If you’re eyeing a transfer to UCLA, here’s the truth right away: for fall 2024 the transfer acceptance rate was approximately 23 %—that is, out of 27,177 transfer applicants, 6,177 were admitted. Undergraduate Admission+2UCLA Transfer Student Center+2 That rate held at roughly the same level for fall 2025 with 28,288 applicants and about 6,466 admits.
Yes, 23 % is significantly higher than the freshman acceptance rate (which hovers around 9 % for fall 2024) at UCLA. ASUCLA+1 But make no mistake: higher does not mean easy. Competition remains fierce.
If you’re preparing your transfer application, you’ll need to understand how these numbers break down—and how you can shape your profile accordingly. This article walks you through what those percentages actually mean, how major and source school make a big difference, what GPA and other factors successful transfer applicants have, and, most importantly, how you can improve your odds.
Check Out: UCLA Transfer Student Center
UCLA Transfer Acceptance Rate 2024–25
At first glance, the 23 % transfer acceptance rate might feel promising. Roughly 1 in 4 transfer applicants to UCLA are admitted. That’s markedly better than the freshman rate. But numbers can hide nuance. When you look into the details of the admissions profile, you’ll see that this 23 % is a campus-wide average, not a guarantee for any major, any background, or any prior school.
For instance, in fall 2024 UCLA reported 27,177 transfer applicants and accepted 6,177, yielding the 23 % figure. Undergraduate Admission That is the starting line. But you should also ask: how many of those actually enrolled? The enrollment number was 3,832 for admitted transfers. Undergraduate Admission So while admission is one hurdle, you also must accept that not everyone admitted attends—they may choose other offers, decide not to enroll, or defer.
Compared to freshmen, the transfer path offers relatively higher odds—but the nature of that path is different. Transfers are typically already enrolled in another institution (often a community college in California), have completed lower-division work, and are seeking to enter junior year. That means UCLA expects a certain level of preparation. In effect: the pool looks different, and so do the criteria.
What does this mean for you? If you’re planning to transfer, you should treat it as competitive. The 23 % is better than 9 %, but still means nearly 3 out of 4 applicants are not admitted. Tools like major-specific admit rates, source-school breakdowns, and GPA ranges will help you as you strategize and don’t rely on the headline figure alone.
In short: the 23 % rate is a useful benchmark—but it should prompt you to ask deeper questions. Where are you coming from (community college, another UC, out-of-state)? What major are you applying for (impacted or non-impacted)? What’s your GPA? What prerequisite coursework have you completed? These sub-factors matter a lot.
Why the Transfer Rate is at This Level
Large volumes of applicants drive the headline rate. With 27,177 transfer applications for fall 2024, even admitting 6,177 students means the percentage stays in the low twenties. Undergraduate Admission+1 When you’re dealing with tens of thousands of applicants each year, small variances in admits or applications shift the rate noticeably.
Selectivity varies by major. UCLA’s data show that some schools (or majors) within UCLA are far more competitive for transfers than others. For fall 2024 the Samueli School of Engineering admitted only 456 out of 4,524 transfer applicants—an admit rate around 10 %. Undergraduate Admission On the other hand, less impacted majors in the College of Letters & Science had higher rates—around 28 % for 5,545 admits out of 19,959 applicants. Undergraduate Admission
A third factor: source-school priority. UCLA gives substantial preference to applicants from California Community Colleges (CCCs). For fall 2024, 79 % of transfer applicants came from CCCs (21,519 applicants) and 92 % of admitted transfers (5,685 admits) came from that pool—yielding about a 26 % admit rate for CCC applicants. Undergraduate Admission Transfers from other UC campuses fared worse: out of 2,079 applicants from other UCs, only 293 were admitted (~14 % admit rate). Undergraduate Admission
Resource and space constraints act as hidden gatekeepers. UCLA cannot expand infinitely to accommodate every strong transfer applicant. Housing, advising capacity, upper-division course seats, and lab facilities all impose limits. As a result, even with priority for CCCs, competition remains high.
In short, the 23 % rate reflects a mix of large volume, major-level selectivity, institutional preferences (source school), and capacity constraints. Appreciating this complexity helps you to see your target not as a single number, but as a moving set of probabilities shaped by your own profile.
Major & Source-School Variations
When you dig into UCLA’s transfer data you’ll see major-specific and origin-school-specific admit rates vary dramatically. That means your actual chance depends heavily on what you studied and where you’re coming from.
Example: For fall 2024, the College division (arts & sciences) had 19,959 applicants and admitted 5,545 for a ~28 % admit rate. Meanwhile, the School of the Arts & Architecture had 1,081 applicants, 89 admits (~8.2 %). The School of Nursing had 307 applicants, 21 admits (~6.8 %). Undergraduate Admission In highly impacted fields (e.g., Engineering, Nursing), your odds are far lower than the campus average.
Another lens: source-school. Out of CCC applicants, 21,519 applied and 5,685 admitted (~26 %). For other UCs: 2,079 applied, 293 admitted (~14 %). For California State Universities: 684 applied, 41 admitted (~6 %). For “other schools”: 2,895 applied, 158 admitted (~5.5 %). Undergraduate Admission So if you’re transferring from a CCC you have a statistically stronger position than if you’re coming from a UC or non-CCC institution.
