University of California, Los Angeles (UC Los Angeles)
As the nation’s top public university and one of the most applied‑to schools in the country, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a world‑class education in sunny Westwood. Founded in 1919, UCLA now enrolls over 33,000 undergraduates and has been ranked No. 15 among National Universities and No. 1 among Top Public Schools. Students enjoy an urban campus minutes from the Pacific Ocean, access to leading faculty and research, and a rich campus culture.
School Profile
Location: Los Angeles, California
Type: Public
Founded: 1919
Address: 1147 Murphy Hall, Box 951436, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Phone: (310) 825‑3101
School Website: ucla.edu
What You Need to Know to Apply UCLA
Admissions Stats
Acceptance Rate: 9.0%
Average High School GPA: 4.6
Average SAT Scores: N/A
Average ACT Scores: N/A
Application Information
Application Platforms: UC Application
Test-Optional Policy: Yes
Application Deadlines: Regular Decision (12/1)
Required Materials: Academic history, Personal Insight Questions
Affordability & Academic Value
Tuition & Fees
Tuition & Fees :$46,503
Room & Board (Food & Housing): $18,960
Academics
4-Year Graduation Rate: 86%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
UC Los Angeles Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
UC Los Angeles applicants must respond to four of eight Personal Insight Questions as part of the UC application. Each response can be up to 350 words. The prompts ask you to discuss leadership, creativity, a talent or skill, educational opportunities or barriers, significant challenges, favorite academic subjects, community impact, and any other personal insight you wish to share. Choose questions that best highlight your experiences and align with UCLA’s comprehensive review process.
What Are the PIQs?
The eight PIQ prompts explore various themes, encouraging you to share your story around leadership, creativity, personal talents, access to education, overcoming adversity, intellectual interests, community service, and the open-ended “Why You?” prompt. By selecting four questions that best reflect your strengths, experiences, and values, you can showcase the qualities you want UC Los Angeles to see.
Where to Get Expert Tips
Want help choosing the best prompts and crafting impactful responses? Visit our UC Los Angeles PIQ Writing Guide for in-depth advice, sample essays, and proven strategies to make your writing stand out. This comprehensive guide walks you through each prompt and helps you reflect your authentic self.
UC Los Angeles Application Checklist
1. Create Your UC Application Account
Go to apply.universityofcalifornia.edu and create an account. Select UCLA along with any other UC campuses you wish to apply to.
2. Enter Personal & Academic Information
Fill out your coursework, grades, activities, awards, and personal background. Make sure your academic record meets the UC A–G subject requirements.
3. Complete Four Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
Choose four out of eight PIQ prompts and write responses of up to 350 words each. Use this opportunity to highlight your personal values, growth, leadership, and experiences.
4. Pay the Application Fee or Request a Waiver
The application fee is $80 per campus for U.S. residents and $95 for international applicants. Fee waivers are available for eligible students and can be requested directly in the application portal.
5. Submit Your Application and Monitor Status
You can submit between October 1 and December 1. After submission, regularly check your email and UC application portal for updates.
Note: UCLA does not require recommendation letters or interviews as part of the application.
Example IvyMax Student Profile
Academic Profile
High School GPA: 4.5
Standardized Testing: SAT 1500
AP Coursework: 8 AP Courses taken
AP Exam Performance: 4 scores of 5
Future Aspirations
Planning to pursue a bioengineering degree, conducting research in prosthetic design and advocating for women in STEM. She hopes to create innovative solutions that improve mobility and inspire others to follow careers in science and engineering.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: IvyMax. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
Interested in our program?
Complete the form below and we’ll quickly respond with detailed information, and answers to all your questions!
