uc san diego supplemental essays

First-year requirements

• Subject requirement (A-G)
• GPA requirement
• Admission by exception
• English language proficiency
• UC graduation requirements

Additional information for

• California residents
• Out-of-state students
• Home-schooled students

Transfer requirements

• Understanding UC transfer
• Preparing to transfer
• UC transfer programs
• Transfer planning tools

International applicants

• Applying for admission
• English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Passports & visas
• Living accommodations
• Health care & insurance

AP & Exam credits

Applying as a first year

• Filling out the application
• Dates & deadlines

Personal insight questions

• How applications are reviewed
• After you apply

Applying as a transfer

Types of aid

• Grants & scholarships
• Jobs & work-study
• California DREAM Loan Program
• Middle Class Scholarship Program
• Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan
• Native American Opportunity Plan  
• Who can get financial aid
• How aid works
• Estimate your aid

Apply for financial aid

• Tuition & cost of attendance
• Glossary & resources
• Santa Barbara
• Campus program & support services
• Check majors
• Freshman admit data
• Transfer admit data
• Native American Opportunity Plan
• Apply for aid
• You will have 8 questions to choose from. You must respond to only 4 of the 8 questions.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.
• Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you. However, you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.

Keep in mind

• All questions are equal. All are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
• There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions. It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.  
• Use the additional comments field if there are issues you'd like to address that you didn't have the opportunity to discuss elsewhere on the application. This shouldn't be an essay, but rather a place to note unusual circumstances or anything that might be unclear in other parts of the application. 

Questions & guidance

Remember, the personal insight questions are just that—personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help. The important thing is expressing who you are, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC. 

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities?

Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn't necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?

How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there is a talent or skill that you're proud of, this is the time to share it.You don't necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?

Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that's geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you; just to name a few.

If you choose to write about educational barriers you've faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you've faced and what you've learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?

If you're currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family? 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider:  Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can't get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs and what you have gained from your involvement.

Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?

Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider:  If there's anything you want us to know about you but didn't find a question or place in the application to tell us, now's your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?

From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don't be afraid to brag a little.

Writing tips

Start early..

Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions.

Write persuasively.

Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make.

Use “I” statements.

Talk about yourself so that we can get to know your personality, talents, accomplishments and potential for success on a UC campus. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses.

Proofread and edit.

Although you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling or sentence structure, you should proofread your work and make sure your writing is clear. Grammatical and spelling errors can be distracting to the reader and get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate.

Solicit feedback.

Your answers should reflect your own ideas and be written by you alone, but others — family, teachers and friends can offer valuable suggestions. Ask advice of whomever you like, but do not plagiarize from sources in print or online and do not use anyone's words, published or unpublished, but your own.

Copy and paste.

Once you are satisfied with your answers, save them in plain text (ASCII) and paste them into the space provided in the application. Proofread once more to make sure no odd characters or line breaks have appeared.

This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application. Your responses can only add value to the application. An admission decision will not be based on this section alone.

Need more help?

Download our worksheets:

• English [PDF]
• Spanish [PDF]

How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essays

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/29/24

If you're looking for a guide on how to ace the University of San Diego supplemental essays, you are in the right place .

Each year, many students try to get into the University of California, San Diego. Of every 100 applicants, 30 are admitted, indicating a 30% acceptance rate. As you prepare to meet UCSD's SAT/ACT and GPA requirements, you should also make adequate preparations for acing its supplemental essays. 

UC San Diego is known for training students in science and technology research programs. As a student, aside from your major coursework, you learn critical skills for the future. 

Graduates from UCSD are leaders in business, nonprofits, and government organizations across the globe. With a well-crafted supplemental essay, you are on your way to becoming the best of the best. 

The secret to writing a compelling supplemental essay is understanding the question. All your preparations, including reading this blog, will help you explain and provide winning answers to each prompt. This blog maps out all the tips for crafting outstanding supplemental essays for your application to UCSD.

University of San Diego Personal Insight Questions 2023-2024

How many USCD essay prompts must you write for the University of San Diego ? UCSD provides eight Personal Insight Questions. From these eight, you will need to answer four questions. Here are the eight questions to choose from:

“ Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.”

“Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistic, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.”

“ What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?”

“ Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.”

“ Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?”

“ Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.”

“ What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?”

“ Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?”

How to Write Each Essay Prompt For the University of San Diego

After reading these questions, they may seem difficult. Do not worry; you can have the best answers among all applicants. Here’s how to write UCSD supplemental essays directly, captivatingly, and compellingly.

How to Write University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #1:

The first question asks you to describe your leadership experience. They want you to focus on that role where you made the most impact and not just make a list of all your previous experiences.  

A leader has influence, strong values, and the ability to mentor, correct, and assist people needing help. Being a leader could be being the chairman of a committee or mentoring a student in junior year. Whether you have actively taken up a leadership role, here are tips on answering question #1. 

1. Pick a Role : We believe every student has had a leadership role at one point or the other. So, write up a list of each role, from the role of a president to the role of a group leader. Then, pick a role that allows you to tell an engaging story.

2. Be Authentic : Think deeply before answering this question. If you took up a role, consider the impacts you made there. Think about how people keep referring to your role as a leader. It could be that you were able to set up a reading club, or you helped a junior study to pass a course. 

3. Be Detailed : Take your time to tell this story in a way that catches your attention. You can mention the name of the book club or the junior you helped. Start by describing your thoughts about the idea and the steps you took until a delivery point. Admissions officers' interest lies in why you took up the role and the lessons learned. 

How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #2 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #2:

This question aims to bring out your creativity. To write a stellar essay , ask yourself these questions. Do I have a creative skill that I cherish? UCSD explores your creative side. In your essay, you will describe your creativity and how you use this skill to solve problems.

1. Know That You Have a Creative Side : This UCSD essay prompt needs you to be creative, so you should have creative skills. They need to know that this applicant is not only academia-oriented. So, think about your singing, painting, sewing, baking, or ballet skills. Note that this can boost your chances at the admission office, especially if your academic requirements are not strong enough.

2. Be Creative : Prompt #2 does not just ask you to discuss your creative side. It seeks to know how original and artistic your skill is and how it can be problem-solving. Being creative here involves writing about how you started baking every Sunday to keep the family together. Or how you go sculpting to let your emotions out. 

3. Bring your creativity into your major: If your major is engineering, you can describe how you choose to paint during your leisure time. Go further by describing how your classmates joined you in painting as a time away from academics. This way, you have revealed more about yourself besides your grades. 

How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #3 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #3: The keywords here are talent/skill, develop and demonstrate. There's a chance for you to explain the places you've been to as a result of your talent. If you are an athlete, a songwriter, a performer, or a teacher, you can let your talent shine in this essay. How do you go about it?

1. Think About your Strengths : If you have any of the talents listed above, pick one of them for this question. But if you don't, there's no cause for fear. One who isn't an athlete can be a good organizer. Review your experience or ask family and friends to assess your strengths and skills. 

2. Share your Skill Development : Begin your essay as a story describing the training that helped hone your talent. You can talk about the different clubs you joined as a junior, your consistent role as a teacher in church, or how you always made your sibling laugh while growing up. 

And if you are a strong member of the debate club, describe how your skills began as an outspoken child of the family.

3. Share your Skill Demonstration : Now, you can explain your many awards in the award section. Your skill as the best winger made your soccer team the reigning champion for years. Or how you organized several events as a junior in high school and the many awards you bagged for the debate club.

How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #4 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #4: A significant educational opportunity is not just the high schools you attended. It is an educational platform that increases your experience as a student. Opportunities like advanced courses, a summer enrichment program, a debate club, and an unpaid internship with a physician, to name a few. 

Then, what were the barriers during these programs? It could be inadequate resources or physical or health challenges. How do you answer this question?

1. Showcase a Challenge not on Your UC Application : A student who previously had a learning disability will shine in this prompt. Remember that you have overcome this challenge, so you didn't indicate it in your personal data.

2. Be Vulnerable : It may sound unnecessary, but it will increase your chances. Explain how this challenge hindered your progress at the start of the educational opportunity. For example, your program may have been extended due to this barrier. 

3. Describe Your Success : Delve into how you overcame the challenge. Did you have to see a counselor? Did you join small study groups? Write about the specific events that led to your successful completion of such a program and how they helped shape who you are today.

How to Write University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #5 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #5: If you are familiar with supplemental essays , you will realize that most schools want to see your ability to handle challenges. The admission office wants to see this challenge and your approach to solving it. Here are tips for writing prompt #5 in the best way possible.

1. Be Real : To make a point, don't conjure a challenge you didn't go through. Choose the most significant challenge you experienced, even if it seems too minute. Every student will go through unexpected challenges. So, show UCSD that you will not run in the face of challenges.

2. Be Direct : While you may want to stick to multiple challenges, ensure you stick to one. Then, explain the one as much as you can. Describe how it affected you, given specific examples. 

3. Show Your Growth : You may lose some points if you fail to include your growth process during this challenge. Write about how you were able to come out of the situation stronger. Your answer should prove that if you come to any challenge, you will be ready to face it head-on and overcome it.

How to Write University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #6 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #6: This question begins with the keyword "academic" subject. This means you must not write about the novels you read during your leisure or the movies you discover. You may write about the textile creation course that inspired you as a medical student. 

The next step is to write about how you took the course and expanded your knowledge. Here's how to write this essay.

1. Show your Decision-making Ability : Many students can desire to pursue an interest, but it stays and remains an idea for a long time. But for you, you can show UCSD that you can decide to pursue your interests via this answer. By joining the literature summer class, you can pursue your literary interest as a maths student. 

2. Share the Lessons Learnt: Explain how your interest in this subject broadens your thinking process. For example, reading a book on history during a literature class informs you about things you were not privy to before. You can also talk about how this subject will spur you to join the creative writing club at UCSD. 

3. Use Specific Examples: Don’t overshare in one short UCSD essay prompt. If you pursue more than one academic subject, stick to one. You can showcase your decisiveness experience with one point. Pick one point and explain, staying within the word limit.

How to Write University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #7 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #7: This prompt seeks to discover how you contribute to your environment. Your interaction with your present school, home, or community shows what kind of future community member you’ll be. The admission officers expect to see your thoughtfulness, abilities, and impact during your contributions. So here are tips before you write.

1. Don't Exaggerate Your Role : While this prompt asks you to define your contributions, avoid bragging about it. Admission officers want to know about your workability. However, they also want to see that you are humble while working for the people. So, be sure to give a sincere description in this essay.

2. Describe your Inspiration : What spurred you to contribute? Was it a lingering problem in the street? Or a call for volunteers? This description shows that you have high emotional intelligence, boosting your chances of getting into UCSD. Also, you can write about how your inspiration increased your exposure to different areas in society.

3. Show your Team Spirit : This prompt is an opportunity to showcase your ability as a string team member, especially if you collaborated with others. For example, if you joined your school sanitation team to clean the dining weekly, that displays teamwork. 

How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essay #8 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #8: This prompt is an open question that requires any kind of answer. Hold on for a second. Think about it. What could be missing in the previous seven prompts? 

You can go ahead if you realize you have something to share that isn't covered in previous questions. Aim to answer the question, 'What makes you an excellent choice for UCSD?'

1. Share What Makes You Stand Out: This question is not an avenue to write about other extracurricular activities or events that are not significant to the school. It should focus on exceptional attributes and events. You can talk about a business you started during the holidays. 

2. Be Honest : The prompt is another opportunity to sell yourself. However, if you have done this in the previous questions, you need not answer prompt #8. So, don't be tempted to include information that isn't yours. 

Some ideas include writing about how you develop the ability to work under pressure, even as a student, or your ability to stay focused despite distractions in some study settings. 

Examples of the University of San Diego Supplemental Essays that Worked

After extensive explanations, the best next thing is to investigate practice examples of these essays. These essay samples were written by successful applicants at the University of San Diego. Let's go!

Sample Essay #1

Prompt : " Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time ."

Take a look at this sample.

"It was her fourth honor council. I sat on the committee for her third, which granted her one last chance. It was mid-April–just weeks before graduation, and she would walk across the stage with her diploma. The third honor council debated for hours about the best course of action. 

No student had ever been given four chances without separation from the school. One attendee argued for her future in retaining her college admission, while another suggested her negative impacts on the school community. After hours of debate, the honor council was split. It was left up to just a few of her peers to decide her fate. 

We reviewed her previous violation, and it appeared: “Any future violations of school rules will result in separation from the school”. I believe strongly in seeking to understand a person’s circumstances before drawing judgment, and I think there is great value in the second chance. Unfortunately, this student could not take responsibility after failing on multiple counts, and we eventually decided it would be best for the community if she separated from the school. She was allowed to receive her diploma with successful completion of online classes.

