UCLA University Acceptance Rate: Trends, Insights, and What It Means for Future Applicants

The journey to acceptance at UCLA resembles a high-stakes game of chance, where the odds are increasingly stacked against hopeful applicants. With a mere 9% acceptance rate for incoming freshmen and only 6% for the School of Engineering, this prestigious university has transformed into an academic fortress demanding not only exceptional grades but also unwavering determination. As the acceptance rates dwindle, prospective students find themselves navigating a labyrinth of challenges and intricacies within the admissions process, where each decision echoes the broader trends in university acceptance rates nationally. This article delves into the implications of these statistics, exposing the shifting landscape of higher education and offering insights that illuminate the paths aspiring Bruins can tread. Get ready to explore a world where hard work, creativity, and a touch of luck could make all the difference in finally getting that coveted acceptance letter.

UCLA Acceptance Rate Insights

• UCLA undergraduate acceptance rate for Fall 2022 was around 14.3%.
• UCLA’s acceptance rate has been steadily decreasing over the past few years.
• The UCLA acceptance rate for incoming freshmen is 9% as published on the UCLA admissions website.
• The UCLA School of Engineering only accepts 6% of students, making it harder for students in this discipline to get into UCLA.
• The College of Letters and Science has a 10% UCLA acceptance rate, making it easier for students in this discipline to get into UCLA.
• The University of California Los Angeles acceptance rate is calculated by dividing the number of accepted students by the total number of applicants and then multiplying that result by 100.
• The 9% UCLA acceptance rate compares to that of Dartmouth and UPenn, two Ivy League schools.
• UCLA has the lowest acceptance rate ever, at a staggering 8.6% for the class of 2027.
• UCLA has a yield of 50.31%, indicating that admitted students are highly likely to attend the university.
• UCLA School of Nursing had the lowest acceptance rate of just 0.83%.
• The UCLA Samueli School of Engineering had the second-lowest acceptance rate of 5.51%.
• UCLA’s overall admission rate has plummeted over the last quarter of a century from 28.96% to 8.57%.
• UCLA’s acceptance rate has dropped from 26.9% in the Class of 2004 to 8.57% in the Class of 2026.
• The overall admission rate for UCLA has decreased year-over-year since the Class of 2004, with a couple of bumps in the road.
• UCLA’s acceptance rate is 8.6%, a reflection of its high volume of applicants.
• UCLA acceptance rates rose by 12 and 7 percent compared to last year, with a slight increase in overall admission rate from 24 to 25 percent.
• UCLA’s admitted first-year class for fall 2024 has an acceptance rate of approximately 14%.
• UCLA’s admitted first-year class for fall 2024 had an average ACT composite score of around 28, with a middle 50% range of 26 to 30.
• UCLA’s admission data was released by The University of California Admissions for Fall 2023.

Our Interpretation

The UCLA acceptance rate has been on a steady decline over the past few years, reflecting the university’s increasing popularity and competitiveness. With an overall acceptance rate of 14.3% for Fall 2022, it’s clear that admission to UCLA is highly sought after. However, what’s striking is the significant variation in acceptance rates across different schools within the university, with the School of Engineering being the most competitive at just 6%, while the College of Letters and Science has a relatively more accessible rate of 10%. This disparity highlights the varying levels of competition for admission to specific programs, making it essential for prospective students to carefully consider their academic interests and goals when applying.

Trends in University Acceptance Rates and Admission Statistics

• The university’s acceptance rate varies by major, with some programs being more competitive than others.
• The university’s admission statistics and requirements are subject to change each year.
• International students typically experience lower college acceptance rates than domestic applicants.
• Students may submit test scores for course placement purposes.
• The university’s acceptance rate continues to drop each year due to increasing applications, making it even more competitive.
• The scattergram shows that accepted students have high GPAs and test scores, while rejected students have lower GPAs and test scores.
• The acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 was 8.73%, and it dropped year-over-year all but six times since the Class of 2004.
• The university receives more applications than any other in the country, making it highly competitive.
• Out of state applicants continue to enjoy an admission rate advantage over residents, with the gap narrowing but still present.
• Not all campuses have reached their non-resident enrollment limits, and the mix of out-of-state and international admittances continues to rise at selected campuses.
• The acceptance rate is at 8.8%, continuing the trend of a gradually declining acceptance rate.
• This latest acceptance rate marks a slight increase from last year’s impressive 8.5% acceptance rate.
• The university’s popularity has soared, leading to an increase in applications and, in turn, a heightened level of competition.
• Past year’s acceptance rate of 9% – a significant dip from previous years.
• Prospective students should carefully consider whether submitting their test scores would enhance their application before deciding whether to do so.

