Chances of Getting Into University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California • Public University • #17 National • Founded 1919
UCLA Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
UCLA Testing Policy
Test-Blind Admissions
University of California, Los Angeles is test-blind — SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process, even if submitted. Your GPA, course rigor, essays, and extracurricular activities carry the most weight in admissions decisions.
About University of California, Los Angeles
UCLA is the most applied-to university in the nation, attracting over 145,000 applications annually. Located in Westwood, just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, UCLA offers world-class academics, a top-ranked film school, powerhouse athletics, and the energy of Los Angeles — all at an extraordinary value as a public university.
Top Programs
What Makes UCLA Unique
- Most applied-to university in the United States — over 145,000 applications per year
- Home to the #1 ranked public film school (UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television)
- Test-blind admissions — SAT/ACT scores are not considered at all, even if submitted
- Located in Westwood, Los Angeles — unmatched access to entertainment, tech, and culture
- 119 NCAA championships — the most of any university in the country
UCLA Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
UCLA Application Deadlines
How to Get Into UCLA: Admission Tips
UCLA is test-blind — GPA and course rigor carry enormous weight (56% of enrolled students had a 4.0)
The UC application uses Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) — choose the 4 that best showcase your story
In-state applicants have a slightly higher acceptance rate than out-of-state (~9.6% vs ~11.2%)
No Early Decision or Early Action — everyone applies by the same December 1 deadline
Show leadership, community impact, and personal challenges overcome in your PIQs
The Brutal Truth About UCLA Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 9.4% acceptance rate, UCLA rejected over 131,423 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At UCLA, having a 3.97 GPA and 0 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. UCLA doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if UCLA genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 9.4%-acceptance-rate basket.
UCLA Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Los Angeles?
University of California, Los Angeles has an acceptance rate of 9.4% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 145,058 applicants, approximately 6,500 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into UCLA?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of California, Los Angeles is 3.97. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.82, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
Does UCLA require SAT or ACT scores?
University of California, Los Angeles is test-blind — SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process, even if submitted. Admissions decisions are based on GPA, course rigor, essays, and extracurricular activities.
Is UCLA hard to get into?
Yes, University of California, Los Angeles is highly selective with an acceptance rate of just 9.4%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does UCLA cost?
Tuition at University of California, Los Angeles is $13,602 per year, with total cost of attendance at $36,297. However, 58% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $21,000+.
What are my chances of getting into UCLA?
Your chances of getting into University of California, Los Angeles depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 9.4% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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