The University of California, Riverside, established in 1954, is a premier public research university and member of the world-renowned UC system, ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News. UCR offers 80+ undergraduate programs across three colleges, with particular strengths in engineering, agriculture, and the humanities. The university's 1,200-acre campus features modern facilities including the $75 million School of Medicine Education Building and the recently completed Student Success Center. UCR is classified as an R1 research institution with leadership in citrus research, nanotechnology, and climate science.
UCR's location in Southern California's Inland Empire provides access to Los Angeles and Orange County while offering more affordable living costs. The university's Highlanders compete in NCAA Division I athletics in the Big West Conference. UCR is recognized for its diversity and social mobility impact, with many first-generation college students. The campus features extensive botanical gardens and hosts cultural events through the Culver Center for the Arts. UCR's research parks and business incubators foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
University of California-Riverside Acceptance Rate
University of California-Riverside (UC Riverside) is somewhat selective. With an acceptance rate of 63.3%, the school is accessible to students who demonstrate foundational academic competency and a readiness for college-level work.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
University of California-Riverside Admission Requirements
UC Riverside GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at UC Riverside is 3.84. This indicates extreme selectivity in admissions.
To have strong chances, you must aim for straight A’s in all courses.
If your GPA is between 3.54 and 3.84, then you need a high SAT or ACT score to compensate.
UC Riverside GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.
Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.
Admissions at UC Riverside utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.84, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.84 – 4.00 | Competitive Reach | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.64 – 3.83 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.44 – 3.63 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.43 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At UC Riverside, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of California-Riverside (UC Riverside) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
University of California-Riverside Average SAT Score: 1180
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of California-Riverside is 1180 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it less competitive for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1180 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1210 SAT or ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of California-Riverside allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1140, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to UC Riverside. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | ||
| SAT Reading | 0 | ||
| SAT Composite | 1180 | 1140 | 1210 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1140 then you are below most of the admitted students at UC Riverside and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1210 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1200
Can I get into University of California-Riverside (UC Riverside) with a 1200 SAT?
With a 1200 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of California-Riverside (UC Riverside) are good but the admission staff at UC Riverside tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
UC Riverside Profile
Name: University of California-Riverside (UC Riverside)
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
How much does a degree from UC Riverside Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of California-Riverside is USD: 34975. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of California-Riverside is USD: 13707
How can I get a scholarship?
46.69% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 32.81 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UC Riverside and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of California-Riverside, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UC Riverside as your choice in the form.
How much a UC Riverside Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 67699. An average UC Riverside graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of California-Riverside. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Huntingdon College, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa Pacific University, CA | 1155 | 22 |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | University of Colorado Colorado Springs, CO | 1140 | 25 |
| Western Colorado University | Western Colorado University, CO | 1130 | 25 |
| Lynn University | Lynn University, FL | 1136 | 25 |
| Florida International University | Florida International University, FL | 1154 | 23 |
| University of West Florida | University of West Florida, FL | 1137 | 24 |
| Georgia College & State University | Georgia College & State University, GA | 1150 | 24 |
| Georgia State University | Georgia State University, GA | 1149 | 23 |
| Toccoa Falls College | Toccoa Falls College, GA | 1155 | 23 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of California-Riverside. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | University of Arkansas, AR | 1174 | 25 |
| Harding University | Harding University, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| University of New Haven | University of New Haven, CT | 1190 | NA |
| Nova Southeastern University | Nova Southeastern University, FL | 1182 | 25 |
| Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah College of Art and Design, GA | 1178 | 25 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of California-Riverside. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL | 1251 | 26 |
| University of Mobile | University of Mobile, AL | 1220 | 24 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott, AZ | 1256 | 27 |
| John Brown University | John Brown University, AR | 1222 | 26 |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Ouachita Baptist University, AR | 1212 | 25 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Anthropology
- Area Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Chemical Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions About University of California-Riverside Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $67699 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $34975 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of University of California-Riverside is 63.3 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.84. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.54, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.54, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.54 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.44 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
Question: Can I apply to University of California-Riverside if my GPA is below 3.44
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.84, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement
Answer: Admission to University of California-Riverside is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1180 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1140-1210
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by University of California-Riverside.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.