University of California, San Diego Admissions: Acceptance Rate, GPA, SAT
STEM research giant on the coast — strong bioengineering and CS programs.
See your real chances at UCSD
AdmitPath scores your profile across 7 dimensions and tells you, honestly, where you stand.
What it takes to get into UCSD
UCSD accepts roughly 24% of applicants — competitive but more accessible than the most selective Ivies.The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1290 and 1490 on the SAT, and the average unweighted GPA is around 4.10.
Numbers alone don't get you in. UCSD reads holistically — they want to see academic rigor in your high school transcript (AP/IB/Honors course load), genuine intellectual curiosity, leadership in extracurriculars, a clear “spike” or area of demonstrated excellence, strong essays, and recommendation letters that vouch for your character.
Test-optional policies vary year to year. Even where tests are optional, applicants who submit scores in the 75th-percentile range typically have an edge. Check UCSD's admissions page for the current cycle's policy.
What UCSD Weighs in Admissions
Visual breakdown from Common Data Set Section C7
UCSD Acceptance Rate
24% acceptance rate with SAT, GPA benchmarks and selectivity analysis.
How to Get Into UCSD
Data-driven admissions strategy based on CDS weights and what actually matters.
How to Write the “Why UCSD?” Essay
Research tips, common mistakes, and what admissions is actually looking for.
See Where You Stand
GPA vs SAT scattergram — compare your stats to admitted and rejected students.
Practice UCSD Interview Questions
AI-scored mock interview with real alumni questions. 5-dimension feedback.
UCSD Admissions FAQ
What is UCSD's acceptance rate?
UCSD admits approximately 24% of applicants based on the most recent reported Common Data Set figures. This rate has trended downward over the past decade as application volumes have grown.
What SAT score do you need for UCSD?
Admitted students at UCSD typically score between 1290 (25th percentile) and 1490 (75th percentile) on the SAT. Hitting or exceeding the 75th percentile gives you a meaningful edge.
What GPA do you need for UCSD?
The average admitted student at UCSD has an unweighted GPA of approximately 4.10 on a 4.0 scale — though weighted GPAs and course rigor matter just as much as the raw number.
Is UCSD test-optional?
UCSD's testing policy varies by cycle. Some years they are test-optional, some years test-required. Always confirm on the official admissions page before submitting.
Compare UCSD with similar schools
Stats are approximate, drawn from publicly-reported Common Data Set figures. Confirm current numbers on UCSD's official admissions site.