Our Interpretation

The university’s acceptance rate has been on a steady decline, with the Class of 2027 experiencing an acceptance rate of 8.73%, indicating a highly competitive environment that continues to intensify due to increasing applications and a widening gap between out-of-state and resident admission rates. This trend suggests that students will need to demonstrate exceptional academic credentials, such as high GPAs and test scores, in order to stand out amidst the growing competition for limited spots.

Insights on UCLA Admissions Process

• Admission to UCLA is holistic, considering factors beyond just grades and test scores.
• College acceptance rates vary based on where you live and where you submit your UCLA application.
• There is no single formula for how to get into UCLA—the UCLA acceptance rate is just one factor in the overall UCLA admissions process.
• A 9% UCLA acceptance rate does not mean that every applicant has a 9% chance of acceptance.
• The UCLA admissions team considers many factors when looking at a given student, including GPA requirements and extracurricular involvement.
• There are no UCLA SAT requirements, as the UC system does not consider SAT scores when reviewing your UCLA application.
• To increase chances of UCLA enrollment, students can exceed the average GPA for UCLA, write strong responses to the Personal Insight Questions, and show character through extracurricular activities.
• UCLA has one of the lowest college acceptance rates of any public university in the country, making it very difficult to get into, especially for non-California residents.
• UCLA’s low acceptance rate makes it a competitive college despite not being the most selective.
• The increase in UCLA applications led to a drop in admission rates due to limited enrollment capacity.
• Meeting the minimum 3.0 GPA requirement is not enough for students to get into UCLA, as most admitted students have a weighted GPA of 4.4.
• Out-of-state students face higher UCLA GPA requirements (3.4) and tend to report higher test scores compared to in-state applicants.
• There’s a gradual shift in UCLA admissions policy toward admitting more California residents, leading to rising in-state college acceptance rates and falling out-of-state rates.
• UCLA’s acceptance rate is similar to UC Berkeley’s, with both schools having highly competitive admission processes.
• To get into UCLA, applicants must have a strong application across the board, including essays, extracurricular activities, GPA, and course rigor.
• UCLA does not offer early action or early decision programs, with all applicants considered in the regular decision round.
• The University of California system calculates UC GPA differently than high school GPA, using inputted courses and grades.
• A vast majority of admitted UCLA students have a high GPA, with essays being the second most important part of the application.
• UCLA’s first-year applications have increased year-over-year, except for four times over the last 24 years.
• UCLA remained the most selective campus, with Berkeley at #2, Irvine at #3, San Diego at #4, Santa Barbara at #5, and Davis, Santa Cruz, Riverside, and Merced at spots 6-9.
• UCLA takes a unique approach to its admissions process by not offering an early decision or early action option.
• UCLA adopts a test-optional policy, but test scores can be used to fulfill minimum criteria for course placement after you enroll.

Our Interpretation

The UCLA admissions process is a complex and highly competitive landscape that defies a simple formula for success. While a stellar GPA and strong test scores are certainly important, they are only part of the equation, as the university takes a holistic approach to evaluating applicants. The fact that admission rates vary based on where you live and submit your application adds another layer of complexity, highlighting the need for students to have a strong application across the board, including essays, extracurricular activities, GPA, and course rigor. Furthermore, the shift towards admitting more California residents has led to rising in-state acceptance rates and falling out-of-state rates, making it even more challenging for non-residents to get into UCLA. Despite these challenges, students who exceed the average GPA, write strong responses to the Personal Insight Questions, and show character through extracurricular activities can increase their chances of enrollment. Ultimately, getting into UCLA requires a combination of academic excellence, personal growth, and a deep understanding of the university’s unique admissions process.

UCLA Admissions Insights: Trends and Milestones

• UCLA received a record-breaking 170,047 applications for Fall 2023 admission, showcasing its unparalleled popularity among prospective students.
• A staggering 24,137 transfer students applied to join UCLA as juniors, further solidifying the institution’s reputation for academic excellence and diversity.
• UCLA received over 113,000 applications for the Class of 2026.
• UCLA received over 104,000 applications for fall 2024 admission, making it one of the most competitive universities in the country.
• UCLA admitted 45,569 freshmen out of 106,414 applicants in fall 2019, yielding an acceptance rate of 42.8%
• UCLA received applications from all 50 states and over 80 countries, with international students making up 12.3% of the freshman class
• The top five feeder high schools for UCLA in fall 2019 were all from California, including a school from Los Angeles with 104 admitted students
• UCLA’s admitted freshmen came from 3,144 different high schools across the United States and abroad
• UCLA received a staggering 145,904 applications for the incoming class of 2027.
• 20+ UC Berkeley offers

