University of California-Los Angeles
The Vibe Check
UCLA buzzes with relentless energy, a blend of academic intensity and laid-back California cool. It feels like a vibrant ecosystem where future leaders and innovators collaborate under the eternal sunshine of Westwood. The campus pulses with school spirit, from roaring sports events to quiet study sessions in the iconic Powell Library.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UCLA is an academic powerhouse, consistently ranked among the top public universities with renowned programs in social sciences, engineering, and life sciences. Students engage in rigorous, research-driven learning with unparalleled access to faculty who are leaders in their fields. The university's location provides unique opportunities for partnerships with nearby tech giants, entertainment studios, and medical centers.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Los Angeles
Student life is a dynamic mix of campus activism, beach trips to Santa Monica or Venice, and exploring LA's endless food scene. On weekends, you might find students hiking in Runyon Canyon, catching a show in Hollywood, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife and cultural festivals that define Los Angeles.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($82,511):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus is generally considered safe with a robust campus police presence and well-lit pathways. However, students should remain aware of their surroundings, as the surrounding Westwood and Los Angeles area requires standard urban caution, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-class academics and research opportunities at a top-ranked public university.
- ✓ Incredible location in Los Angeles, offering access to internships, entertainment, and diverse culture.
- ✓ Strong school spirit and vibrant campus life with over 1,000 student clubs.
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates, indicating strong student support and satisfaction.
Cons
- ✗ Extremely competitive admissions with an acceptance rate below 9%.
- ✗ Large class sizes in introductory courses, which can feel impersonal.
- ✗ High cost of living in Los Angeles, even with financial aid.
- ✗ Urban setting can be overwhelming for students seeking a traditional college town experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UCLA is renowned for its excellence across a wide range of disciplines, particularly in the social sciences, life sciences, engineering, and film and television. It is a global leader in research, with top-ranked programs and significant contributions to fields like psychology, neuroscience, and engineering. Beyond academics, UCLA is famous for its powerhouse athletic programs, vibrant campus life, and its iconic location in the heart of Los Angeles.
Yes, UCLA is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of just 8.73%. This means admission is highly competitive, and successful applicants typically have outstanding grades, strong test scores (though currently test-optional), and compelling extracurricular achievements. The university also has a very high retention rate of 96.8%, indicating that once enrolled, students are highly satisfied and successful.
Campus life at UCLA is energetic and diverse, with a student body of over 33,000. Students are deeply engaged in a mix of academics, athletics, and social activities, with over 1,000 clubs and organizations to choose from. The campus itself is beautiful and active, with students frequently seen studying on the lawns, participating in events at the student center, or cheering on the Bruins at sporting events.
For in-state students, UCLA is widely considered an excellent value, with a low net price and a median 10-year earnings of $82,511. The prestige of the degree, combined with the powerful alumni network and proximity to major industries, provides a strong return on investment. For out-of-state students, the cost is significantly higher, but the university's reputation and career outcomes can still make it a worthwhile investment for those pursuing high-earning fields.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1919
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 34,398
- In-State Tuition $13,747
- Out-of-State $44,524
- Zip Code 90095
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, UCLA offers an exceptional return on investment with a relatively low net price and a powerful degree that leads to high median earnings. Out-of-state tuition is a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of $82,511 and strong alumni network can justify the cost for many. The university's robust financial aid programs, including for middle-class families, help make it accessible to a wide range of students.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.