University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Admission Requirements

Are you dreaming of joining the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)? Renowned for being one of the Best Universities in the US, a vibrant campus life, and competitive admissions, UCLA is a top choice for students worldwide. But how do you stand out in a highly selective application process? In this guide, we break down the essential requirements to help domestic and international secondary school students prepare for success.a

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) GPA Requirements

Given UCLA's low acceptance rates, a strong GPA is crucial for UCLA applicants to stand out. Here’s what you need to know:

• Recommended GPA: A weighted GPA of 4.18 or higher significantly improves your chances of admission.
  • Weighted GPA includes extra points for honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.
  • For highly competitive programs, like engineering or business, students often have GPAs closer to 4.3.
• Unweighted GPA: Most admitted students maintain at least a 3.9 GPA on a 4.0 scale, reflecting mostly A’s in challenging courses.
  • Focus on core academic subjects like English, math, science, history, and foreign language.
• Class Rigor:
  • UCLA values students who challenge themselves with rigorous coursework in high school.
  • Take honors, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual-enrollment courses to demonstrate your academic preparedness for university-level work.

How to Improve Your GPA:

• Use tools like US College Application Tutors to optimize your academic performance.
• Seek help from IB Tutors in United States or Online AP Tutors to ace advanced coursework. If you don't know how to choose the best tutoring provider, check out some of the Best Tutoring Companies in the US.
• Conduct self-study diligently, including the use of practice questions on platforms like the TutorChase Revision Platform.

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) SAT/ACT/AP/IB Requirements

Standardized Tests

UCLA does not consider SAT or ACT test scores for admission or scholarship purposes. If students choose to submit test scores as part of the application, they may only be used as an alternative method of fulfilling minimum requirements for eligibility or for course placement after enrollment.

For international students, see the Guide to the SAT and ACT for International Students to understand what these tests are.

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Application Requirements

Similar to UC Berkeley, UCLA accepts first-year applications through the UC Application Platform. A successful application involves more than just grades and test scores. UCLA uses a holistic review process, which means every aspect of your application matters.

1. Personal Statement (Personal Insight Questions):

• Respond to 4 out of 8 prompts, with each response capped at 350 words.
• Focus on achievements, personal growth, creativity, leadership, and how you’ve overcome challenges.
• Examples of prompts:
  • Describe how you have demonstrated leadership.
  • Share an experience that shaped your educational goals.

2. Academic Transcripts:

• Submit official high school transcripts.
• Ensure grades are consistent with the academic rigor described in your application.

3. Resume or Activities List:

• Include extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and work experience.
• Highlight how these activities align with UCLA’s mission of academic and community excellence.

4. English Language Proficiency (for International Students):

• Submit one of the following if English is not your first language:
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
  • IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 7.0.
• Proficiency can also be demonstrated through AP/IB English exam scores or high grades in English coursework.

5. Recommendation Letters:

• Typically not required, but may be requested for certain programs like arts or theater.

6. Optional Supplemental Materials:

• Some programs, such as arts, design, or film, may require portfolios or auditions.

Tips for Crafting a Standout Application:

• Get guidance on crafting compelling essays from US College Application Tutors
• Highlight unique experiences or skills that align with UCLA’s values, such as community service or innovative problem-solving.

What You Can Do: Start early to make sure everything's in order and submitted on time. Seek guidance from mentors or US College Application Tutors to work on your application if needed.

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Application Deadlines and Timeline

In the 2024-2025 application cycle, the application deadlines for UCLA's first-year programs are:

• Application opens: August 1
• Application filing period: October 1–December 2
• Admission notification: Late March for most freshman applicants, late April for most transfer applicants
• Financial aid application deadline: March 2
• Enrollment deposit and on-campus housing application deadline: May 1
• Final official transcript deadline: July 1
• Official AP, IB examination results deadline: July 15

Conclusion

Securing a place at UCLA requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Focus on maintaining a high GPA, excelling in advanced coursework like AP and IB, and crafting an application that highlights your unique strengths. Whether you’re navigating the Education System in the US or working around School Holidays in the US, planning ahead is key. With determination and the right guidance, you’ll be on your way to joining the Bruin community!