University of California-San Diego is a well-known institution. It is selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of University of California-San Diego (UCSD) is 34.2%, meaning that approximately 34 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.
Given the low acceptance rate, strong academic performance and extracurricular involvement are crucial. However, since the acceptance rate is not below 20%, you still have a chance even if your GPA is not excellent. You can compensate for a lower GPA by scoring high on the SAT, ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
A well-written letter of recommendation, participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and strong interpersonal communication skills can enhance your chances of admission.
University of California-San Diego Admission Requirements
UCSD GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at UCSD is 4. This indicates that UCSD is very selective in terms of GPA. (Most schools report a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some may use unweighted GPA. For exact information, contact the school admission staff.)
With an average GPA of 4, UCSD requires you to be near the top of your class. You need to score mostly A's in all classes to have a good chance of admission. A couple of B's won't hurt much, but more B's may put you in a lower category. Additionally, you must take AP or IB courses to demonstrate your academic ability. Your AP and IB courses should be related to your selected course of study. For example, if you plan a career in engineering or IT, courses related to mathematics, calculus, and physics will help.
If your GPA is less than 4 and higher than 3.7, you need higher SAT or ACT scores to compensate. You need a minimum of 3.6 GPA to secure admission at UCSD. Below this, your chances of admission will be very slim.
Can I Get Into UCSD Without SAT Or ACT?
University of California-San Diego does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. However, it is better to submit your test scores if you have performed well. This gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies, potentially improving your chances of admission. Plan early and appear in upcoming SAT/ACT tests. Check the test schedule and plan accordingly. It is advisable to take the test multiple times unless you score well above the average SAT/ACT scores of admitted students, as shown below. Normally, students may take the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is below the national or state average, it may be better not to submit it, as it could negatively impact your application.
University of California-San Diego (UCSD) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
UCSD Profile
Name: University of California-San Diego (UCSD)
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
How Much Does a Degree from UCSD Cost?
The average annual cost of a degree at University of California-San Diego is USD: 32719. Since most students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants, the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of California-San Diego is USD: 14895
How Can I Get a Scholarship?
33.38% of the students receive Pell Grants, and 24.6% receive federal grants. So, it is a wise choice to attend UCSD and apply for Pell or federal loan grants.
At University of California-San Diego, you should have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA application form as early as possible and list UCSD as your choice on the form.
How Much Does a UCSD Graduate Earn?
The average annual salary of a UCSD graduate 4-6 years after graduation is USD 82255. On average, a UCSD graduate earns this amount 10 years after enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD 36,834.
UCSD Degree Programs
University of California-San Diego offers following degree programs.
Bachelor Programs
- Aerospace Engineering
- Anthropology
- Applied Mathematics
- Applied Psychology
- Area Studies
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Bioinformatics
- Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
Full list of All degree programs offered by University of California-San Diego.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard, US Department of Education, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.