The UCLA acceptance rate for 2024–2025, GPA expectations, top majors, and proven strategies to get in. Learn how UCLA compares globally and what it truly takes to stand out.
Why UCLA’s Acceptance Rate Matters
The UCLA acceptance rate sits at the heart of nearly every college dream. For many students, especially international applicants, UCLA represents a rare blend of academic rigor and California cool — a place where research meets creativity under the Los Angeles sun. But the first thing you should know is that UCLA is incredibly competitive. For the Fall 2024 admissions cycle, UCLA received roughly 146,000 freshman applications and admitted just about 13,128 students. That means an acceptance rate of around 9.0% — lower than some Ivy League schools.
This number isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reality check. Every student who dreams of walking under Royce Hall’s arches must realize that each seat is fought for by thousands of equally driven individuals. Over the last decade, UCLA’s selectivity has climbed sharply. In 2012, the acceptance rate hovered near 22%. By 2020, it had fallen to 14%. Now it’s under 10%. This shrinking percentage tells a story of growing global appeal, increased applications, and higher academic expectations.
Why does it matter? Because understanding UCLA’s acceptance rate helps you gauge not only the odds but the strategy behind successful applications. Too many applicants see the percentage and feel discouraged. But those who read between the numbers learn something more valuable: competition simply means UCLA attracts the best — and joining that race puts you among the most ambitious minds on the planet.
There’s also the matter of prestige. UCLA consistently ranks among the top 20 universities globally and the No. 1 public university in the United States (according to U.S. News & World Report). That ranking feeds demand. Every time UCLA rises a few spots, more students apply. And because class sizes stay roughly the same, acceptance rates naturally fall. So when you hear “UCLA’s acceptance rate is only 9%,” what you’re really hearing is that the world wants what UCLA offers — and that demand is fierce.
In the end, UCLA’s acceptance rate is a mirror of its identity: ambitious, global, and academically rich. It’s not meant to discourage you but to push you to prepare smarter, apply earlier, and tell your story better. Those who understand what that 9% really means are already halfway to being part of it.
UCLA Acceptance Rate in 2024
Numbers tell their own story when read carefully. UCLA’s freshman acceptance rate for 2024 was 9%. For transfer students, the number looks much kinder — around 23%, out of 27,000 applications. That’s almost three times higher. Why the difference? UCLA’s commitment to California’s public education system encourages community college transfers, part of the UC system’s mission to widen access.
If we break the 2024 data down further, the picture becomes more revealing. In-state students (from California) have an acceptance rate near 12%, while out-of-state applicants see around 7%. For international students, the figure dips to roughly 5%, making UCLA one of the toughest American universities to enter for non-U.S. citizens. Yet, each year, thousands succeed — proof that preparation and presentation matter more than geography.
To visualize this, imagine 100 students applying from your local high school. Only nine might make it through, and perhaps one or two would come from abroad. But remember, those nine didn’t get lucky — they fit the mold UCLA looks for: consistent excellence, curiosity, leadership, and individuality.
Application numbers themselves reveal another truth. UCLA’s 146,000 applicants make it the most applied-to university in the world. No other institution, not Harvard, not Oxford, not UC Berkeley, attracts as many applications. This volume speaks to UCLA’s cultural magnetism — a world-class education, affordable tuition for residents, and the undeniable draw of Los Angeles, the global capital of entertainment and innovation.
So when you see “9% acceptance rate,” don’t just think scarcity. Think scale. UCLA’s pool isn’t just competitive — it’s massive. Your goal, then, is not to fear the math but to master your narrative, the one that convinces the admissions team that you bring something unique to that vast ocean of applicants.
Why UCLA Is So Competitive
UCLA’s competitiveness isn’t random. It’s rooted in reputation, quality, and opportunity. First, the academic reputation: UCLA consistently ranks among the best research universities in the world. The faculty includes Nobel laureates, Pulitzer winners, and pioneers in everything from neuroscience to cinema. This means students aren’t just learning — they’re collaborating on discoveries that change industries.
Second, UCLA sits in Los Angeles, a city built on dreams and discipline. Few universities offer such a powerful mix of cultural influence and professional exposure. For STEM students, Silicon Beach provides internships at companies like Google, SpaceX, and Snap. For artists and filmmakers, Hollywood is literally down the road. For business majors, UCLA’s Anderson School of Management opens doors worldwide. The location turns ambition into action.
Third, UCLA’s status as a public university keeps it relatively affordable for Californians, driving even higher application rates. In-state tuition remains a fraction of private university costs, yet the quality matches or exceeds many Ivy League schools. This makes UCLA a magnet for high-achieving students who want top-tier education without lifelong debt.