Our Interpretation

The UCLA admissions landscape is witnessing an unprecedented surge in popularity, with a record-breaking 170,047 students vying for a spot in the Fall 2023 class. This monumental figure not only underscores the institution’s academic excellence but also its reputation as a melting pot of diversity. The influx of transfer students, numbering 24,137, further solidifies UCLA’s position as a hub for academic and cultural exchange. As the university continues to attract top talent from all 50 states and over 80 countries, its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility shines through in its acceptance rate of 42.8% for the Class of 2026. The staggering number of applications, now exceeding 145,904 for the incoming class of 2027, is a testament to UCLA’s enduring appeal as one of the world’s premier institutions of higher learning.

Trends in Freshman Admission Rates and Acceptances

• Systemwide freshman admission rates increased year-over-year from 60 to 63 percent.
• Average admission rate for California residents rose from 64 to 67 percent.
• Out-of-state and international admit rates rose from 48 to 53 percent and 56 to 60 percent respectively.
• Application volume declined slightly systemwide, but increased for Irvine, Riverside, and Santa Cruz.
• Total acceptances increased by 3.3 percent year-over-year, with resident acceptances rising 3.5 percent and out-of-state acceptances rising 3.9 percent.
• International acceptances increased by 1 percent despite overall decline in non-resident acceptances.
• Berkeley’s overall admission rate remained steady at roughly 12 percent.
• Davis’ overall admission rate increased to 38-42 percent year-over-year due to an 11 percent increase in acceptances.
• Irvine’s overall admission rate increased from 21 to 26 percent year-over-year, driven by a 2 percent increase in applications and a notable 25 percent increase in acceptances.
• Los Angeles’ overall admission rate remained steady at around 9 percent.
• Merced’s overall admission rate remained high at 93 percent, with interest from international students growing.
• Riverside’s overall admission rate rose slightly from 69 to 71 percent as applications grew 4 percent and acceptances grew 8 percent.
• The resident and international admit rates rose from 24 to 25 percent and from 16 to 18 percent respectively, while the out-of-state rate held steady at 32 percent.
• Santa Barbara saw an overall admission rate rise slightly from 26 to 28 percent year-over-year, driven by an 8 percent increase in admitted students.
• The acceptance rate for out-of-state applicants grew most strongly, rising from 29 to 33 percent due to a 13 percent increase in acceptances at Santa Barbara.
• Santa Cruz experienced a dramatic rise in overall admission rate from 47 to 63 percent year-over-year, fueled by a 5 percent increase in applicants and a 39 percent increase in acceptances.
• The admission rate for residents rose from 43 percent to 60 percent, while admit rates for out-of-state and international applicants rose from 71 to 81 percent and 55 to 61 percent respectively at Santa Cruz.
• Admission rate advantages are most prominent at Davis, Irvine, and Santa Cruz, with decided admission rate advantages persisting for out-of-state applicants at each of these campuses and for international students at Davis and Irvine.

Our Interpretation

The trends in freshman admission rates and acceptances reveal a nuanced landscape across the system. While overall admit rates have increased systemwide, with notable gains among California residents, out-of-state, and international applicants, application volume has declined slightly. However, certain campuses like Irvine, Riverside, and Santa Cruz have bucked this trend, experiencing growth in both applications and acceptances. Notably, Davis’ overall admission rate has surged to 38-42 percent year-over-year due to an 11 percent increase in acceptances, while Santa Cruz has seen a dramatic rise from 47 to 63 percent year-over-year, driven by a 39 percent increase in acceptances. These shifts suggest that certain campuses are becoming more competitive and desirable, particularly for out-of-state and international students, who have seen significant gains in admission rates at Davis, Irvine, and Santa Cruz.

Key Insights on UCLA’s Academic Environment and Opportunities

• UCLA is a highly competitive institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence.
• The university places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the admission process.
• UCLA offers a range of programs and resources to support students from underrepresented backgrounds.
• UCLA has a strong track record of placing graduates in top-tier jobs and graduate programs.
• The university is committed to fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among its students.
• UCLA offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students from all backgrounds.
• UCLA’s selectivity is neck and neck with top public universities like UC Berkeley, University of Michigan, and UNC Chapel Hill.
• The university’s strong film program, undergraduate STEM programs, and athletic programs make it a popular choice for students.
• UCLA accepts a diverse class of freshman students each year, with a focus on contributing to campus diversity.
• UCLA’s strong academic programs and film school make it a top choice for many students, particularly those interested in the arts and entertainment industry.
• The university’s close proximity to Hollywood and its relationships with the industry make it an attractive option for students seeking internships or career opportunities.
• The search for improved diversity and full pay applicants continues to create opportunity for non-residents interested in a UC education.
• UCLA is a vibrant academic powerhouse nestled within the heart of the sprawling City of Angels.
• The university provides an environment that fosters both academic growth and personal development.
• With a wide array of programs spanning arts, sciences, engineering, and more, UCLA offers students a rich tapestry of learning opportunities and a chance to collaborate with esteemed faculty at the forefront of their fields.