Hard decisions like these have been a driving factor in shaping my character and values caring for the greater good of the community. I faced discrimination as a person with learning differences, which prompted me to solve issues of inequity through leadership positions. I give back to the community by leading school discussions about acts of hate and aggression that happen on and off campus, and I strive to create diversity and inclusion by attracting new people to Norwich. 

I attempt to create a well-rounded incoming class of freshmen that will better the community and help to solve issues of discrimination and a lack of diversity on campus. Together, my roles have heavily aligned with my values of creating diversity and solving a wide range of issues on campus."

Why Essay #1 Worked

The first paragraph shows the author's role as a council member. This essay works because the author demonstrates their leadership skills and highlights an event expressing their qualities and characteristics.

Sample Essay #2

Prompt : " Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistic, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side."

An example of how you can showcase your creativity goes thus:

"I believe in the strength of words because I know the power that just one can hold. Most of the time, it begins like that: I hear a word in a song that isn’t there, and an idea blooms. That word gives the sentence new meaning and great potential blossoms. So, I use that new phrase to write a new song.

Sometimes, the title of a book or a phrase in it takes me to the same place of raw creativity and expressive fervor. Something specific - a certain je ne sais quoi in my frontal cortex, which has long been dubbed creativity’s hub - ignites a thought in me that allows me to transform a creative piece of work into one of my own, something original, something new. 

The main way I’m able to explore this creative metamorphosis is through the transportability I experience with books. I write poems for the strength of Briseis and compose songs for the endless halls Piranesi roams, not to mention for the nostalgic memories of Tsukuru Tasaki. All these characters, and more, inspire me with their stories. I can write based on things I may never face as well as ubiquitously occurring feelings I haven’t yet felt because I can relate to them by reading about them in books written by others who have experienced those things (well, most of them).

It’s as if someone has created a cover-to-cover world and allowed me to enter it, a world which once I finish its final page, belongs once again to the author or musician - to his or her own experiences and feelings - but a world that I, too, can create, one that feels like home to me. I can write as if I’ve lived under the sea and dive into a wide range of themes in a limitless, fantasy-like way. 

Being able to write in this fashion gives me complete freedom on the angle I wish to explore with each theme and gives each of these themes a sense of universality and relatability to the reader or at least that’s the goal."

Why Essay # 2 Worked

You can see this author's creativity in creating lyrics from different inspirations, including a book title. They can create original, unique poems and songs from everything and anything in this diverse world. It also describes their problem-solving skill, as the original music will solve another musician's problem.

Sample Essay #3

Prompt : " What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?"

This author carefully explains their greatest skill in the sample below.

"When it comes to rooms, I’m a “reader”. I find reading books helps me improve my ability to read rooms because books help me understand events and individuals outside of my day-to-day experiences. Yet, this skill can also be problematic. For example, when I got my wisdom teeth pulled, I read “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”. 

With my face all puffy, I predicted two of the twist endings by pages 100-120 and found myself thoroughly disappointed (and somewhat proud) that they came to fruition simultaneously. Sometimes, it sucks to be right with this superpower.

Another activity that has augmented my talent for reading a room is traveling. Traveling improves my worldliness, which undoubtedly plays a key role in reading different people and situations. While living in Columbia, I found reading rooms initially difficult and thus felt vulnerable, as if my semi-psychic superpowers had been stripped away. But over time, I sensed my ability returning and even broadening as I ventured further outside my comfort bubble. 

Traveling within and outside Latin America has exposed me to multifarious cultures and peoples, which have each, in their own way, bolstered my ability to read the rooms around me into an even more potent superpower of being able to read rooms around the world.

Not only did I travel to others around the world to expand my horizons, but they also “traveled” to me via the Elders Support Initiative, a volunteer group directed toward helping senior citizens digitally during coronavirus. Conversing at length with such seasoned seniors helped grant me the perspective to understand them despite our differing worldviews from disparate epochs. Time allowed me to eventually read them and the (Zoom) room just the same, which made leading and organizing activities they’d like far easier and more successful.

Last but certainly not least, especially in today’s sociopolitical climate, reading rooms allow me to resolve conflicts and mediate problems between parties. However, my favorite part of being a “reader” is being the one to whom my friends always vent and with whom they share exciting news because they feel heard and understood by me."(351 words)

Why Essay #3 Worked

This essay works because of the engaging story about a room reading skill. It embodies communication skills, conflict mediation, and of course, reading skills. This author displays the development and three practical instances where this skill was useful. Any admission officer will read and connect with the author before the end. 

Sample Essay #4

Prompt : " Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced."

Check out this author's essay sample.

"The test covered L’Hopital’s Rule and Related Rates – something I knew I’d need extra time to complete. But there I was. Waiting in the classroom patiently with everyone else for Dr Robert to hand out the Honors Precalculus exam. I had been given a written contract for accommodations, but he didn’t care. 

This was the third time this had happened. I spoke to him about the extended time that I was entitled to the test before, yet here I was- again- in the same room as everyone else without any accommodations. Then he handed me my paper. I scribbled down my name as fast as possible to give myself enough time to maybe get two-thirds into the test without him grabbing it from my hands. 

I flew through L’Hopital’s rule through the constant sneezing, sniffing, and occasional cough from my neighbors. Did the person sitting next to me have COVID? It didn’t matter. What mattered was getting through as much math as possible within the time I was allowed. After finishing the first half, I looked over to my left– only to see the student next to me flipping to the last page of the test. 

Just as I started on the second half, I heard the disappointing “5 Minutes Left”. I quickly jotted down anything that came to mind for the remaining few minutes. I wrote as fast as possible until he came around and grabbed the test from underneath my pencil. I stood up and left the class full of frustration and anger. I found my friends, who had finished theirs 30 minutes early. I listened in frustration as they exclaimed, “That was the easiest test I’ve ever taken!”. 

I ran furiously to swim practice, thinking about the injustice I had faced – just like every test before. The next day in class, he handed back our tests. “What did you get?” “How did you do?” “98 – easiest test ever” “96 – I didn’t even study!”. Then he handed mine back. It was face down. I stared in agony at the back page with a large red “X” on the unattempted problems. 

I flipped it over, which only made it worse: “78%”. Nearly everything I had attempted on the test was correct. The remaining 22% were all unattempted problems. This happened many more times – “86”, “79”, “80”, “Did you attempt this problem?”, “Why didn’t you try this one?”. 

The end of the semester eventually came, and grades were finalized. “B+”. Nearly every problem I attempted on any quiz or test was mathematically correct, but I had run out of time on almost every assessment. It didn’t matter how good I truly was at Precalculus. What mattered to the teacher was what was down on the paper – an incomplete test. 

The frustration over the discrimination I faced in the classroom got so intense that I decided to write Dr. Robert one final email to let him know just how much his injustice in the classroom affected me. Knowing there was nothing I could do to help my grade, I furiously typed out every article about the ADA he violated and how unfair this truly was to me. My advocacy not only for myself, but for all students with learning differences made a big difference in the classroom, and in the second semester, I faced much less discrimination." (555 words)

Why Essay #4 Worked

In this sample, the author describes a challenge quite common among students in the university. After stating the barrier, they describe the pain, shame, and discrimination this barrier had caused. It works because it shows their ability to persist till there's a solution in the face of challenges.

Sample Essay #6

Prompt : " Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom."

Here's what this author has to say about pursuing an academic interest. 

"The assignment was to scrape and organize many DNA sequences from a database. It was late on a Sunday night, and I hadn’t started the assignment. I opened my laptop and saw the article I had been reading earlier that day. “Coronavirus has now killed 250 thousand people in the United States”. I moved it aside to start the project that was due the next morning. 

After spending hours finding creative ways to scrape the data I desired, I began debugging. I spent another hour tirelessly fixing problems that wouldn't allow my code to run. I turned back to the web to see if Stack Overflow had the answers to my questions. Then I saw it again: “Coronavirus has now killed 250 thousand people in the United States”. 

I put it aside but pondered how I could apply web scraping to a real-world crisis like COVID-19. I began debugging but was overtaken by my curiosity. I diverged from my school project and began writing code to scrape a COVID database and organize it into data frames. Eventually, after scraping tons of data, I glanced at the clock: 4 AM, and I still had not finished my assignment. 

It was time to get to work. I drudged through another hour of debugging and eventually finished. I glanced outside my window and saw bright beams of sunlight poking through the dense fog on the mountains, so I quickly grabbed my things and ran out the door for school.

 I was energized by the real-world application of what I was learning in my directed study, “Using Python for Research.” It inspired me to continue taking courses in addition to those offered at my school, such as “Analyzing Data with R” and “Multivariable Calculus.”

Why Essay #6 Worked off

Most schools offer different courses outside your major course. In this essay, the author, a medical student studying DNA sequences, chose to pursue an interest in programming languages. This essay sample works because the author learned and used her newly acquired knowledge to solve a problem.

Sample Essay #7

Prompt : " What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?"

Here's how to write UCSD essay Prompt #7.

"Whatever your expectations of my musical talents are, just throw them on the ground,” said my brother as he prepared to play the bagpipes for Treasure Talent Hunt, our school’s talent competition. Although I admit my brother’s bagpipe playing wasn’t entirely musical, hearing him make the entire student body laugh was music to my ears after two and a half years without social activities. 

For me, school is more than didactic education. It’s a community, and my goal is always to increase camaraderie and boost our collective spirit.  Last year, we returned to in-person classes, but the only social event we held was the prom. My disappointment in the lack of extracurricular events moved me to make a change. 

As student body vice president, my mission has been to increase the number of programs my school sponsors. I enjoy gathering feedback and ideas from my schoolmates and bringing them to the council to discuss, but generating ideas is only part of the fun. Last year was chaotic, as everyone on the student council performed the same task regardless of their position. To offer more events, I felt it was important for the student council members to have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, so I set expectations. 

In planning the Treasure Talent Hunt. I delegated to the spirit coordinators the registration of participants and the organization of the events, and to the class representatives the purchase of the drinks and snacks, which the treasurer reimbursed. The whole school turned out for the event and cheered on their performing classmates. Everybody cheered for the eight students performing at Treasure Talent Hunt.

In my first few months leading the student council, I also organized seven new social events, including homecoming festivities and spirit week, which were met with equal enthusiasm from the student population. I slowly noticed a palpable change in the camaraderie among my schoolmates, as they now have more opportunities to reconnect with each other. While my brother might not expect much from his music, I expect to rebuild our school community one event at a time.

Why Essay #7 Worked

The author discusses her participation in bringing back a talent competition, an extracurricular activity. They define how the enthusiasm and cheering spirit was brought back to school via her initiative. The admissions officers reading this essay will likely stand for this student before the university.

Get More Sample Essays Here!

These sample essays have helped broaden your thoughts, no doubt. If you want more of these, check out our extensive essay database.

FAQs: How to Write the University of San Diego Supplemental Essays 

Perhaps we couldn't answer all your questions, here are some common questions regarding the University of San Diego supplemental essays.

1. How Important Are Essays For the University of San Diego? 

Essays are very important in the University of San Diego's application process. They allow you to showcase your personality, experiences, and skills, helping the admissions committee understand you beyond your academic achievements.

2. How Many Essays Does UCSD Require?

You need to write four UCSD essays. Generally, UCSD provides eight personal insight essays as part of the University of California application.

3. Which UC Essay Should I Write?

Choose the questions that allow you to provide unique answers best. Your essay should resonate with your story and provide a comprehensive picture of yourself.

4. How Long Should University of San Diego Essays Be?

Your University of San Diego essay should not exceed 350 words. Remember to adhere to each limit, as adhering demonstrates your ability to follow instructions and effectively communicate your ideas.

Final Thoughts

When you started reading this guide, the prompts may have seemed daunting. By now, you should see each essay prompt as an opportunity to demonstrate your personality beyond your grades and test scores.

Take your time to craft, edit, and write compelling University of San Diego supplemental essays today. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Applying to uc san diego.

We are planning for fall 2022 teaching to be primarily in-person with normal classroom occupancy in accordance with public health guidelines. For more information, visit Return to Learn .

UC San Diego enrolls for Fall term only. Using the UC application, apply the year before you plan to enroll. The UC Application opens on August 1 and applications may be submitted October 1 - November 30. Review the First-Year Student Application Timeline and Transfer Student Application Timeline for more details.

