COLLEGE PROFILE
How to Get Into UCLA in 2026
Most-applied-to university in America, with elite athletics and academics.
Quick Answer
University of California, Los Angeles has a 8.6% acceptance rate with a middle 50% SAT range of 1290-1510 and average GPA of 3.95. Most-applied-to university in America, with elite athletics and academics. Founded 1919 in Los Angeles, CA.
Admissions Snapshot
| Acceptance Rate | 8.6%Extremely Selective |
| SAT Range (25th-75th) | 1290 - 1510 |
| Average GPA (Unweighted) | 3.95 |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 32,420 |
| School Type | Public |
| Location | Los Angeles, CA |
| Founded | 1919 |
| Test Policy | Test-Blind |
| Need-Blind | No |
| Meets 100% Need | No |
Data source: IPEDS College Navigator and institutional Common Data Set (most recent available year). Data lags approximately one year.
What UCLA Values Most (CDS Data)
Who Gets Into UCLA: 4 Composite Profiles
These are composite profiles based on publicly available admissions patterns. They do not represent real individuals.
The Academic Powerhouse
Near-perfect GPA and test scores. Strong in STEM or humanities. Multiple AP/IB courses with 5s and 7s. Research experience or independent project.
The Community Builder
Founded or led a significant student organization. Demonstrated measurable community impact. Strong essays connecting service to personal growth.
The Specialized Expert
Deep expertise in one field — national competition winner, published research, or professional-level skill. Clear spike that makes the application memorable.
The Versatile Contributor
Strong across multiple areas without being the best at any single one. Excellent writer who connects diverse experiences into a coherent narrative.
UCLA Essay Strategy
UCLA's supplemental essays are your chance to demonstrate genuine fit. The "Why UCLA?" essay must reference specific programs, professors, courses, or campus resources. Generic essays about prestige or location are immediately recognizable and ineffective.
Read the UCLA Essay GuideApplication Strategy: ED vs EA vs RD
At 8.6% overall acceptance rate, applying early can significantly improve your odds. Early round acceptance rates are typically 2-3x higher than Regular Decision.
Read our ED vs EA vs RD strategy guide →Use the UCLA Fit Worksheet
Score your profile against UCLA's admissions criteria. See where you stand across 7 dimensions calibrated to real CDS data. Free, no signup required.
Get Your Free UCLA Fit ScoreFrequently Asked Questions
What is UCLA's acceptance rate?
University of California, Los Angeles's acceptance rate is approximately 8.6% based on the most recent Common Data Set. This rate can vary by year and by application round (ED, EA, RD).
What SAT score do I need for UCLA?
The middle 50% SAT range for UCLA is 1290-1510. Scoring above 1510 does not guarantee admission, and scoring below 1290 does not mean rejection — holistic review considers the full application.
What GPA do I need to get into UCLA?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at UCLA is approximately 3.95. Course rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment) matters as much as the GPA number itself.
Does UCLA have Early Decision?
Check UCLA's admissions website at ucla.edu/admissions for the most current information on early application options. Policies can change year to year.
Is UCLA test-optional?
UCLA is test-blind — they do not consider test scores. Test policies can change each admissions cycle.
How many students attend UCLA?
University of California, Los Angeles has approximately 32,420 undergraduate students. As a public university, it offers a large campus community with diverse academic programs.
What is UCLA known for?
Most-applied-to university in America, with elite athletics and academics.
More UCLA Resources
Written by AdmitPath team
Data sourced from IPEDS College Navigator and UCLA's Common Data Set. CDS publication year noted — data may lag one year.
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