The University of California (UC) continues to expand access, with a 4.3% increase in California first-year admissions for fall 2024. UC is test-blind, meaning that test scores are not used to evaulate applications. We wanted to provide some insight from the UC Counselor Conference and offer a few helpful tips for students who are applying in the fall:
1. UC admissions is an additive process.
Everything that you send in your application, including test scores and GPAs, will be used in a holistic process called comprehensive review. The evaluation process and specific weight for each factor can differ from campus to campus and from year to year.
2. Do research on the schools you’re applying to.
Every school’s application process is unique. Be sure to review the process of each campus when you apply. For instance, UCLA does not allow for alternate majors in the fall 2025 application. All UC schools saw an increase in applications last year. While every UC campus uses the same factors to evaluate applications, they often apply these factors differently. For example, some schools take a close look at the major selected or the specific college. Take time to be clear in your understanding of what each school is looking for.
Many schools have an influx of STEM applicants. Each campus is looking for students to fit in other disciplines, including new majors, so be sure to explore different programs and keep an open mind .
3. Gather your materials to complete your application successfully.
Everything is self-reported in the UC admissions process. Be sure to have the following information readily available when completing the application: household income and family information, academic records, descriptions of your role in extracurricular activities, explanation of community service or work experience with length of time spent, as well as a list of awards and honors with context.
4. Respond thoughtfully to the UC Personal Insight Questions.
Given that the UC system doesn’t accept letters of recommendation, the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are one of the few opportunities for you to self-advocate and set yourself apart from other applicants. There are given eight prompts and applicants are asked to write short answers to four of them.
PIQ responses should directly address the prompt, providing context to and offering clarity on your application. There are no “good” or “bad” answers, and the criteria for evaluating PIQs fall into two categories: “missed opportunity” or “value added.” A “missed opportunity” response doesn’t provide much context about your experience. A “missed opportunity” is focused more on structure than content, and centers on others’ narratives rather than your own. A “value added” response is focused on the impact on you and/or the impact you had on others, is centered around self, and provides specific examples.
Important reminder: No decision is ever based on PIQs alone!
Here is an Undergraduate Admissions Application Guide provided by the University of California system for your reference. Remember that all Offers of admission are provisional until the campus receives your final official transcript and verifies successful completion of all coursework required for UC eligibility. Each campus provides newly admitted students with conditions for admission that must be satisfied prior to enrollment at the University.
Contact us for more resources.