UC San Diego is a competitive university. Admitted students always exceed the minimum requirements for admission. Learn more about the average student profile for First-Year Admitted Students and Transfer Admitted Students .

Academics & Majors

We offer 150+ undergraduate majors in nearly every subject you can imagine. Review our undergraduate majors and decide which is best for you.

First-Year students may be admitted to UC San Diego as undeclared. Transfer students must be admitted into a major and may not be admitted as undeclared. Transfer students applying to select majors visit the Transfer Major Preparation page for information on the preparatory coursework that must be completed to be considered for admission to the major.

If you need help choosing a major, speak with an academic counselor to assist you in selecting a major that matches your interests.

Selective majors are majors with limited enrollment. If you are applying to a selective major , we strongly suggest that you submit an alternate major on your application and that your alternate major not be selective. If you are not admitted into a selective major, you may be admitted to your alternate major. First-Year students not admitted into a selective major may be admitted as undeclared. Transfer students are not admitted as undeclared and will not be admitted to the university if they are not admitted to a major.

UC San Diego’s small colleges help you thrive in a welcoming community. Students have access to personalized advising, support services and leadership opportunities through their college while enjoying the advantages of a large Tier 1 research institution. Each college has their own philosophy and traditions, as well as their own General Education requirements. Learn more about our colleges and the college system .

Applicants to UC San Diego rank the colleges on the UC Application. We recommend reviewing the colleges when completing your ranking. Students who are offered admission to UC San Diego are assigned a college based on this ranking. College assignment is not based on major choice or academic interest. Students may study any major regardless of college affiliation.

The College to which you are assigned has no impact on your major. College assignment is not based on major. Students may study any major regardless of their college affiliation. No single college is better than any other.

Each UC San Diego undergraduate student belongs to one of our small colleges. On your UC Application, you will be asked to rank your College preferences so that if you are offered admission we can assign your college based on your ranking. We will try our best to assign you to your top picks. However, we cannot guarantee that you will be admitted to your primary College selection.

Cost & Financial Aid

Visit UC San Diego’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Office site to learn more about the Cost of Attendance .

There are many ways to finance your education. At UC San Diego, we believe every student admitted to our institution should be able to attend, regardless of income, and we are committed to providing a comprehensive need-based financial aid program. Learn more about costs and applying for financial aid on our Financial Aid and Scholarships site.

Students from other U.S. states are not eligible for California financial aid. However, UC will help you receive federal financial aid for which you are eligible. International students are not eligible to receive federal or state financial aid. To be granted a visa, international students must prove sufficient funds to meet all expenses for studying in the U.S. Learn more about paying for college and California residency for tuition purposes .

For information on potential scholarships please visit the Financial Aid & Scholarships website.

It is a multi-year plan starting fall 2022 that sets tuition and other mandatory systemwide fees for undergraduates at the time of enrollment, with the expectation that those charges should remain at that same level each following year for the duration of their college careers, up to 6 academic years. For more information on the plan, visit the UC San Diego Financial Aid and Scholarships’ Tuition Stability Plan page or visit the University of California’s Frequently Asked Questions page .

To be eligible for admission to UC San Diego, you must complete UC College preparatory courses (A-G courses) in the specific subjects and earn a "C" grade or better. Complete at least 11 of the 15 courses before your senior year of high school. Learn more about First-Year Application Requirements including subject, scholarship and personal insight questions.

There is no pre-approved course list for schools outside of California. The UC Application will instruct you to list your out of state courses based on the categories for the UC College preparatory (A-G) courses located on our First-Year Application Requirements site .

You must receive a high school diploma, or a General Education Diploma (GED), or a Certificate of Proficiency. You must also meet the requirements listed on the Home-Schooled Students page of the University of California website .

Undergraduate Applicants should not send transcripts prior to an offer of admission as they are not reviewed during the application review process. Applicants will be contacted directly if additional information is required.

First Year Admitted Students that accept the offer of admission are required to submit final official transcripts directly from each institution they attended from grades 9 through 12 by the July 1 postmark deadline. Students attending multiple schools must order an official transcript from each school to be delivered to UC San Diego. Students who attended a high school outside the United States prior to transferring to a high school in the United States must request each school to send a transcript regardless if prior schools are listed on your final transcript. In addition, students must submit college transcripts reflecting any earned college credit regardless if it is transferable or not.

You may send your official transcripts to the University of California San Diego either by mail or electronically through one of our preferred electronic transcript providers.

SEND TRANSCRIPTS BY MAIL: You must order an official transcript from your academic institution which must be sent to us directly in a sealed envelope addressed as follows:

University of California, San Diego – Office of Admissions Attn: Transcripts 9500 Gilman Drive, # 0021 La Jolla, CA 92093-0021

SEND TRANSCRIPTS ELECTRONICALLY through Parchment , a safe and secure method of requesting your official transcript(s). If your school is registered with Parchment to send electronic transcripts, please order transcripts through your school's website or create an account with Parchment directly.

We also accept transcripts electronically through eTranscriptCA, Credential Solutions, Digitary, eScripSafe, Scribbles, SCOIR, and National Student Clearinghouse if your academic institution is registered with these e-transcript vendors. Please check whether your school utilizes these e-transcript vendors to send transcripts and order through your school's transcript ordering process. Make sure you select University of California San Diego in La Jolla, CA as the receiving school if you choose one of these e-transcript vendors. Some vendors may list our school as UC San Diego.

International Students: Please review Required Documents from Schools Outside the United States for information regarding submitting transcripts from academic institutions outside the U.S.

Between June 1 and August 1, we experience very high mail volume and can take several weeks to receive, process and validate official transcripts during the summer. Please monitor the Triton Checklist for receipt of your transcripts under Transcripts & Test Scores. Keep a copy of your transcript order for future reference if needed. We will notify students with missing transcripts in late July to request another transcript if needed. For general questions about transcript submissions, please use the Contact Form on your Applicant Portal.

Current enrolled undergraduate students may also use this delivery method to submit official transcripts from other schools in which coursework was earned for evaluation. Please allow up to four weeks for evaluation and posting of credit to your record.

UC San Diego conducts a verification process for the students who accept the offer of admission to validate the applicants self-reported academic record. UC San Diego policy and procedure if UC San Diego or the Secretary has reason to believe that the high school diploma is not valid or was not obtained from an entity that provides secondary school education:

Public Information on Procedures

• UC Quick Reference Guide (PDF) (pg. 56 – Reporting Student Data): This section outlines the use of self-reported information followed by the receipt of final documents (high school transcript) after a student accepts an offer of admission, as well as the penalties for not providing accurate information.
• The UC Transcript Information Website
• UC Academic Senate Regulation 420

Article 2. Submission of Academic Records 420.

Each applicant for freshman admission must arrange for the University to receive, prior to the date established by the Office of Admissions, the final official high school transcript as well as a transcript for all collegiate courses that have been attempted.

The final official transcript from the high school from which the applicant graduated must show the date of graduation and the grade and the year taken for each course used to satisfy the requirements specified in Regulation 424. (Am 19 May 69, CC 2 May 77; Am 26 May 82) (Am 17 June 2009).

The Division of Arts & Humanities at UC San Diego is committed to a diverse incoming class and is actively seeking applicants who wish to major in History, Literature, Music, Philosophy, Theatre & Dance and Visual Arts. Submitting a portfolio is a way to enhance your overall UC San Diego application.

Any incoming first-year or transfer applicant interested in pursuing a major in one of the Arts departments (Music, Theatre & Dance, Visual Arts) may submit an optional portfolio/audition tape.

Undeclared Arts Majors

Undeclared Arts majors are welcome to submit a portfolio in your area of primary interest.

You may begin reviewing the submission requirements and loading your materials on October 1. However, you must complete your basic application to UC San Diego before you will be able to complete this supplemental submission, as you will need your application ID number from the UC Application. The department faculty will review the art portfolio/audition tape and share their evaluations with UC San Diego's Admissions Committee. Click here to submit a portfolio (after you have applied to UC San Diego).

Living at a California address does not mean you automatically have resident status in terms of tuition. The financial independence requirement makes it extremely difficult for most undergraduate students whose parents are not California residents to qualify for classification as a resident at the University of California. This includes students from community colleges and other post-secondary institutions within California. Transfer students who were classified as residents of California at their previous school should not assume that they will be classified as residents at UC San Diego. See the Registrar's Office webpages .

Applicants to UC San Diego rank the colleges on the UC Application. We recommend reviewing the Colleges when completing your ranking. Students who are offered admission to UC San Diego are assigned a college based on this ranking. College assignment is not based on major choice or academic interest. Students may study any major regardless of college affiliation.

We do our best to assign you to a College that matches your rankings on the UC Application but we cannot guarantee you will be assigned to your highest-ranked College. Not to worry, though. Every College at UC San Diego features an exceptional academic program, friendly advisors, unforgettable traditions and state-of-the-art living facilities.

No, students may study any major regardless of college affiliation.

Not at all. We assign students to Colleges after we determine that they will be admitted to UC San Diego.

UC San Diego admits only for the Fall term to which the student applied. Students who would like to enroll at a later date must reapply when they are ready to attend. Rare exceptions may be made for admitted students who have received military orders to report for active duty or if you require acute medical care for up to a maximum of one year only. Requests for deferment must be made by submitting the Request for Deferment Form . Only students who accept the offer of admission may be considered for a deferment. To be eligible to request a deferment, all transcripts and test scores must have been submitted by the deadline and validated.

We have a dedicated page for prospective transfer students . Transfer students enrich the Triton community with a diversity of interests and experiences and thrive at UC San Diego!

Not all majors require completion of lower-division coursework for admission. Applicants for the departments listed on our Transfer Major Preparation site will be screened for completion of major preparation coursework and the grades earned.

As part of the requirements for transfer admission, applicants must complete a pattern of courses known as the 7-course pattern .

ASSIST (Articulation System Stimulating Interinstitutional Student Transfer) is the official repository of articulation for California's public colleges and universities providing the most accurate and up-to-date information available about student transfer in California. ASSIST is a student-transfer information system that displays reports of how course credits earned at one California Community College can be applied when transferred to a California State University or University of California campus.

ASSIST is available at assist.org .

Assist.org is the official transfer and articulation system for California’s public colleges and universities. You select your current California Community College and explore lower division major preparation and department articulation.

While Assist.org is being updated with the latest information, you can find more information on our Course Transferability Guide site. Here you'll find information on UC San Diego's new and updated majors for 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. Students planning to transfer to UC San Diego, effective Fall 2018 or later, can use this information as a guide to planning coursework at their respective California Community College.

UC San Diego does not have articulation agreements outside of the California Community College system. This means there is no official way to determine which courses will transfer to UC San Diego; however, the general rule of thumb, unofficially, is that if the course(s) was completed at a regionally accredited college or university, and, an equivalent course(s) is offered at the University of California, then the course might transfer to UC San Diego. The only official way to determine UC transferability is to apply for admission.

Please review the UC San Diego Catalog to determine program requirements by major.

Transfer Admitted Students that accept the offer of admission are required to submit official transcripts from every college/university they attended by July 1. For those who graduated from high school in the United States and completed a U.S. History course, you can submit a high school transcript to clear the American History & Institutions requirement.

Completion of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) is not required for admission; however, completion will satisfy the lower-division/GE requirements for the following undergraduate colleges: John Muir, Earl Warren, Eleanor Roosevelt, Thurgood Marshall, Sixth and Seventh Colleges . Eighth College will begin accepting transfer students in 2025.

For Revelle College , IGETC does not clear all lower-division GE requirements. Students with IGETC are required to complete 3 courses in mathematics and 5 courses in natural science before transfer or while enrolled at UC San Diego.

Please refer to individual college websites for more information:

• Thurgood Marshall

Eleanor Roosevelt

• Earl Warren

If you plan to follow the IGETC, consider:

partial IGETC is also possible.

following IGETC can make your path to graduation easier – once you transfer, you can concentrate on your major field of study.

Military Connected

We have many resources and services dedicated to helping you transition from the military to college life. We have a Military-Connected page dedicated to helping you get started with your application to UC San Diego as an Undergraduate student.

Use the links on our Military-Connected page to connect directly to a wide range of helpful resources.

Yes. We offer many benefits specifically for veterans, including financial aid for you and your dependents, priority class registration (after the first quarter), a welcome week orientation, active student veterans organizations and a student veterans resource center. Learn more about the complete scope of veterans benefits available at UC San Diego.

No, UC San Diego does not have an ROTC campus office. ROTC programs at San Diego State University and the University of San Diego handle UC San Diego's ROTC process. Learn more about using ROTC funds at UC San Diego .