Why does this matter to you? It means you must track your major’s competitiveness and your status as a CCC or other. If you choose a less impacted major and you’re at a CCC that aligns with transfer-agreements (e.g., TAP certification), your odds improve noticeably. Conversely, if you apply to a high-demand major from a non-CCC source, you’re aiming at a significantly tougher target.
Thus, don’t just internalize “23 % chance” and move on. Instead, dig into: “What was the admit rate for my major?” “What was the source-school admit rate for my kind of institution?” Use these as you shape your plan. In doing so you’ll treat your transfer strategy not as guesswork, but as informed preparation.
What Profiles Do Successful Transfer Applicants Have?
Because transferring to UCLA is competitive, you’ll want to match or exceed the profile of previous successful applicants. Key metrics from fall 2024 include a median GPA of 3.90 for admitted transfer students (25th-75th percentile: 3.77–4.00). Undergraduate Admission That signals very strong academic achievement.
In addition to GPA, coursework matters. UCLA expects that transfer applicants have completed appropriate lower-division prerequisites—including General Education and major-specific prerequisite courses—and are ready for upper-division work. The university’s Transfer Admission Guide emphasizes the importance of “impacted” majors and prerequisite completion. Undergraduate Admission
Also noteworthy: demographics show that 41% of domestic transfers are first-generation college students, and 35% come from underrepresented backgrounds. Undergraduate Admission This means that the campus values not only strong academics but also diverse backgrounds and pathways.
Another example: Average age for transfers is around 22 years old (since these students arrive after completing lower-division work elsewhere). ugeducation.ucla.edu That means you’re coming in with some maturity, and UCLA expects you ready to hit the ground running. International students also make up a portion of the transfer class (though data is less explicit in transfer profile publications).
So how can you use this? Focus on achieving a high GPA (preferably around 3.8–4.0). Make sure you complete the appropriate prerequisite courses for your major. Craft a narrative: Why are you transferring? What have you accomplished so far? What will you bring to UCLA? And make sure your institution of origin aligns well with UCLA’s preferred pathways (especially if you’re coming from a California community college).
Strategic Tips to Maximize Your Transfer Chances at UCLA
Tip 1: Choose and excel at a California Community College (CCC) if you’re eligible. Given UCLA’s priority for CCC applicants—79 % of applicants and 92 % of admitted transfers came from CCCs in fall 2024—this route often presents the strongest statistical odds. Undergraduate Admission+1 If you’re already enrolled at a CCC, ensure you are making strong academic progress and preparing for UCLA’s transfer expectations.
Tip 2: Select your major carefully and know its competitive level. Majors like Engineering, Nursing, Theater/Film & TV can have admit rates well below the campus average (for example, engineering at ~10 % in fall 2024; theater/film & TV at ~2.6 %). Undergraduate Admission If you are flexible and can choose a less impacted major (that still fits your goals), your odds improve.
Tip 3: Build a compelling transfer narrative. The admissions committee doesn’t just look at numbers. They want to see reasons why you’re transferring, how you’ve grown at your current institution, and how you’ll contribute at UCLA. Use your essays, your resume of activities or research, and your academic choices to tell a coherent story.
Tip 4: Meet all prerequisites and stay on schedule. Make sure you complete general education (IGETC or equivalent) and major-related lower-division courses. Use tuition wisely, plan early, and avoid summer school as an afterthought. Being on track shows readiness for upper-division coursework and signals you’re coming in with momentum.
Tip 5: Be realistic and have backups. Even with “only” 23 % admit rate, nearly 77 % of applicants are not admitted. Know that your major may make it harder, your source school may affect your odds, and your GPA may need to be near the top. As you plan, also consider alternative transfer schools or multiple applications to different institutions so you’re not wholly reliant on one outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions & Myths Debunked
Does being from a CCC guarantee admission?
No. Being from a CCC improves your statistical odds because of priority, but you still must meet high standards (strong GPA, prerequisites, major fit). As the data show, ~26 % of CCC applicants were admitted for fall 2024—but that still means nearly three out of four CCC applicants were not admitted. Undergraduate Admission
Can I apply with a GPA below 3.8 and still get admitted?
Yes, but you must recognize that median admitted GPA was 3.90 for fall 2024. Undergraduate Admission If you’re below that, you need other strengths (e.g., major-specific preparation, meaningful extracurriculars, research, strong narrative) to stand out.
If I pick a less popular major will I have better odds?
Generally yes. Majors with fewer applicants and lower demand show higher admit rates. The key is: the major still needs to align with your interests and your completed coursework. Don’t choose solely for easier admission if you’re not genuinely interested—you’ll struggle later.
Are international transfers considered differently?
The public data mainly focus on domestic applicants, and while international transfers may apply, their odds are typically influenced by the same factors: source institution, GPA, prerequisites, major demand, and ability to succeed at UCLA. If you’re international, ensure you meet all visa, residency and academic requirements—those may add additional layers to your preparation.
