La Jolla, CA · Admissions

University of California, San Diego

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

University of California, San Diego has a 28.4% acceptance rate, making it very selectivecompetitive, but within reach for strong applicants. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

28.4%
Acceptance rate
SAT (mid 50%)
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-blind
Testing

How hard is it to get into University of California, San Diego?

With a 28.4% acceptance rate, University of California, San Diego is very selectivecompetitive, but within reach for strong applicants. It enrolls roughly 34,955 undergraduates (suburban setting) in La Jolla, CA. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

  • Testing policy: Test-blind. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at University of California, San Diego's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $44,062 out-of-state ($14,312 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Computer Science · Biological Sciences · Engineering · Cognitive Science

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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University of California, San Diego admissions FAQ

What is University of California, San Diego's acceptance rate?
University of California, San Diego's acceptance rate is 28.4%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.
Is University of California, San Diego test-optional?
University of California, San Diego's current testing policy is: Test-blind. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of California, San Diego’s official admissions site.