International Students

Visit the International Students webpage for additional information about the qualifications for International students.

UC San Diego will not consider SAT or ACT test scores as a factor in admissions decisions.

Demonstration of English proficiency is still required for international students, please visit our webpage to learn more.

AP grade reports for tests taken in May are sent to the colleges or universities you designated at the time you took your exams when scores are released by CollegeBoard. You may also designate UC San Diego (school code 004836) as your Free Score Send Recipient.

Some grade reports take longer to reach us for four main reasons:

inconsistent student identification information;

late return of exam materials to the AP program; or

some students test late using an alternative form of the exam; or

you may have selected the wrong school and will need to submit another order. Be sure to verify UC San Diego (school code 004836) is the designated recipient of AP scores as there are several universities in San Diego.

If you requested your exams in May and they qualify for academic credit, the scores and credit will display on MyTritonLink on the Academic History page in time for new student enrollment.

Official Advanced Placement scores will display on the Academic History section of MyTritonLink for students who have accepted the offer of admission when College Board sends AP scores to UC San Diego electronically. If your test scores are not showing by the time enrollment appointment times are published, please email us at [email protected] with the following information:

• date/s you requested your scores from College Board
• names used each time you took the exam (even if it only varies by the inclusion or exclusion of a middle initial)
• the year in which you took the exams
• the method of delivery you chose—one week or rush delivery.

If you need AP Calculus scores to fulfill a prerequisite and they are arriving late, you may email a copy of your results from College Board to the Math Placement Office at [email protected] and notify them that your AP scores may be delivered after July 15.

If you requested your tests after the month of May, we might not receive your test scores by your scheduled enrollment time. We will continue to process incoming test scores as they arrive; however, we cannot guarantee these scores will be posted in time for your enrollment. Tests are processed in the order they are received. Please allow a minimum of two weeks after you receive your confirmation from College Board that your scores have been sent. This will allow processing time for credit to be posted in the Academic History section of MyTritonLink.

If the name you used varied in each testing sitting, College Board will not be able to match your name and will not be able to send us one grade report for the cumulative tests taken. If this is the case, you will need to request from College Board that a grade report, including AP grades from all prior years, be sent to UC San Diego.

The number to use for College Board is 004836 .

A score of 3 or higher fulfills the UC Entry Level Writing Requirement .

AP Calculus scores are used to verify prerequisites for math courses. Scores of 3 or higher on the AP calculus AB exam earn 4 units of math credit (8 units for BC scores of 3 or higher). Scores of 2 may be used to place into introductory calculus courses (see UC San Diego General Catalog - Advanced Placement Credit ).

If you have any questions regarding your math placement, please visit the Math Testing and Placement website or contact the Math Testing and Placement office at [email protected] .

If you have received:

an AP calculus AB score of 2 or higher; or

a BC score of 3 or higher; or

if you received a BC score of 1 or 2 WITH an AB subgrade of 2 or higher,

then you should request from the College Board that your AP Calculus scores be sent to UC San Diego immediately.

(NOTE: AP Calculus AB scores of 1 or BC scores of 1 or 2 WITH an AB subgrade of 1 will not satisfy any prerequisites for math courses.)

Check your AP Student Grade Report. If the College Code 4836 is listed, then your scores have been sent to the UC San Diego Admissions Office.

Since your AP calculus scores may not be received and posted before the online enrollment period, you should also send a copy of your AP Student Grade Reports showing your AP Calculus score to the Math Testing and Placement Office (fax 858-534-1011 or email [email protected] ) as early as possible.

Include your PID, your desired math placement, and your contact information on the fax or email. Once the Math Testing and Placement Office has received your AP Student Grade Report, they will pre-authorize you to enroll in your desired math course subject to the prerequisite you met and the timely receipt of your fax or email.

To request International Baccalaureate (IB) transcripts, go to the IB website .

In order to complete the request form, you may need some of the following information:

University of California, San Diego Office of Admissions ATTN: TRANSCRIPTS 9500 Gilman Dr. # 0021 La Jolla, CA 92093-0021 United States

Applicant Portal

New applicants will be invited to log into the Applicant Portal where they can complete Checklist tasks and learn of their application decision in the spring. All applicants will receive an email notification in November with login instructions to create their account at that time.

You can log into your UC Application to review and, if necessary, change your telephone number, email, mailing address, TOEFL or International Exam Scores. You can also apply to additional campuses if they are still accepting applications. Minor changes to your activities, awards, volunteer work or employment are unlikely to have an impact on your admission decision and cannot be updated.

After the Applicant Portal opens in October, applicants can update their choice of major and college ranking until January 31. Transfer students must log into the UC Application to submit the Transfer Academic Update by the priority deadline of January 31.

Look for an email invitation from UC San Diego containing Applicant Portal Login Instructions sent in mid-December to the email address you provided on your UC Application. You might need to look in your SPAM folder. The email will provide the Portal Link, Username and Pin to create your account. If you do not receive the email, please contact [email protected] and ask that they resend the email to you.

Campus Tours

We offer various types of tours of our campus .

Please refer to our Directions & Parking page for up-to-date information.

Guests are instructed to meet at the Triton Center , where they can check-in for the tour. You can find us on the first floor of the Student Services Center next to Town Square. Please feel free to use our Self-Guided Tour map as a guide.

If you will be arriving in a charter bus, we ask that students be dropped off at Matthew’s Loop, located at the end of Matthew’s Lane. To access Matthew’s Lane:

Please exit Genesee Avenue from I-5. If exiting from the Northbound side, make a left at the exit. If exiting

from the Southbound side, make a right turn at the exit.

Make a right onto Campus Point Dr. and continue straight as it will turn into Voight Drive (you will pass a hospital, baseball fields and even see our trolley line).

Make a left onto Matthew’s Lane (Voight will come to a “T”).

Students can be dropped off at the loop at the end of Matthew’s Lane.

Charter buses can be parked in lot P782, located to the east side of the campus by the medical side. Please use our campus map for guidance.

We require all guests to check-in before attending the tour. A mobile check-in option will be emailed to you an hour before the tour. We recommend that you utilize this contactless method to let us know when you arrive. Please be mindful that your location services must be enabled on your device in order for the mobile check-in to work. You also need to be in close proximity to campus for this option to work. If you are still facing issues with the mobile check-in, we are available in the Triton Center to help. Please plan on arriving a few minutes early to ensure you are not late for your tour.

Our campus spans an area of 1,976 acres . In the interest of your time, and to avoid exhaustion, our tour route will only go through the central campus. We have additional tour routes available on our Self-guided Tour Map for you to explore if you would like to see more of the campus during your visit.

Due to privacy and security reasons, guests are not permitted to enter residential buildings at this time. If you wish to learn more about the housing accommodations here at UC San Diego, please visit the HDH Undergrad Housing website .

You are also welcome to stop by the Triton Center and connect with a Student Assistant to learn more about the living and learning neighborhoods and the dining experience here at UC San Diego.

The academic year is currently underway, so we recommend visitors do not try to open the classroom doors as classes might be in session. Please be mindful of the students and staff using the classroom space.

UC San Diego has dozens of places to eat on campus. We recommend stopping by the Price Center , which has a variety of quick-serve options. Depending on the time of year, some dining options might be closed and/or have a change to their usual hours of operation.

Bring walking shoes and weather protection! The 90-minute walking tour is entirely outside. Although rare in sunny San Diego, please bring an umbrella if rain is in the forecast as there is minimal shelter from rain along our tour path.

We have two wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis that you can request from our office. Send an email request including your name to our office at least 2 business days before your tour to reserve one of our wheelchairs. We will not be able to accommodate any requests for wheelchairs on the day of your scheduled tour. Our Campus Ambassadors will not be able to push you, so please ensure that you or someone in your party will be able to do so.

If you have your own wheelchair, all our Campus Ambassadors are trained on wheelchair accessible routes and can easily adjust the tour to avoid stairs or steep slopes.

UC San Diego Parent & Family Programs has partnered with Bartell Hotels to offer families, students, alumni, and friends reduced hotel rates at some of the finest properties in San Diego. Please visit their Local Resource landing page for more information.

Yes! We welcome small tour groups of less than 20 people to visit any of the many restaurants frequented by our student population. We recommend that you check the dining website for specific hours of operation and any special events happening on the day of your visit. We kindly accept all major credit cards; however, all locations are cash-free. If you would like to use a prepaid campus card (Triton Cash), please contact [email protected] for more information.

If your tour group is larger than 20 people, please get in touch with us at [email protected] , and we will be happy to provide you with information on large group accommodations. We offer a range of options to accommodate groups of all sizes, and we would be delighted to help you plan a memorable visit.

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If you didn't find the answer you were looking for, please use the dropdown below to locate contact information for further assistance.

Directory of Key Campus Offices

Select from the dropdown below and we'll point you to the right people.

Admission Advising: First-Year and Transfer Undergraduates

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Hours	at (858) 534-4831 for more information.
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-4831
Fax	(858) 534-5629

Office of the Registrar including Residency

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email (Registrar)
Email (Residency)
(858) 534-4831
Fax	(858) 534-5629

Parent and Family Programs

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Additional Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-7273
Fax	(858) 534-5629

Housing Dining Hospitality

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-4010
(858) 534-5629

The Colleges

Learn more: mycompass.ucsd.edu/public

Revelle College

Website

John Muir College

Thurgood marshall college, earl warren college, sixth college, seventh college, campus community centers.

Learn more: diversity.ucsd.edu/centers-resources/community-centers.html

APIMEDA (Asian Pacific Islander Middle Eastern Desi American) Program

Website
Email

Black Resource Center (BRC)

Cross cultural center, intertribal resource center (itrc), lgbt resource center, raza resource centro, student veteran resource center (svrc), women's center, undocumented student services center, career center.

Website

Departments and Majors

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Phone	(858) 534-4010
Fax	(858) 534-5629

Office for Students with Disabilities

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email
(858) 534-4010
Fax	(858) 534-5629

Outreach Coordinators for Out-of-State and International Students

Study abroad, applicant portal and triton checklist.

Email: [email protected] Phone: (858) 534-4208

New Applicants will receive an email invitation to the Applicant Portal in mid-December to complete action items and learn of their application decision in the spring.

Admitted students accepting the offer of admission receive an email invitation to the Triton Checklist to complete pre-enrollment tasks such as applying for on-campus Housing, college orientation and academic advising, instructions to submit and monitor receipt of official transcripts, and other important requirements within 48 hours after accepting the offer.

Login Questions

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Hours	M: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., T-F, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-4208
(858) 534-5629

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Location
Hours	M-F: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 822-4750
(858) 822-4752

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Location
Hours	For Current hours, including Virtual Counseling via zoom visit .
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-4480

Deferments may be considered for extenuating circumstances preventing the student from enrolling in the Fall Quarter term they were admitted to such as medical need, military deployment and other unforeseen events. Please submit an appeal to [email protected] providing your name, UC San Diego identification number, reason and length of deferment.

Deferments cannot exceed more than one year. Applicants must re-apply for admission if their plans have changed and cannot attend within the next academic year.

Graduate Division

Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-3555

International Students and Programs Office (ISPO)

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Location
M-F, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Website
Email
Phone	(858) 534-4831
Fax	(858) 534-5629

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Write effective essays for college and university writing prompts and research specific colleges, universities and programs for supplemental essays..

Students will be exposed to the skills necessary for personal essay writing, and they will use those skills to draft, edit and complete essays for the UC Personal Insight questions, and based on student interest and need, the Common Application essay prompts. In addition, students will learn the research and writing skills necessary to complete supplementary essay questions for specific colleges, universities, and programs. Students can use these skills to write admissions essays for colleges and universities that do not use the Personal Insight Questions or Common Application prompts. Instruction will focus on college admissions essay writing as a process that includes reading the essay questions carefully, drafting and editing drafts of essays tailored to the essay questions, learning to self-edit final drafts for common grammar and usage issues, and acquiring skills necessary to perform research on college and university websites for supplementary questions.

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• Learn the skills necessary to analyze and break down essay prompts before writing.
• Implement pre-writing strategies such as brainstorming and outlining.
• Apply the skills of personal essay writing to draft and assess their own essays for effectiveness and relevance to essay prompts.
• Use research skills necessary to write supplementary essays for specific programs, colleges, and universities.
• Edit final drafts for basic grammar and usage issues, including syntax (verb tense and comma splices) and diction (varying word choice).

