UCSC admissions
UCSC Acceptance Rate: 47%
Everything you need to know about getting into University of California, Santa Cruz — acceptance rate, test scores, GPA benchmarks, and what admissions officers actually value.
Competitive admissions with a strong academic floor. With an acceptance rate of 47%, University of California, Santa Cruz has competitive admissions. For the Class of 2026, this means you need more than strong numbers — your whole application matters.
What it takes to get into UCSC
Based on Common Data Set (CDS) reporting, here is how UCSC weights each admissions factor:
Key takeaways for applicants
Academics are the foundation. Aim for a GPA at or above 3.68 and SAT scores in the 1130–1350 range. Take the most rigorous courses available to you.
Test policy: UCSC 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, Santa Cruz?
The acceptance rate at University of California, Santa Cruz is approximately 47% for the Class of 2026. This means roughly 2 students apply for every admitted student.
What SAT score do I need for UCSC?
The middle 50% SAT range at University of California, Santa Cruz is 1130–1350. Scoring within or above this range positions you competitively, though admissions are holistic.
What GPA do I need for UCSC?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at University of California, Santa Cruz is 3.68. Course rigor matters as much as the GPA number itself — admissions officers want to see the most challenging curriculum available to you.
Is UCSC hard to get into?
With a 47% acceptance rate, University of California, Santa Cruz is selective. Meeting academic benchmarks is essential, and a well-rounded application strengthens your candidacy.
More about UCSC
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