How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into UCLA

The University of California, Los Angeles, commonly called UCLA, is the second oldest university in the University of California system, established in 1919. It is also one of the most prestigious, and many students set their sights on becoming a Bruin each year.

Though UCLA is a public research institution, it is well known for its low acceptance rates and high standards for prospective students. Like any prestigious university, getting into UCLA requires a certain level of academic success, an impressive resume, high standardized test scores, and a solid personal essay.

If UCLA is your dream school, you'll want to understand the specific landscape of the school and its admissions standards. This will help you tailor your application for the best chance of following in the footsteps of other UCLA students.

What Is UCLA Looking For in Applicants?

UCLA uses a holistic review process, which means the admissions team looks at more than just your grades and test scores. They want to see students who are intellectually curious, driven, and committed to making a difference both in and outside of the classroom.

This means your application should tell a complete story—who you are, what you care about, and how you’ve grown. Do you have leadership skills? Have you overcome challenges? Have you made a meaningful impact in your school or community? These qualities can stand out as much as a perfect GPA.

Ultimately, UCLA is looking for students who will bring something special to campus and make the most of the opportunities offered there.

How to Write a Strong UCLA Personal Insight Essay

UCLA doesn’t require traditional personal statements. Instead, they use Personal Insight Questions (PIQs), which allow applicants to share more about who they are and what matters to them.

You’ll choose four out of eight questions to answer, and each response has a maximum of 350 words. These are your chance to show what sets you apart. Think of these not just as essays, but as windows into your values, challenges, and goals.

As you write, be honest and specific. Avoid general statements and clichés. Instead, focus on moments of growth or turning points in your life—experiences that shaped your goals or character. For example, did you lead a project that made a difference in your community? Did you face a setback that taught you resilience?

Most importantly, your answers should reflect your authentic voice. UCLA admissions officers want to get to know the real you—not a version you think they want to see.

Best Extracurriculars for UCLA Applicants

When it comes to extracurriculars, there’s no one-size-fits-all checklist. What matters most is your genuine engagement in the activities you choose.

UCLA values students who pursue their interests with passion and commitment. Whether you’re involved in theater, robotics, student government, or community service, your activities should reflect your curiosity, leadership, and personal growth.

Depth matters more than quantity. Instead of joining every club, focus on the ones that matter most to you and take on meaningful roles. Show how your activities align with your future goals or academic interests, and how you’ve made an impact through them.

Admissions officers can tell when you're checking boxes versus when you’re truly invested in something. Choose activities that inspire you and let your dedication shine through.

Do You Need to Take the SAT or ACT for UCLA?

As of recent application cycles, the University of California system is test-blind, which means UCLA does not consider SAT or ACT scores in admissions decisions, even if you submit them.

This policy helps level the playing field and allows students to be evaluated more holistically. That said, strong academics, extracurriculars, and essays still carry a lot of weight.

While test scores are not required, some students still choose to take the SAT or ACT to qualify for certain scholarships or to apply to other universities that do require them. If you're one of those students, it’s still smart to prep and do your best.

But for UCLA admissions specifically, your focus should be on other areas of your application, like your GPA, course rigor, and personal insight responses.

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Applicant Pool

With so many qualified applicants, it’s important to think about what makes you stand out. Admissions officers are looking for students who bring something different to the table—so don't be afraid to lean into your uniqueness.

Did you start a nonprofit or tutor younger students in your community? Did you develop a strong interest in environmental science after starting a garden at school? These types of experiences help show your initiative, leadership, and curiosity.

Also, consider asking for strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your character and work ethic. A thoughtful recommendation can reinforce what you’ve shared in your essays and highlight personal qualities that may not appear elsewhere in your application.

Finally, keep in mind that your story doesn’t need to be extraordinary to be compelling. Often, simple stories told honestly—about growth, values, or overcoming setbacks—resonate the most.

UCLA Stats (Updated for Fall 2024 Admissions)

UCLA remains one of the most competitive public universities in the United States. Understanding the latest admissions data can help you assess your readiness and tailor your application effectively.​

Acceptance Rate

For the Fall 2024 admissions cycle, UCLA received 146,276 first-year applications and admitted 13,114 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 9%. This continues the trend of highly competitive admissions at UCLA.

Average GPA

UCLA evaluates applicants based on both weighted and unweighted GPAs, calculated from courses completed in grades 10 and 11:

• Weighted GPA (middle 50% range): 4.42–4.76

• Unweighted GPA (middle 50% range): 3.95–4.00​

The median weighted GPA for admitted students was 4.60, and the median unweighted GPA was 4.00.

Standardized Test Scores

As of the current admissions policy, UCLA is test-blind. This means that SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process, even if submitted . Applicants should focus on other aspects of their application, such as GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and personal insight responses.​

By staying informed about UCLA's admissions statistics, you can better prepare your application to align with the university's expectations. Focus on maintaining strong academic performance, engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities, and crafting compelling personal insight responses to enhance your chances of admission.​

Tips From a UCLA Student

You should also listen to advice from students who have been in your shoes and succeeded in being admitted to UCLA. These students can reflect on the college admissions process and locate methods and practices that worked for them. Seeing that other students have been where you are will give you perspective and inspire you!

For example, Shanaya Sidhu, a student at UCLA, advises future applicants to work hard but focus on classes and activities that interest them rather than pleasing the admissions officers.

She says, “While taking as many AP courses as possible to challenge yourself, it is also essential to take AP courses in the subject matter you are truly interested in, especially that which you are interested in pursuing in college. You will excel particularly in subject matter you are passionate about and driven by.”

The same is true for activities. According to Shanaya, “It is better to keep yourself busy during high school with activities that interest you and help you make an impact on your community; you should always involve yourself in activities that benefit and interest you, rather than activities you think will interest colleges on your college resume. Colleges can see when you are just trying too hard to impress them, so you should showcase your passions through activities you were dedicated to and make a difference.”

You can read more of Shanaya’s tips and other student success stories in the book College Admission—How to Get Into Your Dream School: Real Students, Real Stories by James W. Lewis.

As you continue your college search and prepare to apply to UCLA and other dream schools, remember there are plenty of resources to utilize during this process.

Mentors, online communities, books, blogs, counselors, and test prep advisors are there to help you, so make sure you take good notes and start building the application you need to get into the school of your dreams. Enjoy the process, and good luck!