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Dr. Gudas's recent college essay students have been accepted to these colleges and universities: Yale University, USC, UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Irvine, UC Santa Barbara, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, Purdue University School of Engineering, Santa Clara University, DePaul University, University of Washington, Indiana University, Ohio State University, Loyola Marymount University, Hofstra University, Savannah College Of Art and Design, University of Colorado Bounder, Penn State, University of Alabama  

• Eric Gudas really helped me to refine my college application essays. He got me to better understand the prompts and how I could better adhere to them while guiding me in finding and developing the weaker parts of my essay to bring it together as a strong cohesive piece of writing. I deeply enjoyed working with him and look forward to working with him in the future.                           —Faith, UC Berkeley student, class of 2026​
• Dr. Gudas helped me review and strengthen my Common Application and UC essays, along with essays for my AP English class. Ultimately, I was accepted into UCLA, USC, UCI, UCSB, and other colleges. Without the assistance of Dr. Gudas, my college application essays would definitely not have been as refined. During sessions, he really helps you understand the prompts and find your own ways to answer them. He is also skilled at grammar-fixing and sentence-structuring. Furthermore, Dr. Gudas has a great personality and is enjoyable to work with. I would recommend Dr. Gudas to anybody looking for any sort of help with writing, especially college application essays.                                                                                                                                     —Jason Ni, UCLA student, class of 2027

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Note:   Course and schedule details: This course offers students four hours to work with the instructor via one-on-one virtual meetings. These meetings are scheduled at the discretion of the instructor and student based on student availability and preference. All sessions must be completed within the date span agreed to between the instructor and the student or the student forfeits any remaining hours. The course cost is $400. How to enroll: Please contact [email protected] and they will directly help you enroll in the course and schedule your sessions with the instructor.  Cancellation policy: Students must provide 24 hours’ notice if they intend to cancel a session via email ( [email protected] ). Failure to do so will result in the session counting towards the total number of sessions that have been prepaid for.   

I got to brainstorm and write with a college professor who showed me how to turn a personal anecdote into a well crafted story that hooks admission counselors. Drew S. , Student | College Admissions Essay Individualized Tutorial Support | 2023

This course was incredibly useful for me personally to take the rough college essay drafts that I had created to a new level. I got to brainstorm and write with a college professor who showed me how to turn a personal anecdote into a well crafted story that hooks admission counselors. I would absolutely recommend this course whether you have nearly finished essays or haven't yet started. Drew S. , Student | College Admissions Essay Individualized Tutorial Support | 2023

There are no sections of this course currently scheduled. Please contact the Pre-College Programs department at 858-534-0804 or [email protected] for information about when this course will be offered again.

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How to Write the University of San Diego Essays 2021-2022

The University of San Diego has two supplemental essay prompts. The first prompt asks you to discuss one of the five themes that reflects the liberal arts tradition: Advocate, Collaborate, Cultivate, Illuminate and Innovate. The second prompt allows you to choose from three options that focus on community, challenges that face humanity, and faith or spirituality.

The University of San Diego receives thousands of applications from students with similar profiles, so you want to make sure your essays will get noticed by an admissions officer. In this post, we’ll discuss how to write a thoughtful response to each of these prompts.

Want to know your chances at University of San Diego? Calculate your chances for free right now.

University of San Diego Supplemental Essay Prompts

All applicants.

Prompt 1: The University of San Diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. First-year students are immersed in one of our five Living Learning Communities (LLC), with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: Advocate, Collaborate, Cultivate, Illuminate and Innovate. Select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why. (350 words)

Prompt 2: Now choose one of the three prompts below to write about. Essays should be approximately 200 words in length. 

Option 1: Here at USD, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. Our newly launched Horizon Project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse and inclusive campus community. We value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education. With that context in mind, what contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable community?

Option 2: USD is a proud Changemaker Campus, as designated by Ashoka U. As such, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective. Use this space to write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. Why does it matter to you? What experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue?

Option 3: Because USD is a contemporary Catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. We devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant USD community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with God while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become. Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know.

The University of San Diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. First-year students are immersed in one of our five Living Learning Communities (LLC), with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: Advocate, Collaborate, Cultivate, Illuminate and Innovate. Select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why. (350 words)

This prompt gives you an opportunity to show the admissions officer something unique about yourself. Because the prompt is so broad, it’s important to remember some of the main hallmarks of a good essay: Meets the basic requirements

The essay stays within the prompt word count, responds to the prompt, and doesn’t repeat information that’s already in your application. It’s also important to be mindful of your audience—in this case, the University of San Diego is a Catholic University, so they may be more conservative. 

Highly personal

A highly personal essay will share your thoughts and feelings and make it clear to the admissions officer what matters to you. By making it highly personal, your authenticity will come through.

With a broad prompt like this one, it’s easy to get caught in a surface level exploration of the theme, rather than going deep. Make sure you stick to the theme you choose and only focus on that. 

Well-Written

This may seem obvious, but a well-written essay is a good essay.  You’ll want to be sure there’s a strong opening and ending , it flows well, avoids cliches, and shows and doesn’t tell (more on this later).

Overall, a strong essay will highlight what makes you stand out from the other students who resonate with the theme you choose. This includes your interests and hobbies, values, experiences, family, language, etc. It will also discuss how the theme you choose shapes your outlook and actions.

One hallmark of a well-written essay is to show, not tell. This means using illustrative language and immersing the reader in your experience, rather than just writing what happened. For example, you don’t want to say, “I resonate with the “collaborate” theme because I enjoy working with people in my science club.” Instead, show and vividly describe a time when you and your science club peers collaborated on something together for a positive outcome. Show us your faces deep in thought, the late nights you spent working together to solve a problem—bring the admissions officer into the story as much as you can.

Prompt 2 Option 1

Here at usd, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. our newly launched horizon project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse and inclusive campus community. we value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education. with that context in mind, what contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable community (200 words).

This prompt is a blend of both the community focused essay and diversity focused essay and is a great option for someone who’s actively involved in their community and wants to see changes made.

When discussing the contribution you made to your community, make sure to avoid short-term projects, such as a one-week Habitat for Humanity trip. Instead, discuss more genuine commitments that are more long-standing. You’ll then want to consider how the values mentioned in the prompt above came through during this experience and what impact it had , not just on your community, but you as well. Keep in mind that the word count is short (200 words) so you’ll want to be clear and precise in your response while getting the message across.

A student who was passionate about women’s rights might discuss how she learned that in some parts of the world, girls aren’t able to go to school when they are menstruating, and she believed it was unjust that girls were denied education for something beyond their control. She would talk about how she organized a drive for menstrual products at her school and donated them to girls in other countries. She would describe how she was not only able to make a positive impact on the lives of those girls, but she helped bring an issue she was deeply passionate about to the attention of her peers. She could also talk about how she had to be organized and spread the word so others would donate, which was a learning experience for her as well.

You don’t need to explicitly state that your involvement in your community demonstrates your commitment to diversity and inclusion. In fact, a good essay should be able to convey that to your readers with just descriptions. The more descriptive and anecdotal your essay is, the better you will be to show the admissions officers you are committed to diversity, rather than telling them.

For this diversity/community focused style of prompt, be sure to avoid using a privileged or pretentious tone and avoid a cliche conclusion such as “I learned that people can be happy with so little.” 

Prompt 2 Option 2

Usd is a proud changemaker campus, as designated by ashoka u. as such, the usd experience emphasizes changemaking through social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective. use this space to write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. why does it matter to you what experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue (200 words).

If you’re someone who’s passionate about global issues or social justice, this is a great option for you and fits into the political/global issues style of essay . 

This prompt gives you the opportunity to show that you’re an engaged citizen who cares about others and wants to make a difference. It’s also a chance to show admissions officers how you align with The University of San Diego’s values that they emphasize above.

As you write, keep in mind that you want to choose a challenge that is relevant and pressing to you. However, you should focus more on why it matters to you rather than the challenge itself. The admissions officers know about climate change, refugee crises, and Black Lives Matter protests. What they don’t know yet is why you care about these issues.

The structure of your essay should introduce the challenge you are passionate about (ideally through an anecdote), explain what drew you to this issue, describe how your emotions or state of mind are affected by this issue, and share what you see as a solution. 

Describing your emotions and state of mind when you hear or think about this issue is how you will be able to convey to admissions officers what this challenge means to you. You don’t want to say, “I am sad when I think about all the people who have died from cancer because we still don’t have a cure.” To really show admissions officers your passion and interest in this topic, you would write something like this: “An overwhelming feeling of desperation and confusion floods over me upon hearing my friend’s grandpa died of pancreatic cancer. It doesn’t make sense. We’ve cured Smallpox and Polio, we’ve developed vaccines for countless sicknesses. How can we fight off these petulant cells?”

Maybe the most important part of your essay is the ending. How are you going to fix this problem? Although the prompt doesn’t explicitly ask for you to propose a solution to the challenge you discuss, including this will take your essay from good to great. Admissions officers want to admit students who will change the world. Your essay should show that you are innovative and think towards the future. Just a sentence or two about how you want to improve the world will show that you are the type of student the University of San Diego wants on their campus. 

Prompt 2 Option 3

Because usd is a contemporary catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. we devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant usd community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with god while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become. share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. (200 words).

If you are not someone who’s passionate about faith or spirituality, this may not be the best prompt for you. However, if you are someone who’s been strongly affected by faith and spirituality, this is your chance to express how those values connect with USD’s.

​​One essay structure approach you can take with this essay is: 

• Start with your first interactions with religion/faith/spirituality
• Tell the story of how you arrived at your conclusions about faith/spirituality and include any moments where you were challenged. 
• Connect these conclusions with the values of USD 

This is an especially fitting essay for related anecdotes if they’re short enough. For instance, you might start your essay with a story of when you first wondered about spirituality. If your relationship with spirituality or faith changed over time, that would also lend itself well to a series of anecdotes. 

Where to Get Your University of San Diego School Essay Edited for Free : 

Do you want feedback on your University of San Diego essay? It’s always good to get a second pair of eyes on your writing. That’s why we created our Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. Since they don’t know you personally, they can be a more objective judge of whether your personality shines through, and whether you’ve fully answered the prompt. 

You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

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How to Get into UC San Diego: Admission Requirements and Tips

By Eric Eng

The University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic standards and competitive admissions process. Every year, thousands of students vie for a spot, facing challenges ranging from meeting high academic criteria to crafting standout personal statements.

In this article, we’ll help you navigate UC San Diego’s admissions process. We’ll provide insights and practical tips to boost your chances of getting into this esteemed university.

Overview of UC San Diego

Established in 1960, UC San Diego is in La Jolla, a community in San Diego, California. This location offers students a blend of vibrant city life and serene natural beauty, enhancing the overall educational experience.

UC San Diego is celebrated for its exceptional programs across various fields. Notably, it excels in science, engineering, medicine, and oceanography. The university’s commitment to research and innovation has consistently placed it at the forefront of academic excellence.

Moreover, the university is ranked #28 in National Universities and #6 in Top Public Schools in the U.S. by the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges . Furthermore, Forbes recognized it as the No. 3 Top Public College in 2023 and No. 21 among 500 four-year colleges in the U.S.

The university’s prestige is further highlighted by its notable alumni. Among its distinguished graduates are Mario Molina, a chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995, and Benicio del Toro, an Academy Award-winning actor. Their successes underscore the caliber of education and opportunities available at UC San Diego.

Knowing UC San Diego’s history, achievements, and distinguished alumni should shape your application approach. Highlight your alignment with the university’s values, its areas of excellence, and how you can contribute to its legacy of innovation and success.

How Hard Is It to Get into UC San Diego?

At UC San Diego, the latest acceptance rate stands at 24.7%. This figure indicates a highly selective admissions process, reflecting the university’s reputation for academic excellence.

With fewer than one in four applicants being accepted, it’s clear that gaining admission requires more than just meeting the basic criteria. This competitive landscape underscores the need for applicants to distinguish themselves beyond just grades and test scores.

UC San Diego’s acceptance rate

UC San Diego’s acceptance rate has shown a generally downward trend over the past five years:

Class of 2023	30.1%
Class of 2024	38.3%
Class of 2025	34.2%
Class of 2026	23.7%
Class of 2027	24.7%

This trend highlights the increasing difficulty of gaining admission, as the university becomes more selective in its student intake.

For the Class of 2027 , UC San Diego received 130,841 applications and admitted 32,314 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 24.7%. These numbers reflect the university’s high demand and the competitive nature of its admissions process.

Prospective students should view this acceptance rate as a measure of selectivity, which indicates the level of competition they will face. It emphasizes the importance of a strong application that stands out in a large pool of candidates.

