Applications are now open for the University of California for 2025-2026 intake,
The University of California (UC) is a public research university system with 10 campuses across California, each offering unique academic strengths and cultural environments. Together, the UC campuses form one of the most respected higher education networks in the world, serving hundreds of thousands of students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
Ready to apply? Review the eligibility requirements below and send in your application today!
Benefits of Studying at the University of California
Academic & Career Advantages
- Prestigious Degrees: UC campuses are consistently ranked among the top universities globally.
- Research Opportunities: UC is a global leader in innovation, with billions in research funding and chances for undergraduates to participate.
- Career Pathways: Strong ties to industries like tech, film, biotech, medicine, and sustainability offer direct career opportunities.
Campus Life & Community
- Diversity: UC welcomes students from across the U.S. and more than 100 countries, creating a vibrant multicultural environment.
- Student Engagement: Each campus offers hundreds of clubs, leadership opportunities, and athletic programs.
- Supportive Services: First-generation, transfer, and international students benefit from tailored support programs.
Affordability & Location
- Value for Money: UC provides high-quality public education at a lower cost than many private institutions.
- Financial Aid: Programs like the UC Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan cover tuition for qualifying California residents.
- Prime Locations: From Silicon Valley to Los Angeles and San Diego, campuses are situated near global innovation hubs.
The UC system evaluates applicants holistically, focusing on academic performance, coursework, and personal achievements. Below are the main requirements for first-year and international applicants:
Requirements for studying in UC
For First-Year Applicants
- A–G Subject Requirements
- Complete 15 college-preparatory (A–G) courses with grades of C or higher.
- At least 11 of these courses must be completed before senior year.
- The A–G subjects include:
- History/Social Science (2 years)
- English (4 years)
- Mathematics (3 years, 4 recommended)
- Laboratory Science (2 years, 3 recommended)
- Language other than English (2 years, 3 recommended)
- Visual/Performing Arts (1 year)
- College-Preparatory Elective (1 year)
- History/Social Science (2 years)
- Complete 15 college-preparatory (A–G) courses with grades of C or higher.
- GPA Requirement
- California residents: Minimum 3.0 GPA (weighted, UC-calculated).
- Non-residents: Minimum 3.4 GPA.
- Only UC-approved “A–G” courses are used in the GPA calculation.
- California residents: Minimum 3.0 GPA (weighted, UC-calculated).
- Standardized Testing
- SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission and will not be considered in decisions.
- Test scores may still be used for course placement or meeting certain general education requirements once admitted.
- SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission and will not be considered in decisions.
For International Applicants
- English Language Proficiency
- Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate proficiency with one of the following minimum scores:
- TOEFL iBT: 80
- IELTS Academic: 6.5
- Duolingo English Test (DET): 115
- TOEFL iBT: 80
- Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate proficiency with one of the following minimum scores:
- Academic Preparation
- Equivalent completion of UC’s A–G subject requirements in your home country.
- Strong academic performance in secondary/high school, with grades meeting or exceeding the GPA requirement.
- Equivalent completion of UC’s A–G subject requirements in your home country.
- Submission of Test Scores
- English proficiency test results are submitted through the UC Application portal after applying.
Methods of Application
- Test Online Application
- Complete the UC Application (available on the University of California admissions portal).
- Select which UC campuses to apply to with one form.
- Complete the UC Application (available on the University of California admissions portal).
- Personal Insight Questions
- Answer 4 of 8 essay prompts thoughtfully; these are crucial for demonstrating personality, resilience, and potential.
- Submit Academic Records
- Self-report high school coursework and grades in the application.
- Official transcripts are required after admission is offered.
- Self-report high school coursework and grades in the application.
- Pay Application Fee or Request Waiver
- UC charges per campus, but fee waivers are available for eligible students.
- Check Campus-Specific Requirements
- Some majors (like architecture, music, or arts) may require portfolios, auditions, or extra materials.
- Monitor Application Status
- Use the UC Applicant Portal to track submissions and receive admission decisions.
- Click and apply through the link https://apply.universityofcalifornia.edu/
