Is UC Berkeley, UCLA, UCSD, or another UC campus part of your dream college list?
If yes, it’s important to understand how competitive UC admissions have become. The University of California system receives hundreds of thousands of applications each year, and admit rates continue to drop. UC Berkeley, for example, recently released admission statistics for its most popular majors—and the acceptance rates are shockingly low.
First Choice Major / Admit Rate
Computer Science 1.9%
Electrical & Comp Sc Engineering. 7.6%
Spieker Business Program 4%
Psychology 5.8%
Mechanical Engineering 4.9%
So what does this mean for students aiming to secure a spot at a UC? It means that applying without a clear plan is risky. A strong application isn’t just about good grades; it’s about presenting yourself in a way that matches the expectations of these highly selective schools. Here are a few key steps:
✅ Choose your major strategically
Some majors at UCs are significantly more competitive than others (e.g., Computer Science, Business, Economics). If your passion aligns with one of these, you’ll need to be prepared for an uphill battle. In some cases, exploring related but less selective majors—and showing how they still align with your long-term goals—can improve your chances.
✅ Highlight 2–3 standout qualities
Admissions officers read thousands of applications. The question you should ask yourself is: What will make mine memorable? Whether it’s leadership, research, community work, or a unique personal story, identify a few factors that clearly define your profile and emphasize them throughout your application.
✅ Align extracurriculars with passion + impact
Random club memberships don’t carry much weight. Instead, your extracurriculars should tell a story: What do you care about? How have you made a difference? For example, if you’re interested in environmental studies, joining the eco-club is great—but leading a project to reduce waste on campus or creating a local awareness campaign shows real initiative and impact.
The bottom line:
Getting into a UC is not impossible, but it does require strategy. Strong academics are just the foundation—you need to layer on thoughtful major selection, a well-crafted personal narrative, and extracurriculars that clearly reflect your interests and impact.
With the right planning, you can present yourself as a competitive candidate who stands out in one of the toughest admissions landscapes.
Book a 1:1 consultation with us and with our expert mentorship, achieve your educational aspirations.