Factors influencing the acceptance rate

When considering UC San Diego’s acceptance rate, keep in mind these four main factors at an institutional level:

• Academic Reputation: The university’s strong academic standing attracts a high number of applicants, impacting the acceptance rate.
• Program Popularity: Certain popular programs, like engineering and biomedicine, receive more applications, affecting the overall rate.
• Demographic Trends: Changes in demographics, including an increase in college-aged populations, can lead to more applications.
• Strategic Goals: The university’s strategic goals, such as diversifying the student body or enhancing research capabilities, also play a role in admissions decisions.

UC San Diego Admission Requirements

Gaining admission to UC San Diego involves meeting various requirements that assess a student’s academic abilities and potential. Here, we provide an overview of the key components of the application:

• GPA : A minimum GPA is required for eligibility. UC San Diego places significant emphasis on your academic performance, considering both your GPA and the rigor of your courses.
• Subject Requirements: Completion of specific high school courses is necessary to prepare for UC San Diego ‘s academic rigor. These courses typically include subjects like mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign languages.
• Extracurricular Activities: Your involvement in extracurriculars showcases your passions and commitments outside academic pursuits.
• Personal Essays: You are required to answer four Personal Insight Questions. These essays are your opportunity to provide a deeper insight into your personality, experiences, and alignment with the university’s ethos.

It is important to note that UC San Diego is test-free. The university does not consider SAT or ACT test scores for admissions or scholarship decisions. Still, if submitted, they may be used for fulfilling minimum requirements or course placement after admission.

Letters of recommendation are not required during the initial application process, either. However, UC San Diego may request them later for a supplemental review.

The admission process at UC San Diego is holistic. This means that while academic metrics are important, the admissions committee also heavily weighs personal achievements, extracurricular involvement, and the quality of your essays. They look for well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to the campus community.

What Does UC San Diego Look for in Students?

It’s essential for applicants to understand the values that UC San Diego prioritizes in its students. Knowing these values not only helps in aligning your application with the university’s expectations but also in assessing if UC San Diego is the right fit for you.

1. Academic achievement

Academic achievement is a key focus for UC San Diego during the admissions process. The university seeks students who not only excel academically but who also embrace challenging coursework and demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence.

• GPA: A high GPA is indicative of your ability to handle academic pressure and excel in your studies. UC San Diego values consistent academic performance.
• Course Rigor: Engaging in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or other college-level courses shows your willingness to push beyond standard requirements and prepare for a rigorous university curriculum.
• Class Ranking : Being at the top of your class is a testament to your academic skills and dedication. It provides a context for your achievements relative to your peers, highlighting your academic competitiveness.

2. Personal qualities

UC San Diego looks beyond academic metrics to personal qualities, seeking students who embody characteristics like leadership, creativity, and a sense of community. These traits are essential for a dynamic and diverse university environment.

• Leadership: Demonstrating leadership can be through roles in student organizations, sports teams, or community groups. It’s about showing initiative and the ability to guide and inspire others.
• Creativity: Creativity is valued in problem-solving and innovative thinking. It can be showcased through unique projects, artistic endeavors, or novel approaches in various fields.
• Responsibility and Maturity: These traits are crucial for success in a university setting. They can be reflected in how you manage your time, balance academics with other activities, and navigate challenges.
• Sense of Community: Active participation in community service or group activities illustrates your ability to work with others and contribute positively to society. UC San Diego values students who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

In summary, UC San Diego seeks students who not only excel academically but also possess personal qualities that contribute to a vibrant and diverse campus culture. Showcasing these aspects in your application can significantly boost your chances of admission .

UC San Diego GPA and SAT Requirements

UC San Diego places a high value on a student’s GPA as it is a strong indicator of academic consistency and capability. The GPA reflects your ability to perform across various subjects over an extended period, giving the admissions committee a reliable measure of your academic discipline and readiness for college-level work.

While UC San Diego does not consider SAT scores for admissions or scholarship decisions, these scores, if submitted, can be used for alternative purposes. This includes fulfilling minimum requirements or for course placement after you are admitted. The SAT can provide additional context to your academic abilities, particularly in math and critical reading, which are essential for college success.

In summary, while your GPA remains a crucial factor in the admissions process at UC San Diego, the role of SAT scores has shifted. It’s important to focus on maintaining a strong academic record and preparing for university-level coursework to enhance your application.

UC San Diego GPA Requirements

UC San Diego sets clear minimum GPA requirements for admission eligibility:

• For California Residents: You must have a GPA of 3.0 or better, with no grade lower than C.
• For Non-California Residents and International Applicants: The requirement is a GPA of 3.4 or higher, also with no grade lower than a C.

These GPAs are calculated based on grades earned in A-G courses during the 10th and 11th grades, including summer sessions.

Meanwhile, the average GPA of admitted students is 4.16. The typical GPA of UC San Diego’s admitted students, which is significantly higher than the minimum requirements, illustrates the institution’s competitive admission process.

When you look at these statistics, consider them as an indicator of the level of academic excellence UC San Diego expects from its students. The high average GPA of admitted students suggests that successful applicants tend to go well beyond the minimum requirements, showcasing not just competence but excellence in their academic pursuits.

GPA recommendations

Given the competitive nature of admissions at UC San Diego, aspiring students should aim for a GPA that is comfortably above the minimum requirements. Striving for a GPA of 4.16 or higher can place you in a strong position.

It’s also important to remember that UC San Diego values the quality of your coursework. Therefore, engaging in a rigorous curriculum and excelling in challenging courses is just as crucial as maintaining a high GPA .

To enhance your chances of admission to UC San Diego, here are some practical tips to help you achieve and maintain a strong GPA:

• Select challenging courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes. Excelling in these shows your ability to handle university-level studies.
• Aim for consistency in your grades. A steady upward trend or sustained high performance can be very impressive.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from teachers or tutors if you’re struggling with a subject. Understanding the material fully can boost your grades.
• Develop strong time management skills to balance academics with extracurricular activities. Effective planning can help you excel in both areas.
• Utilize summer breaks for additional learning or to strengthen subjects where you may need improvement. This can contribute positively to your GPA.
• Ensure you’re meeting the A-G course requirements and understand how they impact your GPA.
• If your GPA is currently below the target range, concentrate on improving your grades in the remaining semesters. Remember, universities like UC San Diego value improvement and hard work.
• Active participation can lead to a better understanding of the material and can sometimes positively influence your grades.
• Collaborating with peers in study groups can enhance your understanding of challenging subjects and improve academic performance

UC San Diego Course Requirements

Understanding the required courses when applying to UC San Diego is crucial. It ensures that your high school curriculum aligns with the university’s expectations, demonstrating your preparedness for its academic rigor.

Completing these courses not only fulfills basic eligibility criteria but also strengthens your application by showcasing your commitment to a comprehensive education.

UC San Diego requires you to complete at least 11 of the 15 A-G courses before your senior year of high school. Here’s a breakdown:

• History/Social Science (2 years): These courses should cover significant historical events, fostering an understanding of human society and behavior.
• English (4 years): A focus on literature, composition, and critical thinking skills is crucial in these courses.
• Mathematics (3 years, 4 recommended): This includes subjects like algebra, geometry, and calculus, emphasizing analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Laboratory Science (2 years, 3 recommended): Courses in biology, chemistry, and physics that include hands-on laboratory work are essential.
• Foreign Language (2 years, 3 recommended): Proficiency in a second language enhances communication skills and cultural awareness.
• Visual and Performing Arts (1 year): Engagement in arts education, whether visual arts, music, theater, or dance, fosters creativity and expression.
• College Preparatory Elective (1 year): This elective should complement the A-G courses and can be chosen based on your interests and academic goals.

Course selection tips

When choosing your high school courses with UC San Diego in mind, consider these key factors to align your curriculum with the university’s expectations:

• Choose courses that challenge you but also align with your interests. A balance of rigorous coursework and subjects you are passionate about can lead to better engagement and academic success.
• Whenever possible, go beyond the minimum course requirements. For example, taking a fourth year of math or a third year of a foreign language demonstrates your commitment to comprehensive learning.
• If you have a prospective major, select courses relevant to that field. For instance, if you’re interested in engineering, prioritize advanced math and science courses.
• Ensure your course selection covers a wide range of subjects. This variety showcases your ability to handle different academic disciplines.
• Enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or honors courses can highlight your academic ambition. These courses are often viewed favorably as they are more challenging.
• While selecting challenging courses , be mindful of maintaining strong grades. A declining grade trend, even in harder classes, might raise concerns about your ability to manage a rigorous workload.
• Guidance counselors can provide valuable advice on course selection and how it aligns with college admissions requirements.
• Consider the availability of courses at your school and your ability to realistically manage the workload. It’s important to strike a balance between ambition and practicality.

UC San Diego SAT Requirements

The SAT assesses a student’s readiness for college, focusing on critical reading, writing, and mathematics. It provides a standardized measure of academic skills across diverse applicants.

UC San Diego’s test-free policy means SAT scores are not considered for admissions. However, understanding the typical scores of admitted students can offer insight into the academic caliber of the student body:

1375	1270	1480

The typical SAT scores of UC San Diego students tend to be higher than the national average, suggesting a student body with strong academic foundations.

Scoring at or above the 75th percentile (1480) indicates a high level of academic ability. While it doesn’t directly influence admission, it can be used for fulfilling minimum requirements or course placement after enrollment.

A score at or above the 25th percentile (1270) doesn’t confer an advantage but reflects a level of academic competency. If your score is in this range, you may forego submitting your scores. Instead, focus on strengthening other aspects of your application.

In UC San Diego’s test-free admissions context, these SAT statistics provide a perspective on the academic strengths of the student body rather than serving as a direct admissions criterion.

SAT recommendations

If you choose to submit SAT scores, aiming for a higher score, such as in the 75th percentile range (1480) or higher, can be beneficial for fulfilling minimum requirements or course placement after admission.

However, with UC San Diego’s test-free policy, focusing on other aspects of your application becomes even more important. Here are some strategies to strengthen your application in the absence of SAT scores:

• Concentrate on maintaining a high GPA and taking challenging courses. This demonstrates your academic readiness and commitment to learning.
• Active involvement in extracurriculars can showcase your leadership, teamwork, and other personal skills.
• Develop qualities like creativity, responsibility, and a sense of community. These traits can make your application stand out.
• Spend time crafting compelling personal essays. Your essays should reflect your personality, experiences, and how you align with UC San Diego’s values.
• Engage in experiences that align with your interests and intended major. This could include internships, research projects, or community service.
• Showcase a range of skills and interests in your application to demonstrate versatility and well-roundedness.
• If UC San Diego requests recommendations during a supplemental review, ensure they come from individuals who can genuinely attest to your abilities and character.
• Ensure you’re meeting the A-G course requirements, as these are crucial for eligibility.
• Consider how your goals and values align with those of the university and articulate this in your application.

UC San Diego ACT Requirements

The ACT is a standardized test designed to assess college readiness. It measures skills in English, mathematics, reading, and science, providing colleges with a comprehensive view of a student’s academic abilities.

UC San Diego, following a test-free admissions policy, does not consider ACT scores for admissions decisions. However, understanding the typical scores of its students can offer insights into the competitive academic environment:

31	28	34

The typical ACT scores at UC San Diego are above the national average, reflecting the university’s high academic standards and the caliber of its student body.

Scoring at or above the 75th percentile (34) indicates a high level of academic ability, aligning with the top quarter of UC San Diego’s student profile. While not a factor in admissions, it can serve as a benchmark for your academic capabilities.

A score at or above the 25th percentile (28) doesn’t directly influence your admission chances but can be a benchmark for academic preparedness. If your score is around this percentile, it’s essential to ensure other aspects of your application are robust.

Given UC San Diego’s test-free policy, these ACT statistics are for benchmarking purposes only and do not impact admissions decisions. They provide a perspective on the academic strengths of students typically admitted to the university.

ACT recommendations

While ACT scores are not considered in admissions decisions at UC San Diego, aiming for a higher score, such as in the 75th percentile range (34) or higher, can be useful for personal benchmarking and academic self-assessment.

