How Selective Is UCLA? Acceptance Rates and What They Look For

UCLA is among the most selective U.S. public universities. Fall 2018 overall admit rate: 14%.

By Residency

• CA residents: 19%
• Out-of-state: 8%
• International: 5%

Academic Expectations

• GPA: 3.8+ typical (unweighted)
• SAT: ~1400 avg; ACT: ~32 avg
• Rigorous curriculum (AP/IB/Honors)

Holistic Review

Beyond numbers: leadership, extracurricular depth, essays, recommendations, overcoming adversity, contribution to diversity.

Strong academics are necessary but not sufficient; UCLA seeks engaged, diverse changemakers.