What to Do from This Point Forward—A Timeline Approach
12–18 Months Before Transfer: If you’re at (or selecting) a CCC, plan your coursework early. Map lower-division general education and major prerequisites. Meet with transfer advisors, apply to TAP (Transfer Admission Guarantee) if your CCC offers it and it’s applicable. Start building extracurriculars or research relevant to your field.
9–12 Months Before Transfer: Maintain and improve GPA (aim toward 3.8–4.0). Complete most prerequisites and general education. Begin crafting your personal statement/transfer essay—why are you transferring? What have you achieved and what will you contribute at UCLA?
6–9 Months Before Transfer: Confirm your major’s prerequisites and the impacted level (check UCLA’s transfer profile for your major). Reach out to faculty, visit UCLA if possible, attend transfer-open days. Refine your narrative. Prepare transcripts, letters of recommendation (if needed), and ensure no missing courses.
Application Period: Submit the UC transfer application by its deadline (usually in fall). Ensure you clearly list your major, provide a compelling personal statement, and show you’re ready for junior-level work. Highlight how your CCC or prior institution prepared you and what you will bring to UCLA’s community.
After Submission: Prepare for alternative outcomes. While you wait, research backup institutions or majors, continue to excel at your current institution, and stay engaged academically and extracurricularly. If admitted, plan your transition: housing, orientation, summer programs, bridging any gaps in preparation. If wait-listed or denied, you still have options and can revisit your plan for next year.
Case Study Example: “Jane” Transferring from CCC to UCLA
Imagine “Jane,” a California community college student who started wanting to major in Sociology. She maintained a GPA of 3.88 after completing general education and lower-division major courses. She is a first-generation college student and active in a CC Honors Program.
Jane selects Sociology partly because it is less impacted (compared to Engineering) and she has genuine interest in research on social behavior. She completes courses like Intro-Sociology, Statistics, and 300-level Sociology research methods—aligned with UCLA’s major prerequisites.
She applies through her CCC with TAP certification and writes her transfer essay explaining how her community college experiences—working in a social services internship—motivated her to continue at UCLA and contribute to research in sociology. She emphasizes how she will bring a unique first-gen perspective and her honors work as preparation.
Since Jane is applying to a CCC → UCLA path, her statistical odds fall within the stronger pool (~26 % admit rate for CCC transfers in fall 2024). She has a GPA near the median admitted (3.90) and major choice that is less impacted, which improves her chances compared to some peers.
While no guarantee, Jane’s profile is aligned with what UCLA expects and what the data illustrate for successful transfer applicants. For your own case, mirror this planning: strong academic preparation, major-fit, institutional alignment, and coherent narrative.
What Happens After Admission: Transitioning Successfully
If you’re admitted as a transfer, you join UCLA already at a junior-level standing. Many transfer students complete their bachelor’s in about 6.1 academic quarters on average—according to UCLA’s 2024–25 data. ugeducation.ucla.edu That means you’re arriving ready to focus on upper-division coursework, major work, and integrating into the campus community.
Orientation and support matter. UCLA offers orientation for transfer students, and you will become part of a cohort of new transfers (~3,832 enrolled in fall 2024). Undergraduate Admission+1 You’ll need to quickly adapt to campus processes, join clubs, engage with faculty, and establish your academic plan.
Because you’re entering as a junior, making smart choices around courses, major progression, and campus resources is critical. Use academic advising, establish connections early, and seek research or internship opportunities that elevate your time at UCLA from “finishing a degree” to “launching a career.”
Living arrangements matter. Secure housing, learn about campus life in the transfer community, and connect with other new transfers so you don’t feel like you’re starting solo. Transfer orientation or transfer student centers often provide these networking opportunities.
Finally, you’ll want to maintain momentum. Just because you’ve been admitted doesn’t mean the experience is static. Use your time at UCLA to build projects, join professional groups, make friends, explore study abroad, research, internships—and make sure your junior and senior years count for more than just finishing credits.
Conclusion
Here’s the reality: transferring to UCLA is hard, but it’s also achievable—provided you prepare strategically. The transfer acceptance rate of ~23 % for fall 2024 and fall 2025 sets the benchmark. But remember: that rate is shaped by your major, your source school, your GPA, your readiness, and the narrative you bring.
If you’re coming from a California community college, aim to complete your prerequisites, maintain high grades (3.8–4.0), pick a major aligned with your goals and preparation, and craft a story of why you’re transferring. If you’re coming from another institution, understand that your competition may be stiffer, and you’ll need to lean into strengths that differentiate you.
Don’t rely on the “1 in 4” number alone. Use it to motivate you—and then dig deeper. Your best chance comes from strong preparation, realistic planning, alternative pathways, and genuine passion for your subject. With those in hand, you’re not just applying to UCLA—you’re positioning yourself to thrive there.
Also Check:
UCLA Acceptance Rate: What It Really Takes to Get In (2024–2025 Data Explained)
Study Abroad Resume Tips: How to Turn Your Study Abroad Experience into a Career Advantage