However, the primary focus should be on developing a strong overall application that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Here are some tips to strengthen your application:

• Prioritize achieving a high GPA, especially in challenging courses, as it is a crucial aspect of your application.
• Participate in activities that demonstrate your leadership, creativity, and commitment to community service. These experiences can showcase your personal qualities and passions.
• Spend time crafting insightful and reflective personal essays. These should highlight your unique experiences, motivations, and how you align with UC San Diego’s values.
• Engage in experiences that are relevant to your intended field of study, such as internships, research projects, or relevant work experience.
• Choose a range of subjects in your high school curriculum to demonstrate your versatility and readiness for a diverse university environment.
• Show your ability to contribute to a community by participating in volunteer work or community-based projects.
• Reflect on your personal and academic journey, understanding how it aligns with UC San Diego’s mission and culture.
• While not required initially, be prepared to provide strong letters of recommendation if requested for supplemental review.
• Keep abreast of any updates in UC San Diego’s admissions policies, ensuring your application meets all current requirements.

Is UC San Diego Test-Optional?

UC San Diego has adopted a test-free policy , which means that SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the admissions or scholarship decisions. This policy reflects the university’s commitment to a holistic review process, focusing on other aspects of a student’s application.

As an applicant, UC San Diego’s test-free policy means that your admissions decision will be based on factors other than your SAT or ACT scores. This includes your GPA, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and any other relevant experiences or qualifications. It allows you to focus on showcasing your strengths and achievements in areas other than standardized testing.

UC San Diego’s decision to go test-free is part of a broader movement in higher education towards greater inclusivity and equity in the admissions process. The policy recognizes that standardized tests may not fully capture a student’s potential or academic ability, particularly considering diverse educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.

By adopting this approach, UC San Diego aims to create a more accessible and holistic admissions process that evaluates students based on a broader range of criteria, ensuring a diverse and talented student body.

Does UC San Diego Superscore SAT and ACT?

In alignment with its test-free policy, UC San Diego does not superscore SAT and ACT results. Superscoring refers to the practice of combining the highest section scores from multiple test sittings into a new composite score. Since UC San Diego does not consider SAT or ACT scores in its admissions or scholarship decisions, this practice is irrelevant for applicants to the university.

The absence of superscoring at UC San Diego means that you do not need to focus on retaking standardized tests to improve section scores. Instead, your efforts should be directed towards strengthening other parts of your application.

This includes maintaining a strong GPA, engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities, crafting compelling personal essays, and showcasing any special talents or experiences. UC San Diego’s test-free policy is designed to evaluate your potential and capabilities based on a holistic review of your entire application, beyond just test scores.

UC San Diego Application Essays

Application essays are a critical component of your UC San Diego application. They provide an opportunity for you to share your experiences, personality, and aspirations with the admissions committee.

Essays offer a window into who you are beyond grades and test scores, allowing you to demonstrate your creativity, problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and commitment to your community. Well-crafted essays can significantly strengthen your application by showcasing your unique qualities and how you align with UC San Diego’s values.

Personal Insight Questions

UC San Diego requires you to choose and respond to four out of eight Personal Insight Questions , with each response having a maximum of 350 words. These questions are designed to understand different facets of your character and experiences:

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Selecting the right questions to answer is crucial. Choose those that resonate with your experiences and where you can provide insightful and genuine responses. Your essays should reflect a combination of your achievements, challenges, personal growth, and how these experiences have shaped your aspirations.

Here are some specific tips to help you write impactful essays:

• Before writing, think deeply about which questions you choose to answer. Select those that resonate with your personal experiences and allow you to share meaningful stories.
• Write in your own voice. Authenticity is key to connecting with the admissions committee. Share real experiences and genuine reflections.
• Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points. This approach makes your essay more engaging and memorable.
• Highlight how your experiences have shaped you. Discuss what you’ve learned and how you’ve evolved as a person.
• Stay focused on answering the prompt. Avoid going off-topic or being too vague in your responses.
• With a 350-word limit, your essays should be concise. Make every word count and ensure your ideas are clearly articulated.
• Ensure your essays are free from grammatical errors and typos. A well-edited essay shows attention to detail and care in your application.
• Have someone you trust read your essays. Feedback can provide new perspectives and help refine your narrative.
• Ensure each essay highlights a different aspect of your personality or experiences. Avoid repeating the same themes.
• If possible, relate your experiences or aspirations to what UC San Diego offers or values. This can demonstrate your interest and fit for the university.

UC San Diego Recommendation Letters

UC San Diego does not require recommendation letters at the time of application. However, it’s important to note that the campus may request them later as part of a supplemental review. This possibility underscores the importance of maintaining strong, positive relationships with teachers, counselors, or mentors who could provide meaningful recommendations if asked.

While UC San Diego does not initially require recommendation letters, their potential importance should not be underestimated. Recommendation letters can provide a unique perspective on your academic and personal qualities. They offer insight into aspects of your character and achievements that other parts of the application might not fully capture.

Recommendation letter tips

Given UC San Diego’s policy on recommendation letters, consider these tips:

• Stay prepared. Have a mental list of potential recommenders who know you well and can vouch for your abilities and character.
• Check your email regularly. Be vigilant about checking your email during the application process, as UC San Diego may request additional materials, including recommendation letters.
• Choose wisely. If asked to submit letters, select individuals who have closely observed your academic performance, personal growth, and extracurricular involvement.

Extracurricular Activities for UC San Diego Application

Extracurricular activities play a significant role in the UC San Diego application process. They provide a fuller picture of who you are beyond academic achievements.

Engaging in activities outside the classroom demonstrates your initiative, interests, and the diverse skills you can bring to the university community. These activities can showcase your leadership, teamwork, time management, and commitment to causes or interests, all of which are valuable traits in the eyes of admissions officers.

UC San Diego values extracurricular activities that align with its core values and the spirit of its various academic programs. When considering what activities to pursue or highlight in your application, consider the following:

• Leadership Roles: Leadership positions in clubs, sports teams, or community organizations can showcase your ability to manage, inspire, and collaborate with others.
• Community Service and Volunteering: Involvement in community service projects or volunteering activities demonstrates a commitment to making a positive impact in society, resonating with UC San Diego’s emphasis on community engagement.
• Academic Clubs and Competitions: Participation in academic-related clubs or competitions, especially those aligning with your intended field of study, can illustrate your passion and dedication to academic pursuits.
• Creative Pursuits: Engaging in the arts, whether it’s music, theater, writing, or visual arts, can demonstrate creativity and the ability to think innovatively.
• Internships and Work Experience: Gaining practical experience in your field of interest through internships or part-time jobs can show your commitment and readiness for career-related endeavors.
• Research Projects: If you’re interested in a research-intensive program, involvement in research projects, even at the high school level, can be particularly appealing.

Extracurricular activities tips

Choosing and presenting your extracurricular activities effectively can significantly enhance your UC San Diego application. Here are some tips to help you showcase these experiences:

• Choose activities that genuinely interest you and align with your future goals. Authenticity in your involvement is more impactful than participating in activities just for the sake of your application.
• Long-term dedication to an activity is often more impressive than short-term involvement in many. It shows commitment, passion, and the ability to persevere.
• Whenever possible, take on leadership positions. These roles exhibit your ability to lead, organize, and influence others.
• Diversify your activities to demonstrate a wide range of skills and interests, from teamwork and leadership to creativity and community service.
• If applicable, include activities related to your intended field of study. This can demonstrate your passion and commitment to your chosen area.
• When describing your activities, focus on the impact you made. Whether it’s a change in your community or personal growth, the effect of your involvement is crucial.
• While it’s important to be involved, balance is essential. Show that you can manage your time effectively between extracurriculars, academics, and other responsibilities.
• Don’t hesitate to include unique or unconventional hobbies or interests. These can make your application stand out and show your individuality.
• Where possible, quantify your achievements or contributions in your activities (for example, funds raised, people impacted).
• Ensure that all information about your activities is honest and accurate. Integrity is a crucial aspect of your application.

UC San Diego Application Requirements

Applying to UC San Diego involves a series of steps designed to evaluate your academic and personal qualifications. Here’s a guide to the application requirements, each with a brief description and a helpful tip.

Mandatory requirements

• UC Application: You must apply through the UC Application Portal . This comprehensive application includes personal and academic information, extracurricular activities, and personal insight questions. Start your application early to give yourself plenty of time to thoughtfully complete each section.
• Essays: Choose and respond to four out of eight personal insight questions. Select questions that allow you to showcase different facets of your personality and experiences.
• Transcripts: Self-report your grades on the application. Official transcripts are only required if you are admitted. Double-check your self-reported grades for accuracy to avoid discrepancies with your official transcripts.
• Application Fee or Waiver: The fee is $80 for U.S. applicants and $95 for international and non-immigrant applicants. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify. Check your eligibility for a fee waiver early in the application process to alleviate financial burden.

Optional requirements

• Standardized Test Scores: UC San Diego is test-free. If submitted, SAT or ACT scores will only be used for course placement or fulfilling minimum requirements after enrollment. Consider submitting scores if you believe they accurately reflect your academic abilities and can aid in course placement.
• Portfolio or Audition Tape: For majors in Music, Theatre and Dance, and Visual Arts, you may submit an optional portfolio or audition tape. If you choose to submit a portfolio or tape, ensure it showcases your best work and reflects your passion for the field.

Other requirements

• English Proficiency Test Scores: This is required if English is not your native language and your secondary education was in a country where English is not the language of instruction. Minimum scores: TOEFL (83), IELTS (7), and Duolingo English Test (115). Prepare for and take these tests well in advance of application deadlines to ensure timely submission of scores.

How to Apply to UC San Diego

Applying to UC San Diego is a structured process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. This step-by-step guide will take you through the entire application journey, from initial preparation to the anticipation of results.

1. Early preparation

Begin by researching UC San Diego’s programs, campus culture, and admission requirements. This will help you understand what the university offers and what it expects from applicants.

Align your high school coursework and extracurricular activities with UC San Diego’s requirements. Focus on maintaining a strong GPA and getting involved in activities that demonstrate your interests and strengths.

2. Gathering application materials

Well before the application opens, start gathering necessary documents such as your transcripts and details about your extracurricular activities.

Start drafting your responses to the Personal Insight Questions. Give yourself plenty of time for revisions to ensure your essays are compelling and polished.

3. Submission of application

Fill out the UC Application. Ensure every section is completed accurately, including your personal information, academic history, and essay responses.

Before submitting, thoroughly review your application for any errors or omissions. It’s helpful to have a counselor or trusted mentor review it as well.

4. Post-submission

Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver request. If you’re applying to a program that requires a portfolio or audition tape, prepare and submit these materials according to the guidelines.

5. Awaiting results

After submitting your application, regularly check your email and the UC San Diego applicant portal for any communications or requests for additional information. During this period, stay engaged with your current academic and extracurricular commitments while you await the results.

How to Submit Supplemental Materials to UC San Diego

Submitting supplemental materials to UC San Diego can enhance your application, especially if you’re interested in pursuing a major in the arts.

UC San Diego allows applicants interested in majors within the Arts departments—Music, Theatre and Dance, and Visual Arts—to submit optional portfolios or audition tapes. This is also open to Undeclared Arts majors who wish to submit a portfolio in their area of primary interest.

These supplemental materials provide an opportunity for the department faculty to assess your talents and skills in the arts, which can inform the admissions committee’s decision.

Supplemental materials for the Arts departments should be submitted through UC San Diego’s official portal. To access this portal , you first need to complete your main application to UC San Diego. Your application ID number from the UC Application will be required to submit your art supplements.

Step-by-step guide

• Before submitting any supplemental materials, ensure your UC San Diego application is complete.
• After completing your UC Application, note your application ID number. This will be essential for the next steps.
• Compile your portfolio or prepare your audition tape. Ensure that these materials are polished and best represent your abilities in your chosen art form.
• Using your application ID, log in to the UC San Diego portal designated for supplemental material submission.
• Follow the instructions on the portal to upload your portfolio or audition tape.
• Before submitting, review your materials to ensure they are complete and accurate.
• After submitting, you should receive a confirmation. Ensure that your submission has been successfully received.
• The department faculty will review your submitted materials and share their evaluations with the admissions committee. This process is part of the holistic review of your application.

By carefully following these steps, you can successfully submit your supplemental materials to UC San Diego, potentially strengthening your application for a major in the arts.

UC San Diego Scholarships and Financial Aid

UC San Diego offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support students in their academic journey. These can be categorized into two main types: merit scholarships and restricted scholarships.

Merit scholarships

Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement as reflected in your UC admissions application. Notable merit scholarships at UC San Diego include the Regents Scholarship, Ellen and Roger Revelle Scholarship, and the National Merit Scholarship . They recognize outstanding academic performance and do not consider financial need.

Restricted scholarships

Restricted scholarships are awarded based on a combination of academic merit and additional criteria, such as demonstrated financial need, specific field of interest, or leadership qualities.

