University of California-San Diego is one of the renowned universities in the USA. It is very competitive to get admission to. The acceptance rate of University of California-San Diego (UCSD) is 23.71%. This means that only 24 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.
How Competitive are University of California-San Diego Admissions?
- Highly Competitive: Applicants need strong academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.
With one of the lowest acceptance rates in the US, you need to be excellent in every area to get selected. However, since the acceptance rate is not below 10%, you still have a chance if your GPA is not perfect. You can make up for a GPA deficiency by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses. Meeting University of California-San Diego\'s GPA and standardized test (SAT/ACT) requirements is crucial, as failing to do so may prevent your application from moving forward. These requirements act as automatic filters, so meeting them is vital; failing to do so makes your chance of getting in nearly zero.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can enhance your admission chances.
University of California-San Diego Admission Requirements
UCSD GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at UCSD is 3.82. 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 3.52 and 3.82, then you need a high SAT or ACT score to compensate. You need a minimum of 3.42 GPA to have a realistic chance of admission.
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. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
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.
University of California-San Diego Average SAT Score: 1375
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of California-San Diego is 1375 on the 1600 SAT scale.
University of California-San Diego SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1375 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (0 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of California-San Diego allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 0, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to UCSD. 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.
University of California-San Diego SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Reading | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Composite | 1375 | 0 | 0 |
It means that if you have scored less than 0 then you are below most of the admitted students at UCSD and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 0 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 1400
Can I get into University of California-San Diego (UCSD) with a 0 SAT?
With a 0 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of California-San Diego (UCSD) are good but the admission staff at UCSD 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.
UCSD Profile
Name: University of California-San Diego (UCSD)
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into University of California-San Diego
Boost Your Test Scores: Retake the SAT/ACT if needed. Use resources to improve your score.
Focus on Academics: Maintain a high GPA and take challenging courses.
Extracurricular Activities: University of California-San Diego values well-rounded students who make meaningful contributions to their communities. Here’s how to showcase your strengths:
- Highlight long-term commitments, and unique accomplishments.
- Leaderships: Demonstrate clear leadership experience. This is not only true for University of California-San Diego but also other schools. If you cannot demonstrate strong leadership qualities, your chances of acceptance will be low. Work on your weak areas, and improve your communication and interpersonal skills. Also, include your work experiences where you were given leadership responsibilities, and write down your achievements and how you were able to contribute as a team leader and team member.
- Community Service: Show how you have influenced change in the community and have a strong desire to do so in the future. Also, if you are planning to apply for University of California-San Diego, participate in relevant activities. Work for social welfare and look for opportunities where you can make an impact. Start with your school or student council. Those having positions like president, secretary generals etc… in students councils have better chances. Network with notable people and develop your social media profile accordingly.
- Passion Projects: Whether it’s starting a club, publishing research, or excelling in the arts, show what sets you apart. Example: If you’ve founded a nonprofit or won a national competition, make sure it’s prominently featured in your application.
- Align your goals with University of California-San Diego’s mission. Carefully read the objectives and mission of University of California-San Diego on their official website and plan accordingly for each specific point. See how well your profile matches their objectives and goals, and work on the areas where you are lacking.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Get letters from professors or employers who know your abilities well. Share your achievements and goals with them for a stronger, more personalized recommendation. If personal statement and recommendations align, your chances of success will be higher.
- Build a Strong Network: Engage with University of California-San Diego Alumni and current students. Ask them how they planned their scholarship journey, what challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. Learn about the key factors behind their success and how they secured their selection.
- Craft Strong Essays: Tell your story authentically and highlight what makes you unique. College Essay is a very important document. Unlike your transcripts, which just show your numbers or grades, the essay reflects your true personality as a human being. Take considerable time to refine and craft your statement of purpose. Here are the detailed guidelines for writing a winning College Essay form our experts.
Does a degree from UCSD Worth It?
Getting into UCSD can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. UCSD offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at UCSD is USD: 76397.62 and unemployment rate is 3.65%.
How much does a degree from UCSD Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at University of California-San Diego is USD: 35274. 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-San Diego is USD: 15069
How can I get a scholarship?
31.93% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 24.05 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UCSD and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of California-San Diego, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UCSD as your choice in the form.
How much a UCSD Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the UCSD graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 84943. An average UCSD 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-San Diego. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of University of California-San Diego, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas Aquinas College | Thomas Aquinas College, CA | 1328 | 30 |
| University of Denver | University of Denver, CO | 1348 | 30 |
| University of Connecticut | University of Connecticut, CT | 1340 | 31 |
| Fairfield University | Fairfield University, CT | 1325 | 30 |
| University of Georgia | University of Georgia, GA | 1335 | 30 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Illinois Institute of Technology, IL | 1328 | 30 |
| United States Naval Academy | United States Naval Academy, MD | 1326 | 29 |
| Bentley University | Bentley University, MA | 1346 | 30 |
| College of the Holy Cross | College of the Holy Cross, MA | 1361 | 30 |
| Wheaton College (Massachusetts) | Wheaton College (Massachusetts), MA | 1346 | 30 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of California-San Diego. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for University of California-San Diego, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola Marymount University | Loyola Marymount University, CA | 1378 | 31 |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara University, CA | 1379 | 31 |
| Westmont College | Westmont College, CA | 1380 | 32 |
| Wheaton College | Wheaton College, IL | 1367 | 31 |
| Centre College | Centre College, KY | 1366 | 30 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of California-San Diego. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occidental College | Occidental College, CA | 1434 | 33 |
| Connecticut College | Connecticut College, CT | 1427 | 32 |
| Wesleyan University | Wesleyan University, CT | 1426 | 33 |
| George Washington University | George Washington University, DC | 1420 | 33 |
| University of Miami | University of Miami, FL | 1409 | 32 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Anthropology
- Applied Mathematics
- Area Studies
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
- Biology, General
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions About University of California-San Diego Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the tuition fee for University of California-San Diego?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $30,000 to $50,000 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at University of California-San Diego?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for University of California-San Diego?
Answer: The acceptance rate is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at University of California-San Diego?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is . This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to University of California-San Diego?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around -0.3, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at University of California-San Diego with a GPA 0.3 points lower than the average?
Answer: If your GPA is -0.4 or less, it may makes admission difficult -0.3. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to University of California-San Diego if my GPA is below 3.42
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is " .($university_data['gpas']). ", 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: Is it possible to transfer to University of California-San Diego from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to University of California-San Diego each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at University of California-San Diego?
Answer: The campus culture at University of California-San Diego is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into University of California-San Diego?
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-San Diego.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2024, US Department of Education's latest 2024 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.