Janice Lozano
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a dream destination for many aspiring international students, but getting in is tough. In 2024, UCLA's acceptance rate for international freshmen applicants was just 6%, and the university gives preference to students transferring from California community colleges. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, either through their high school education or by taking a language test, and they must also prove they have sufficient funds to cover their educational and living expenses. To improve your chances of gaining admission to UCLA, it's recommended that you undertake extracurricular activities, pursue leadership roles, and dedicate time to community service. A well-crafted personal statement that showcases who you are and how you will fit in as a student at UCLA is also essential.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Acceptance rate for international freshmen applicants | 6% (2024) |
| Acceptance rate for freshmen applicants | 8% (2024) |
| Acceptance rate for international transfer applicants | 34% (2022/23) |
| English language proficiency exams accepted | TOEFL, IELTS, DET |
| Competitive TOEFL score | Above 100 with sub-scores above 24 |
| Competitive IELTS score | 7.5 or above |
| Competitive DET score | 130 or higher |
| Visa services | F-1 visa, I-20 form |
| Health insurance | UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) |
| Financial aid for international students | None |
| Minimum funds required for Fall Quarter 2025 | $80,739 |
| Recommended funds for Fall Quarter 2025 | $85,739 |
| Suggested application strategies | Speak with alumni and current students, pursue leadership roles, community service, showcase talents and achievements, internships and research, craft a compelling personal statement |
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What You'll Learn
English proficiency exams
International students applying to UCLA need to demonstrate English proficiency if their high school/secondary school education was completed in a country where English was not the language of instruction. This requirement also applies to US citizens and permanent residents.
If you have had less than three years of instruction in English, you must take an English proficiency test. UCLA accepts the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET).
For undergraduate admissions, the recommended scores are as follows:
- TOEFL: above 100 (with sub-scores above 24)
- IELTS: 7.5 or above
- DET: 130 or higher
Note that while official test scores are not required to be sent with the application, all test information must be accurately self-reported on the application site by January.
UCLA also accepts other English proficiency exams, such as:
- AP examination in English Language and Composition: scores of 3, 4, or 5
- IB Standard Level examination in English (Language A only): scores of 6 or 7
- IB Higher Level examination in English (Language A only): scores of 5, 6, or 7
Additionally, you can demonstrate proficiency by completing two UC-transferable English composition courses with a grade of "C" or higher, depending on the campus you're applying to.
For graduate admissions, the minimum scores are:
- TOEFL iBT: 80 or higher
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 or higher
- DET: 115 or higher
- TOEFL iBT Speaking Subsection: 28 or higher
- IELTS Academic Speaking Band: 8.5 or higher
If you are seeking a teaching assistantship, you must also take UCLA's Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP), which evaluates the spoken English skills of international students.
If admitted, international students whose native language is not English may be required to take UCLA's English-as-a-Second-Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) before starting their program. If their scores indicate a weakness in English, they may need to take special English courses or gain proficiency before beginning their studies.
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Extracurricular activities
UCLA has a very low acceptance rate for international students, so gaining admission can be challenging. The university looks for well-rounded students with a range of interests and talents outside the classroom. Here are some tips for making your extracurricular activities work in your favour when applying to UCLA as an international student:
Pursue Leadership Roles:
Engage in extracurricular activities that offer leadership positions. This could be in the form of student government, club presidencies, or team captain roles. Leadership experiences demonstrate your ability to initiate change, contribute to a group, and make a positive impact. These skills are highly valued by UCLA's admissions committee.
Community Service:
Dedicating time to community service and volunteer work showcases your commitment to social responsibility and personal growth. Look for opportunities that align with your passions and interests. For example, if you're interested in environmental conservation, you might volunteer with local organisations focused on sustainability initiatives. Reflect on how these experiences have shaped your perspective and allowed you to make a difference in your community.
Sports and Arts:
UCLA values students with diverse talents and achievements. If you excel in sports, music, visual arts, or other creative pursuits, highlight these in your application. Whether you're a star athlete, a talented musician, or a skilled artist, showcasing your abilities can set you apart from other applicants. These talents demonstrate a well-rounded individual with a passion for personal development.
Internships and Research:
Seek out internships or research projects related to your field of interest. These experiences provide you with practical knowledge and skills that extend beyond the classroom. For instance, if you aspire to be an engineer, consider applying for internships at engineering firms or research institutions. These opportunities demonstrate your initiative, curiosity, and willingness to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
Depth vs. Breadth:
Consider whether you want to focus on a few specific activities and go deep or explore numerous extracurricular pursuits. Some top schools, like UCLA, prefer students who demonstrate deep commitment and impact in one or two activities. However, if you have a diverse range of interests, you can showcase your ability to manage multiple responsibilities and your eagerness to explore different areas. Reflect on what each activity has taught you and how they have contributed to your personal growth.