Another factor is cultural diversity. UCLA thrives on inclusion — over 40% of undergraduates are first-generation college students, and its campus feels like a microcosm of the world. That global energy fuels creativity and competition alike. Students don’t just learn from professors; they learn from each other, across backgrounds and perspectives.
Put simply, UCLA’s competitiveness is the price of excellence. It’s not about making entry difficult — it’s about maintaining a standard of learning and discovery that’s second to none. To compete here is to be measured by the highest yardstick possible, and for many, that’s precisely the appeal.
UCLA Acceptance Rate by Major
Here’s a secret many applicants overlook: your intended major can dramatically affect your odds of admission. UCLA doesn’t admit students strictly by GPA or test scores; it admits them by context, and one big piece of context is your chosen field of study.
For example, Computer Science is UCLA’s most selective program, with an estimated acceptance rate of 4.1%. Engineering as a whole averages about 8%, reflecting both high demand and limited lab capacity. On the other hand, majors in the Humanities and Social Sciences often have acceptance rates in the 12–15% range. This doesn’t mean one is “easier” or “less valuable” — it simply means certain fields attract larger, more competitive pools of applicants.
The School of Theater, Film and Television, famous for producing Hollywood’s finest, has a low acceptance rate too — roughly 6% — because of its portfolio requirements. Students must submit creative work, making the process both subjective and highly competitive. Meanwhile, programs in Political Science or Psychology remain popular but more accessible, averaging around 10–12%.
It’s worth noting that UCLA doesn’t admit students into undeclared engineering majors. Choosing a specific path early, and demonstrating evidence of commitment — through projects, internships, or competitions — strengthens your profile. That’s true across all disciplines: showing a record of relevant work can tip the scales.
So, if you’re choosing your major strategically, look at the data, but also at your passion. Admissions officers know when applicants “pick the easy route.” Authenticity stands out more than statistics. In the long run, your story matters as much as the numbers.
GPA, SAT, and Holistic Review
UCLA’s admissions process is famously holistic, meaning no single number determines your fate. Still, understanding averages helps. The typical admitted student in 2024 had a weighted GPA between 4.2 and 4.3, placing them in the top 5% of their graduating class. Because the University of California is test-optional, SAT or ACT scores aren’t required, though strong results can still be self-reported to demonstrate readiness.
But grades and scores are just the skeleton. The real heartbeat of your application lies in the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) — short essays that reveal who you are. Admissions readers aren’t just hunting for perfect students; they’re seeking resilient, curious, and engaged individuals. They value students who’ve overcome challenges, contributed to their communities, or shown creativity in unexpected ways.
Extracurriculars matter, but not in the “join-every-club” sense. UCLA wants depth over breadth. Leading a small initiative or demonstrating sustained effort in one area can speak louder than a list of ten activities. Letters of recommendation aren’t part of UCLA’s application, which means your writing carries extra weight — your essays must glow with authenticity and precision.
Academic rigor is also reviewed in context. A 4.2 GPA at a school with limited AP options may impress more than a 4.4 from a school where APs are abundant. UCLA’s readers are trained to understand environment and equity. They read every application twice, sometimes three times, ensuring fairness.
Ultimately, UCLA’s “holistic review” means your humanity counts. Numbers open the door, but your story walks through it. Applicants who blend academic excellence with clear purpose — and can communicate both — tend to stand out in that crucial 9%.
UCLA Acceptance Rate for International Students
International students face the steepest climb, but thousands make it every year. UCLA’s acceptance rate for international applicants hovers around 5%, compared to 9% overall. Yet this small window shouldn’t discourage you. Instead, think of it as an invitation to prepare strategically.
For one, UCLA evaluates international students by both academic and linguistic standards. You’ll need to prove English proficiency through the TOEFL (minimum 100) or IELTS (minimum 7.5), though high school instruction in English can sometimes waive the requirement. Academic rigor remains key: the university expects international curricula — A-Levels, IB, WAEC, or others — to demonstrate university-level readiness.
Financial documentation is another layer. Since international students aren’t eligible for federal aid, UCLA requires proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs. However, scholarships like the Regents Scholarship and external awards can help lighten the load. Many international students also take part-time campus jobs under their visa conditions.
Beyond numbers, international applicants must tell compelling stories about why UCLA. Admissions readers want to see connection — not just admiration. Mentioning UCLA’s global alumni network, Los Angeles’s multicultural energy, or the university’s leadership in sustainability and innovation can ground your essays in genuine interest.
The reward for perseverance is immense. Studying at UCLA as an international student isn’t just about earning a degree — it’s about stepping into one of the world’s most dynamic ecosystems of research, creativity, and global exchange.
