Douglas Olsen
UCLA is a dream university for many students, especially international students who wish to study in the US. However, getting into UCLA is not easy, and it is even tougher for international students. In 2024, UCLA accepted only 6% of freshman applicants who were international students. International students must meet several requirements, including demonstrating English proficiency if English was not the primary language of instruction in their high school education. Additionally, they must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover educational and living expenses. While UCLA does not offer scholarships or financial aid to international undergraduate students, organizations like University Bridge offer support and guidance to improve an international student's chances of gaining admission.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Acceptance rate for international freshmen applicants | 6% |
| Acceptance rate for all freshmen applicants | 8% |
| Acceptance rate for international transfer applicants | 34% |
| English proficiency exams accepted | TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test |
| Minimum TOEFL score | 100 (with sub-scores above 24) |
| Minimum IELTS score | 7.5 |
| Minimum Duolingo English Test score | 130 |
| Visa services | Provided by UCLA Dashew Center |
| Health insurance | Required, but can be waived with proof of equivalent private insurance |
| Financial aid for international students | Not provided |
| Minimum funds required for Fall Quarter 2025 | $80,739, with an additional $5,000 recommended |
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What You'll Learn
UCLA's acceptance rate for international students
UCLA is a dream university for many students, but it is tough to get admitted, especially for international students. UCLA does not admit undergraduate students who already hold Bachelor's degrees or the equivalent of three years of transferable university work. Additionally, international students must demonstrate English proficiency if English was not the language of instruction during their secondary education. This can be done through the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test, with competitive scores being above 100 on the TOEFL, 7.5 or higher on the IELTS, and 130 or more on the DET.
In Fall 2024, UCLA admitted only 6% of international freshman applicants, compared to an overall freshman acceptance rate of 8%. This data indicates that it is more challenging for international students to gain admission to UCLA. However, one source mentions that they got into UCLA as an international student, and they knew 10+ friends from the same country who also got accepted. This suggests that while UCLA is selective, it is not impossible for international students to gain admission.
One way to improve the chances of acceptance for international students is through transfer admissions. UCLA gives preference to transfer students from California community colleges, and historically, three out of four admitted international transfers were from a California community college. University Bridge, for example, offers a pathway program where students study at UBridge @ Santa Monica College for the first two undergraduate years and receive guidance from a private advisor to help them gain admission to UCLA. In the past three years, 34% of UBridge transfer applicants to UCLA were accepted, making them six times more likely to be admitted than international freshman applicants.
It is important to note that UCLA does not award scholarships or financial aid to undergraduate international students. Therefore, international students must prove they have sufficient funds to cover their educational and living expenses, which can be significant. For example, students admitted for Fall 2025 will need a minimum of about $80,739, with an additional $5,000 recommended for personal expenses, contingencies, and summer expenses.
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English proficiency requirements
UCLA has specific English proficiency requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements vary depending on whether the student is applying for an undergraduate or graduate program.
Undergraduate English Proficiency Requirements
If you have completed all or some of your high school or secondary school education in a country where English was not the language of instruction, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency if you have had less than three years of instruction in English.
To demonstrate English language proficiency, UCLA accepts the following exams:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): A competitive score above 100 (with sub-scores above 24) is considered ideal.
- International English Language Testing Service (IELTS): A score of 7.5 or above is preferred.
- Duolingo English Test (DET): A score of 130 or higher is recommended.
It is important to note that while official test scores are not required to be submitted with the application, accurate self-reporting of all test information is necessary on the application site by a specified deadline.
Additionally, if you are admitted to UCLA and your native language is not English, you may be required to take the UCLA English-as-a-Second-Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) before starting your program. If your ESLPE score indicates a weakness in English, your program may include special English courses for international students. If your English proficiency is deemed seriously deficient, you will need to improve your English skills before beginning your studies at UCLA.
Graduate English Proficiency Requirements
For graduate programs, there are two main ways to demonstrate English proficiency:
- Prior Education: A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university located in a country where English is the primary spoken language of daily life and the language of instruction (e.g., Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom). At least two years of full-time study at such an institution may also be accepted.
- Exam Score: If you did not receive your degree in an English-speaking country, you must certify your English proficiency through one of the accepted exams. UCLA accepts the following exams for graduate applicants:
- TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 28 on the Speaking Subsection is required.
- IELTS Academic: A minimum score of 8.5 on the Speaking Band (not the overall band score) is necessary.
- UCLA's Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP): This exam specifically assesses the spoken English skills of international students applying for teaching assistantships.
It is important to note that some graduate programs may have higher overall scores or minimum section score requirements. Therefore, it is recommended to check the specific testing requirements for your desired program. Additionally, TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic scores are considered valid for only two years.
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Financial requirements for international students
UCLA does not provide funding to international undergraduate students in the form of scholarships, financial aid, student loans, or grants. International students must prove that they have sufficient funds available to pay for their educational and living expenses. For example, students admitted to Fall Quarter 2025 will need a minimum of about $80,739 (with an additional $5,000 recommended for additional personal expenses, contingencies, and summer expenses). Students must provide a bank statement before enrolling in classes to demonstrate this.
International students can become an RA for free housing and a meal plan, but the tuition itself (around $15,500 USD per quarter, or $50,000 USD per year) cannot be deducted. One option is to take private loans or borrow from family members.
