The University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) is the top ranked public institution of higher learning in the United States, according to U.S. News and World Report. Not surprisingly, admission to the university is extremely competitive. For the fall 2019 term, the university accepted only 12% of the individuals who submitted applications to enroll in the freshman class.
Exploring UCLA Acceptance Rates
According to UCLA admissions data reported by UCLA, 111,322 people applied for admission to the Fall 2019 freshman class. Of those applicants, 13,720 were accepted to enter the class. This represents a 12 percent acceptance rate.
| Residence | Applicants | Accepted | Acceptance Rate |
| California residents | 69,607 | 8,354 | 12% |
| Out-of-state U.S. residents | 23,137 | 3,806 | 16% |
| International | 18,578 | 1,560 | 8% |
| Total | 111,322 | 13,720 | 12% |
Of those who were accepted to enter the fall 2019 freshman class, 5,920 (43%) actually enrolled.
UCLA Admissions Requirements
If you're interested in attending UCLA, it's important to know the school's admissions requirements. However, it is also important to realize that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that an individual will be accepted to attend the university. Because the school receives so many more applications from perspective students than it has the capacity to admit, individuals who are selected for admission typically significantly exceed the university's minimum admissions requirements.
High School Curriculum
To be considered for acceptance to UCLA as a freshman, prospective students must successfully complete a rigorous college prep course load in high school. There are 15 specific subject matter requirements, and 11 of the 15 must be completed by the time an applicant has completed his or her junior year of high school. Students must earn a grade of at least 'C' in all of these subjects. The requirements include:
- English (4 years required)
- Foreign language (2 years required; 3 recommended)
- History / Social Science (2 years required)
- Laboratory Science (2 years required; 3 recommended)
- Mathematics (3 years required; 4 recommended)
- Visual / Performing Arts (1 year required)
- Additional elective in at least one of the above areas (1 year required)
Grade Point Average
UCLA looks at grade point average (GPA) specific to the subjects listed in the section above. The minimum GPA in the required subjects is different for in-state and out-of-state applicants.
- California residents must have a GPA of at least 3.0 in the specified subjects
- Out-of-state residents must have a GPA of at least 3.4 in the specified subjects
Standardized Test Requirements
All undergraduate applicants to UCLA must submit ACT or SAT scores that include a writing component. You must take your standardized exams no later than the December preceding the fall term for which you are seeking admission, though it is advisable to sit for your exam(s) earlier in the school year. If you sit for your SAT or ACT in December, you must request that your scores be sent directly to the school from the testing agency rather than having them sent to you first.
Either of the following is acceptable:
- ACT and the ACT Writing Test
- SAT with Essay (students graduating from high school in 2020 or later must take the new SAT)
Individuals who wish to be considered for admission to UCLA's School of Engineering are also encouraged to take SAT subject matter tests specific to science and math.
Highly Competitive Admissions Process
If you meet the requirements and would like to attend UCLA, the only way you'll find out if you can get accepted is to apply. Applications are due by November 30 for the following academic year's freshman class. Applicants are typically notified of admissions decisions in late March.