UCLA Transfer Acceptance Rate: Transfer Students
If the freshman route feels too steep, there’s another highly successful path: transferring. UCLA maintains a long tradition of welcoming community college students, especially from California. The transfer acceptance rate stands around 23%, nearly triple the freshman rate.
UCLA prioritizes applicants from the California Community Colleges (CCC) system through agreements known as Transfer Admission Guarantees (TAGs). While UCLA doesn’t offer a formal TAG, completing an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) or fulfilling the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) can significantly strengthen your profile.
Transfer students bring a unique advantage: they already know what college demands. UCLA values maturity, persistence, and evidence of academic growth. The average admitted transfer student carries a GPA of about 3.8, with strong coursework in the chosen major.
For international or out-of-state transfers, the path is more nuanced but still viable. UCLA accepts credits from recognized universities abroad, provided the courses align with its curriculum. Admissions officers carefully evaluate transcripts to ensure quality and equivalence.
In short, transferring to UCLA isn’t a consolation prize; it’s a respected and strategic route. Many of UCLA’s most successful graduates — from entrepreneurs to scientists — began their journey in community colleges before earning that coveted Bruin blue diploma.
How to Improve Your Chances
Getting into UCLA takes more than perfect grades. It takes clarity, consistency, and creativity. Start early — ideally by your sophomore year of high school — and build a portfolio that tells a coherent story about who you are and what drives you.
First, strengthen your academics. Take the hardest classes you can handle, but don’t chase perfection at the cost of curiosity. UCLA’s admissions team values intellectual risk-taking — students who stretch beyond their comfort zones.
Second, choose extracurriculars that matter. Whether you start a coding club, volunteer at a clinic, or create art that reflects your culture, depth counts more than variety. UCLA’s reviewers want to see sustained engagement — years of commitment rather than scattered activities.
Third, write essays that pulse with authenticity. The PIQs are your stage. Avoid clichés about “wanting to change the world.” Instead, describe specific moments that changed you. Show your character in action — how you handled failure, led with humility, or found wonder in a small discovery.
Lastly, apply early, stay flexible, and keep backups. Many strong students who didn’t get into UCLA thrive at other UCs like UC San Diego, UC Davis, or UC Irvine — all world-class in their own right. UCLA’s competitiveness doesn’t define your potential; it reveals the power of persistence and perspective.
Historical Trends: Is UCLA Getting Harder to Get Into?
The trend line speaks for itself. In 2010, UCLA’s acceptance rate hovered around 22%. By 2015, it had dipped below 18%. In 2020, it hit 14%, and now, in 2024, it’s just 9%. That’s a decade-long drop of nearly 60%.
Several forces drive this decline. California’s population growth, the UC system’s global reach, and the test-optional movement have all expanded applicant pools. Without standardized tests as filters, more students with strong GPAs feel empowered to apply — boosting numbers but not spaces.
At the same time, UCLA hasn’t expanded undergraduate capacity proportionally. Infrastructure and faculty limits keep enrollment stable, even as applications soar. The result is a steady tightening of competition.
There’s also the rise of international visibility. UCLA’s success in film, technology, and athletics has amplified its brand worldwide. From Shanghai to São Paulo, students now see UCLA as the “public Ivy” of the Pacific Coast. That global allure keeps demand climbing.
So yes, UCLA is getting harder to get into — but that also means its prestige keeps rising. Every admitted student joins a legacy of excellence built through effort, curiosity, and ambition.
What the UCLA Acceptance Rate Really Means
When you strip away the numbers, the UCLA acceptance rate tells a story of aspiration. It reflects the hunger of students worldwide who see in UCLA not just a university, but a launching pad. Nine percent isn’t just a statistic — it’s a reminder that success demands precision, preparation, and patience.
For some, the rate will feel intimidating. For others, it’s a challenge. The difference lies in perspective. Those who see competition as proof of value are the ones who persist, adapt, and eventually thrive.
Remember: the acceptance rate is about the university, not about your worth. Your potential can’t be captured in a percentage. But by studying the trends, understanding the expectations, and crafting a story that feels undeniably yours, you can turn that 9% into your future.
In the end, getting into UCLA isn’t about luck — it’s about alignment. When your goals, actions, and passion line up with what the university stands for, that small window of opportunity becomes wide enough for your dreams to walk through.
So whether you’re in Lagos, London, or Los Angeles, keep preparing, keep learning, and keep applying. The numbers may look small — but the doors they open are immeasurable.
Also Check:
UCLA Acceptance Rate by Major — Where It’s Hardest and Easiest to Get In
UCLA Acceptance Rate for 2026 — Your Guide to Getting In
Is UCLA Getting Harder to Get Into? UCLA Admissions by 2026 and Beyond
