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UC Berkeley Acceptance Rate: 11.4%

Everything you need to know about getting into University of California, Berkeley — acceptance rate, test scores, GPA benchmarks, and what admissions officers actually value.

Acceptance Rate
11.4%
SAT Range
1330–1530
Avg GPA
3.91
Enrollment
32,830
Highly Selective

A competitive applicant pool where well-rounded profiles stand out. With an acceptance rate of 11.4%, University of California, Berkeley rejects the majority of its applicants. For the Class of 2026, this means you need more than strong numbers — your whole application matters.

What it takes to get into UC Berkeley

Based on Common Data Set (CDS) reporting, here is how UC Berkeley weights each admissions factor:

Course rigor & GPAVery important
LeadershipImportant
Activity depthImportant
Application essaysImportant
Awards & honorsConsidered
Spike / distinctive talentConsidered
RecommendationsNot considered

Key takeaways for applicants

Academics are the foundation. Aim for a GPA at or above 3.91 and SAT scores in the 13301530 range. Take the most rigorous courses available to you.

Test policy: UC Berkeley is test-blind and does not consider SAT/ACT scores in admissions decisions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Berkeley?

The acceptance rate at University of California, Berkeley is approximately 11.4% for the Class of 2026. This means roughly 9 students apply for every admitted student.

What SAT score do I need for UC Berkeley?

The middle 50% SAT range at University of California, Berkeley is 1330–1530. Scoring within or above this range positions you competitively, though admissions are holistic.

What GPA do I need for UC Berkeley?

The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at University of California, Berkeley is 3.91. Course rigor matters as much as the GPA number itself — admissions officers want to see the most challenging curriculum available to you.

Is UC Berkeley hard to get into?

With a 11.4% acceptance rate, University of California, Berkeley is highly selective. Beyond strong numbers, you need compelling essays, meaningful extracurriculars, and strong recommendations.

More about UC Berkeley

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Check your odds at UC Berkeley

AdmitPath analyzes your profile across 7 dimensions calibrated to UC Berkeley's admissions priorities. Free, instant, data-driven.