dimensional geometry. 

4. Science 

Two years of college preparatory science is required (3 years recommended). This should include topics that provide fundamental knowledge in two of these subjects: physics, chemistry, and biology. 

Besides computer science, engineering, and other applied science courses can also be referred to in this section. 

5. Language Other Than English 

You must study a language other than English for two years (3 years recommended) to the second level of high school instruction. Within this period, you must learn grammar, vocabulary, reading, composition, etc. The ultimate goal is to be able to speak and understand the language completely. 

6. Visual & Performing Arts

A yearlong or two-semester course in visual and performing arts on music, dance, theater, and visual or interdisciplinary arts is required to get admission into UCLA. 

7. College-Preparatory Elective  

Students must study one year or two semesters in addition to those required in (A-F) above, specifically categorized as elective subjects, to get selected for UCLA. 

What GPA Is Needed for Acceptance to UCLA?

UCLA has a strict GPA system as defined by the UC system. According to that, California residents must secure a 3.0 GPA, and non-California residents have to get a 3.4 GPA in all A to G courses with a grade of not lower than C to be accepted for UCLA admission. 

Are SAT and ACT Mandatory for UCLA?

No SAT and ACT are not mandatory for UCLA. UCLA does not consider these scores for admission or scholarship. 

If you still submit such test scores, they may be only considered for alternative methods of course placement or fulfilling minimum requirements after enrollment, not before. 

Things to Know Before Getting Into UCLA

If you’re considering applying to UCLA, here are some important factors to keep in mind:

1. Cost of attendance: While UCLA is a public university, out-of-state and international students face significantly higher tuition rates. Be prepared to explore financial aid and scholarship options.
2. Campus culture: UCLA has a diverse and vibrant student body. Research the campus culture to ensure it aligns with your preferences and goals.
3. Academic programs: Familiarize yourself with UCLA’s academic offerings and ensure they match your interests and career aspirations.
4. Location: UCLA is situated in Westwood, Los Angeles. Consider whether you’re comfortable with urban campus life and the opportunities and challenges that come with it.
5. Competitiveness: Be prepared for a rigorous academic environment where high-achieving peers will surround you.
6. Research opportunities: UCLA is a major research institution. If you’re interested in research, explore the various opportunities available to undergraduates.
7. Athletic programs: UCLA has a strong athletic tradition. If you’re an athlete or sports enthusiast, consider how this might impact your college experience.

Basic Tips to Keep in Mind for UCLA

While admission to UCLA is competitive, there are several strategies you can employ to strengthen your application:

1. Excel academically: Maintain a high GPA and challenge yourself with rigorous courses, including AP, IB, or honors classes.
2. Showcase your passions: Demonstrate depth and leadership in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and potential major.
3. Craft compelling essays: Use your personal insight questions to highlight your unique experiences, perspectives, and potential contributions to UCLA.
4. Demonstrate impact: Show how you’ve made a difference in your school or community through volunteer work, research, or other meaningful activities.
5. Align with UCLA’s values: Familiarize yourself with UCLA’s mission and values, and demonstrate how you embody these principles in your application.
6. Consider applying early: While UCLA doesn’t offer early decisions, submitting your application early can show your enthusiasm and ensure all materials are received on time.
7. Seek strong letters of recommendation: Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential for success at UCLA.

Related read:

• What is Good GPA in High School
• Tuition-Free Phd Programs and Universities
• Colleges With Lowest Acceptance Rate

Conclusion: UCLA Acceptance Rate

That’s everything you need to know about the UCLA acceptance rate. Yes, UCLA’s acceptance rate is quite low, but that’s what makes it one of the top universities in the entire United States. 

As a UCLA aspirant, you have to start your preparations early, be exceptionally good at the A-G set of courses, and try to beg for some international badges to add extra weight to your applications. Remember that an average application with no special achievement has almost zero chances of getting selected. 

Do you have additional queries about UCLA? If yes, leave them in the comments. 

FAQ: UCLA Acceptance Rate