Our Interpretation

The findings suggest that UCLA is a highly competitive institution that prioritizes academic excellence, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The university’s strong programs and resources for underrepresented students, combined with its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, create a unique environment that prepares graduates for top-tier jobs and graduate programs. With a diverse range of academic offerings, including a renowned film program and undergraduate STEM programs, UCLA is an attractive option for students seeking a world-class education. The university’s close proximity to Hollywood and its relationships with the industry also make it an ideal choice for students interested in internships or career opportunities in the arts and entertainment industry. Overall, UCLA’s academic environment and opportunities provide a rich tapestry of learning experiences that foster both academic growth and personal development.

University Admissions Insights

• The university’s freshman application pool reached an impressive 145,910 submissions, with many more students vying for spots in other academic programs.
• The university accepted approximately 15,800 students out of the 113,000 applicants.
• The university received a record 149,815 applications from the Class of 2027, making it the most applied-to college in the world.
• The Class of 2027 has a plurality of Asian students, followed by White students, and then Hispanic/Latino students.
• The number of admitted students has not yet been made public for the Class of 2028, making it impossible to calculate the overall admission rate.
• Applications stood at around 146,250 for the Class of 2028, but the number of admitted students is still unknown.
• Crimson’s Class of 2027 Regular Round Decision Results show that over 600 Crimson students have been admitted to the Ivy League.
• More than 95+ Crimson Ivy League offers, including 66 offers to the most competitive Ivies — Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Columbia and UPenn.
• 65+ offers to US Top 10 universities, including Stanford, MIT, UChicago, Duke, Northwestern, Johns Hopkins and Caltech.

Our Interpretation

The university’s admissions landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with record-breaking application numbers and a diversifying student body. The Class of 2027’s staggering 149,815 submissions not only solidified Crimson’s position as the most applied-to college globally but also revealed a telling demographic trend: Asian students now comprise the largest plurality, followed closely by their White counterparts. This shift reflects broader societal shifts and underscores the growing diversity of academic aspirations.

As the university navigates this new reality, it must also contend with the complexities of admission rates, which remain opaque for the Class of 2028. The uncertainty surrounding the number of admitted students for this cohort serves as a poignant reminder that the admissions process is inherently unpredictable and influenced by a multitude of factors.

Notwithstanding these challenges, Crimson’s Ivy League offers – over 600 students have been accepted to the prestigious institutions – demonstrate the university’s continued commitment to fostering academic excellence. The impressive tally of US Top 10 university offers (65+) further underscores Crimson’s stature as a premier educational institution.

Admission Insights and Statistics

• The middle 50% of admitted students had a GPA of 4.13 or higher.
• The middle 50% of admitted students had SAT scores ranging from 1240 to 1480.
• The School of Music has a college acceptance rate of around 20%, while the School of the Arts and Architecture is 5%.
• College of Letters and Science had the highest acceptance rate besides the Herb Alpert School of Music.
• About 83% of the admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school graduating class.
• The average GPA of the admitted students was around 4.13, with a middle 50% range of 3.98 to 4.23.
• The admitted first-year class has a diverse student body, with about 44% identifying as female and 56% as male.
• Over 40% of the admitted students were from underrepresented groups, including African American, Latino, and Native American students.
• The most popular majors among the admitted students were engineering, business economics, and biological sciences.
• The middle 50% of admitted freshmen scored between 1270 and 1480 on the SAT or between 28 and 33 on the ACT
• The average GPA of admitted freshmen was 4.13, with 94% graduating in the top quarter of their high school class
• Females made up 52.6% of the admitted freshmen, while males comprised 47.4%
• The average SAT score of admitted freshmen was 1365, with an average ACT composite score of 31.1

Our Interpretation

The admission statistics reveal a highly competitive and selective process, where the middle 50% of admitted students boasted exceptional academic credentials, with a GPA of 4.13 or higher and SAT scores ranging from 1240 to 1480. The diverse student body, comprising over 40% underrepresented groups, reflects the institution’s commitment to inclusivity. Notably, the most popular majors among admitted students were engineering, business economics, and biological sciences, indicating a strong demand for these fields.

References

• ucla.edu
• yocket.com
• shiksha.com