UCLA does offer an array of financial support mechanisms for graduate students, including awards, grants, traineeships, fellowships, scholarships, and employment opportunities. UCLA also provides comprehensive financial aid counseling and resources to assist students and families in understanding their options and planning effectively for their education expenses. This includes offering payment plans, emergency loans, and guidance on external scholarships and funding sources.
In addition to financial requirements, international students at UCLA must demonstrate English language proficiency. If all of their high school/secondary school education was completed in English, they are considered proficient. Otherwise, they will be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test. UCLA may also require students to take the English-as-a-Second-Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) before the term in which they enter UCLA.
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Transfer pathways for international applicants
UCLA is a dream university for many students, but it's tough to get admitted, especially for international students. In 2024, the acceptance rate for international freshmen applicants was only 6%, and it's even lower for those seeking a second bachelor's degree or with more than 130 quarter units of transferable university work.
International applicants can apply to UCLA as transfer students, and this pathway has proven successful for many. UCLA gives preference to students transferring from California community colleges, and historically, three out of four admitted international transfers were attending a California community college when they applied.
One option for international students is to enrol in University Bridge @ Santa Monica College for their first two undergraduate years. University Bridge provides guidance and support to help students gain admission to their dream university, and 34% of UBridge transfer applicants to UCLA were accepted in recent years.
To apply as a transfer student, you must meet the following criteria:
- You have graduated from high school.
- You have completed college-level coursework amounting to 90-130 quarter (60-90 semester) units of credit in a regular session at any college or university since graduating.
Transfer applicants must apply to a specific major and complete lower-division preparation coursework for their intended major before transferring. UCLA requires all transfer students to declare their major by the time they reach junior standing.
Transfer applicants should aim for a competitive GPA of above 3.5 and complete most or all major preparatory courses. UCLA admits transfer students for the fall quarter only and gives the highest priority to applicants from California community colleges and other UC campuses.
If your native language is not English, you may be required to take UCLA's English-as-a-Second-Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) before starting your program. If your score indicates a weakness in English, your program may include special English courses for international students.
To demonstrate English proficiency for your application, you may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET). A competitive score is above 100 with sub-scores above 24 on the TOEFL, 7.5 or above on the IELTS, or 130 or higher on the DET.
In addition to academic preparation, UCLA also considers personal criteria and your answers to personal insight questions during the application review process.
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UCLA's resources for international students
UCLA is a dream university for many students, and it's easy to see why. Located in Los Angeles, UCLA is a diverse campus community with a wide variety of experiences and backgrounds that its students bring to the campus community. Each year, thousands of international students choose UCLA, with admitted students coming from nearly 90 countries. UCLA offers world-class academic opportunities with accomplished faculty and extensive resources. The university also offers a range of dedicated programs and services to ensure that international students get the most out of their education abroad.
Dashew Center
The UCLA Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars is the central hub for resources, support, and advocacy for international students and scholars. The center provides visa services and support to students and scholars prior to their arrival and throughout their time at UCLA. It also enhances the UCLA experience for international students through inclusive and multicultural programs, student leadership roles, and language advancement programs. The Dashew Center aims to serve the entire UCLA community by promoting the values of creating global connections, international understanding, and cultural sensitivity.
Orientation
The first step for international undergraduate students is the New Student Orientation. International students can opt for a session in September to minimize travel. The orientation process includes an International Student Orientation and a Post-Arrival Status Check-In.
English Proficiency
If your native language is not English, you may be required to take the English-as-a-Second-Language Proficiency Examination (ESLPE) before starting at UCLA. If your score indicates a weakness in English, several terms of your program may include special courses in English for international students. If your score shows serious deficiency, you'll need to gain proficiency in English before starting your studies at UCLA.
Financial Aid
International students must prove that they have sufficient funds to pay for their educational and living expenses. For example, students admitted to Fall Quarter 2025 will need a minimum of about $80,739 (with an additional $5,000 recommended for additional personal expenses, contingencies, and summer expenses). UCLA does not award scholarships or financial aid to undergraduate students who are not US citizens or permanent residents.
Health and Wellness
UCLA offers many psychological, wellness, and counseling services for its international community. The UCLA Health Center and Recreation & Wellness programs provide health and wellness resources available to students and scholars on campus.
Housing
UCLA provides housing options and support for its international students.
Transfer Pathways
UCLA gives preference to students transferring from California community colleges, including international students. University Bridge is a transfer pathway that helps improve students' odds of gaining admission to UCLA. Through this program, students study at UBridge @ Santa Monica College for the first two undergraduate years, receiving help from a private advisor to gain admission to their dream university. 34% of UBridge transfer applicants to UCLA were accepted in the past three years.
Overall, UCLA offers a comprehensive range of resources and support services to ensure that international students have a positive and enriching experience during their time at the university.
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Frequently asked questions
UCLA is a very competitive school with a low acceptance rate for international students. In 2024, only 6% of international freshman applicants were accepted.
All students, including international students, must have health insurance. Additionally, international students must demonstrate English proficiency if English was not the language of instruction in their previous education. This can be done by taking the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
International students must prove that they have sufficient funds to cover their educational and living expenses. Additionally, UCLA gives preference to transfer applicants from California community colleges, so that may improve your chances of admission.