Remember, UCLA seeks students who can contribute to and benefit from their dynamic campus community. Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in demonstrating your unique skills, passions, and potential impact on their university.
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Personal statement
As an international student, there are a few key steps to follow when applying to UCLA. Firstly, it is important to note that UCLA does not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission, so you will not need to submit these. However, you will need to demonstrate English language proficiency if English is not your first language or the language of instruction in your previous education. Accepted exams for this include TOEFL, IELTS, and DET, with competitive scores being above 100 on the TOEFL, 7.5 or above on the IELTS, and 130 or higher on the DET.
Now, onto the personal statement. UCLA's admissions committee is looking for responses that are authentic and showcase your personality. They want to see who you are beyond your academic performance, so feel free to be yourself and write about what excites and motivates you. Specific details are important here, and you should aim to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, a positive attitude, and your unique personal characteristics.
There are several personal statement prompts, or personal insight questions, that you will need to respond to as part of the application process. These include:
- Describe a leadership experience where you positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts. Reflect on how leadership is about empathy, understanding, and finding common ground.
- Discuss your engagement in programs that increase diversity and your understanding of the barriers facing underrepresented groups. Mention any research or artistic work that reflects diverse communities and voices.
- Highlight any extracurricular activities, volunteer or work experience, and any talents or skills you possess.
Remember, there is no right or wrong way to respond to these prompts, but be cautious with humour and clichés, as they can detract from your voice and authenticity. Focus on providing specific details and showcasing your true self. Good luck with your application!
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Transfer admissions
International students make up 7% of the entering transfer class at UCLA. Transfer applicants need to be at the junior level, meaning they must have taken college-level coursework amounting to 90-130 quarter (60-90 semester) units of credit. UCLA gives preference to students transferring from California community colleges, including international students.
To apply for admission as a transfer student, you must have graduated from high school and completed college-level coursework at any college or university since your graduation. You must apply to a specific major, and every major has preparatory requirements for transfer students. Transfer admission is dependent on the successful completion of this coursework along with a competitive GPA. The average GPA of admitted transfer students is above 3.5, and admitted students have completed most or all major preparatory courses.
If you are applying from outside the US, you must demonstrate proficiency in English if English was not the language of instruction at your previous school. You can do this by taking the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.
To be competitive for admission to UCLA, focus on completing the general UC transfer requirements and major preparation first. Look into Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), which enables California community college students to complete UC general education requirements before they transfer. It’s not a requirement for UCLA, but is strongly recommended for students applying to all schools but the Samueli School of Engineering.
To improve your chances of gaining admission to UCLA, you should undertake extracurricular activities that showcase your leadership skills and other talents. This could include pursuing leadership roles, community service, sports and arts, internships, and research. Your personal statement is an opportunity to showcase who you are as a person and how you will fit in as a student at UCLA. You should reflect on your experiences and showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations.
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$10
Visa services
The UCLA Dashew Center is the central hub for visa services and support for international students and scholars. The Dashew Center provides visa services and support to students and scholars before their arrival and throughout their time at UCLA. The supportive staff at the Dashew Center will help you obtain and maintain your F-1 visa throughout your attendance at UCLA. The Dashew Center also assists students in obtaining an I-20 form, which must be presented to the U.S. Consulate to receive a student visa.
Additionally, University Bridge, an organisation that helps international students transfer to UCLA, also offers support with entry visas. University Bridge provides guidance on various aspects of adjusting to life in the USA, including housing, transportation, cell phone and internet bills, and opening a bank account.
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Frequently asked questions
UCLA has a very low acceptance rate for international students. In 2024, only 6% of international applicants were accepted as freshmen.
Here are some tips to improve your chances:
- Engage in extracurricular activities and take on leadership positions to demonstrate your ability to contribute and make a difference.
- Dedicate time to community service and highlight the impact of your volunteer work.
- Showcase your talents and achievements in sports, music, visual arts, or other creative pursuits.
- Seek out opportunities for internships or research projects related to your field of interest.
- Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations.
- Speak with UCLA alumni and current students to learn more about what it’s like to study at UCLA and why it's a good fit for you.
English language proficiency is critical to your success at UCLA. If all of your high school/secondary school education was completed in English, you are considered proficient. However, if English is not the language of instruction in your country, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency by taking a test such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test. UCLA recommends achieving a competitive score above 100 on the TOEFL, 7.5 or above on the IELTS, or 130 or higher on the Duolingo English Test.
International students must prove that they have sufficient funds available to pay for their educational and living expenses. Additionally, all students, including international students, must have health insurance. Most students will be automatically enrolled in the UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP).