To qualify for these scholarships, you may need to provide supporting documentation to verify how you meet the restricted criteria. This additional criteria component allows UC San Diego to support students with diverse backgrounds and needs.

Scholarship tips

Understanding and utilizing UC San Diego’s financial resources can significantly ease the financial burden of college and allow you to focus more on your academic and personal growth. Consider these tips when applying for a scholarship:

• Complete your financial aid and scholarship applications as early as possible. This increases your chances of receiving aid and allows you to plan your finances better.
• Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship or financial aid program. Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.
• For merit-based scholarships, focus on showcasing your academic achievements and any special talents or skills.
• For need-based scholarships, be transparent and detailed when providing financial information.
• Ensure that all documentation, such as transcripts, financial records, and recommendation letters, is accurate and up-to-date.
• Apart from UC San Diego’s scholarships, look for external scholarships for which you may be eligible.
• Don’t hesitate to seek advice from UC San Diego’s financial aid office. They can provide guidance on the application process and available options.

Does UC San Diego Offer Early Decision?

UC San Diego does not offer an Early Decision admission option.

Unlike some universities that allow students to apply and receive a decision earlier in the academic year, UC San Diego follows a single regular admissions timeline . This means that all applicants have the same deadline for submitting their application and will receive their admissions decisions around the same time.

This approach ensures that all students have equal opportunity to prepare and submit their applications without the pressure of an early commitment. It also allows applicants more time to consider their college options and make a well-informed decision.

UC San Diego Application Deadlines

Applying to UC San Diego requires adherence to specific deadlines to ensure your application is considered. Here’s a timeline to guide you through the process:

• Application Start: August 1. This is when you can start filling out your application on the UC Application Portal. Use this time to gather all necessary information and begin working on your application components, including personal essays and detailing extracurricular activities.
• Application Deadline: November 30. It’s crucial to complete and review all sections of your application thoroughly before this date. Ensure you leave enough time for any last-minute revisions or technical issues that might arise.
• Release of Admission Decisions: March 31. During this period, regularly check your email and the applicant portal for any updates. Admission decisions will include acceptances, waitlist offers, and denials.
• Admission Acceptance Deadline: May 1. It’s important to carefully consider your options and make an informed decision by this date. If you decide to attend UC San Diego, follow the instructions provided in your acceptance letter to confirm your enrollment.

Adhering to these deadlines is crucial for a successful application to UC San Diego. Planning and time management play key roles in ensuring a smooth application process.

How Hard is It to Get into UC San Diego?

Gaining admission to UC San Diego can be challenging due to its competitive nature. The acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 is 25%. This statistic alone indicates the selective nature of the university, where less than a quarter of applicants manage to secure admission.

The academic profile of admitted students is a critical factor in the selection process. For instance, the middle 50% GPA range for the Fall 2023 admitted freshman class was between 4.11 and 4.29.

This highlights the high academic achievements of those who are successful in their applications. UC San Diego’s shift to a test-free admission policy means that SAT or ACT scores are not considered, placing greater weight on other aspects of the application, such as high school grades and the rigor of courses.

The university employs a holistic review process, considering various elements beyond academic achievements. These include the applicant’s extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, personal insight responses, and unique life experiences. However, it’s important to note that UC San Diego does not consider demonstrated interest or interviews during the admissions process.

Benefits of Attending UC San Diego

UC San Diego’s numerous benefits provide a fulfilling and enriching college experience.

Academic Excellence

UC San Diego is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty. The university offers a wide range of majors and courses, allowing students to explore diverse fields of study. The faculty includes leading researchers and scholars, allowing students to learn from some of their fields’ best minds. This environment fosters intellectual growth and prepares students for successful careers post-graduation.

Research Opportunities

The university is a hub for research, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage in innovative and groundbreaking projects. These research experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems, enhancing their learning and making them more competitive in the job market. UC San Diego’s research initiatives cover various areas, from science and engineering to arts and humanities.

Vibrant Campus Life

UC San Diego’s campus life is dynamic and diverse, with many student organizations, clubs, and activities. This vibrant environment enables students to explore their interests outside of academics, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. The university’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all students.

Strategic Location

Located in La Jolla, San Diego, UC San Diego is positioned in one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the United States. The location offers students access to numerous recreational and professional opportunities. From internships in various industries to enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean, the strategic location enriches students’ college experience.

How Can an International Student Get into UC San Diego?

International students aspiring to join UC San Diego must manage specific application requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

• Academic Qualifications: Check if your high school qualifications align with UC San Diego’s requirements. International qualifications such as the Abitur, A-levels, or Higher Secondary Certificate are recognized but must be equivalent to a high school diploma in the U.S.
• GPA Requirement: Aim for a GPA of 3.4 or higher in your high school coursework. Since UC San Diego does not consider SAT or ACT scores for admissions, your GPA plays a significant role in your application.
• English Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL (minimum score of 83), IELTS (minimum score of 7), or the Duolingo English Test (minimum score of 115).
• Selective Majors: If you are applying to a selective major, have a backup option ready. UC San Diego advises international students to choose an alternate non-selective major in their application. This can increase your chances of acceptance, especially if your first-choice major has limited enrollment.
• Personal Insight Questions: The application includes personal insight questions which are your opportunity to showcase your personality, achievements, and motivations. Choose questions that best reflect your experiences and respond thoughtfully, as these answers give the admissions committee a glimpse into who you are beyond your academic records.

• Preparing Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your high school transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores for English proficiency. Ensure these documents are translated into English, if necessary, and are readily available for submission.
• Understanding UCSD’s Culture and Values: Familiarize yourself with UC San Diego’s values and culture. Understanding what the university stands for can help you tailor your application to align with its ethos and demonstrate how you would be a good fit for the campus community.
• Financial Planning: International students must also demonstrate financial solvency for their studies. Explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid, and understand the cost of living in San Diego to prepare a realistic budget.
• Visa Process: Once admitted, you must navigate the visa process. UC San Diego offers resources and guidance for obtaining a student visa. Ensure you understand the requirements and timelines to avoid delays in your visa application.
• Health Insurance: Arrange for health insurance, as it is mandatory for all international students at UC San Diego. Check the university’s guidelines for acceptable insurance plans.
• Housing Arrangements: Consider your housing options early. UC San Diego offers on-campus housing, but spaces are limited—research off-campus accommodations as well, considering the proximity to the university and your budget.
• Cultural Adaptation: Prepare for cultural adaptation. Moving to a new country for studies can be challenging, and UC San Diego provides resources to help international students adjust to life in the U.S. and on campus.

By meticulously following these steps and showcasing a strong academic and personal profile, international students can significantly enhance their chances of admission to UC San Diego. The university’s commitment to diversity and global perspectives makes it an ideal choice for students worldwide.

How to Get into UC San Diego as a Transfer Student

Transferring to UC San Diego involves meeting specific criteria to enhance your chances of admission. Here is a comprehensive list of requirements you need to fulfill:

Complete the Required Coursework

• English Composition: Complete two courses in English composition.
• Mathematics: Complete one course in mathematical concepts and quantitative reasoning.
• Additional Subjects: Take four more courses from at least two categories: arts and humanities, physical and biological sciences, or social and behavioral sciences. Each course should be 3 semester (4-5 quarter) units.

Major Preparation

If you are applying to competitive departments like Biological Sciences, Engineering, or Data Science, complete the minimum preparation coursework required for these majors. Your application will be evaluated based on the number and grades of courses completed, along with your cumulative GPA.

Maintain a Strong GPA

While UC San Diego does not specify a minimum GPA for transfer students, successful applicants often have GPAs that exceed the minimum standards.

Accumulate Transferable Units

You need to complete at least 60 UC-transferable semester (90 quarter) units by the end of the spring term preceding your admission.

Exam Credits

Credits from AP, IB, and A-level exams are recognized. Make sure your exams and scores align with UC’s credit policies.

Restrictions on ESL and PE Courses

Limitations exist on the number of units from ESL and Physical Education courses that can count towards the transferable unit requirement.

Answer Personal Insight Questions

You must respond to one required question and choose three out of seven additional questions, providing unique insights into your experiences and aspirations.

Portfolio Review (for Arts Majors)

If you are applying to majors in the Arts, consider submitting a portfolio or audition as part of your application.

Selective Majors

Be aware of selective majors with limited enrollment and prepare to complete the necessary courses.

Can an Average Student Get into UC San Diego?

Gaining admission to UC San Diego as an “average” student depends on factors beyond GPA and test scores. While UC San Diego is known for its competitive admissions process, some aspects can boost an average student’s chances:

• Strong Coursework: UC San Diego values rigorous academic coursework. An average student who challenges themselves with advanced classes, especially in areas related to their intended major, can stand out.
• Extracurricular Involvement: Active participation in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service demonstrates a well-rounded profile.
• Personal Insight Questions: These essays are your opportunity to showcase your unique experiences, challenges overcome, and personal growth. A compelling story can significantly impact your application.
• Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations from teachers or counselors who can attest to your academic potential and character are valuable.
• Special Talents or Backgrounds: UC San Diego considers various factors, including talents, achievements, and diverse backgrounds. Unique skills or experiences can make your application more appealing.

Remember, UC San Diego practices a holistic review process. This means every part of your application is considered in the context of your circumstances

and the overall applicant pool. It’s not just about having top grades but about presenting a well-rounded, compelling application that reflects your potential to contribute to and benefit from the UC San Diego community.

How to Get into UC San Diego with a Low GPA

Getting into UC San Diego with a lower GPA can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are strategies and aspects you should focus on to enhance your application:

Strengthen Other Application Components

• Robust Extracurriculars: Engage in extracurricular activities demonstrating leadership, commitment, and passion. This can include clubs, sports, volunteer work, or personal projects.
• Outstanding Essays: Write compelling and thoughtful personal insight questions. These essays are your chance to explain your story, including any challenges that may have impacted your GPA.
• Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can vouch for your abilities and character.

Address Academic Shortcomings

• Explain Circumstances: If extenuating circumstances affected your academic performance, such as personal or family challenges, explain these in your application.
• Show Improvement: Demonstrate an upward trend in your grades. Improvement over time can indicate resilience.

Focus on Major Preparation

• Relevant Coursework: If you have a low overall GPA but strong grades in courses related to your intended major, emphasize this in your application.
• Major-Specific Preparation: Complete the required preparation courses for your intended major, especially if it’s selective. Success in these courses can show your readiness for the major despite a lower overall GPA.

Alternative Pathways

• Community College Transfer: Consider starting at a community college and then transferring to UC San Diego. Transfer students are often evaluated more on their college-level coursework.
• Gap Year or Other Experiences: A gap year or other experiences such as work or travel can provide additional skills and maturity, making your application stronger when you reapply.

What Makes UC San Diego Unique?

UC San Diego’s uniqueness stems from a combination of factors that create a dynamic and enriching educational experience. This prestigious institution is renowned for its innovative approach to education, vibrant campus life, and groundbreaking research initiatives.

Pioneering Research and Academic Excellence

The university’s focus on scientific discovery and innovation is evident in its numerous research centers and laboratories. Students can work alongside leading researchers, contributing to advancements in various fields.

This hands-on research experience is invaluable, preparing students for successful careers in academia, industry, and beyond. The university’s academic programs are not just about imparting knowledge but about creating new knowledge, making UC San Diego an ideal place for those eager to explore, discover, and innovate.

Diverse and Inclusive Community

The university is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all, irrespective of background, culture, or perspective. This commitment is reflected in the diverse makeup of the student body and the array of cultural and social organizations on campus. Students at UC San Diego are encouraged to embrace their identities and share their unique perspectives, fostering a rich learning environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Unique College System

What truly sets UC San Diego apart is its unique college system. The university comprises seven colleges with distinct personalities, general education requirements, and student communities. This system combines the advantages of a small college – close-knit communities and personalized support – with the benefits of a large, top-tier research university.

Each college has its own traditions, events, and even residential spaces, providing a sense of belonging and community. This approach allows students to enjoy a more intimate college experience while still having access to a large university’s vast resources and opportunities.

What Does the UC San Diego Application Look Like?

The UC San Diego application is a comprehensive process designed to capture a holistic view of each applicant. It encompasses various components that allow students to showcase their academic achievements, personal insights, and individual experiences.

• Application Period and Process: The application period for UC San Diego opens on August 1st for editing and runs from October 1st to November 30th for submission. During this period, students can apply through the University of California application system used by all UC campuses.
• Personal Insight Questions: A critical component of the application, the Personal Insight Questions, requires students to answer four out of eight questions. Each response is limited to 350 words and allows applicants to share more about their life experiences, challenges, aspirations, and what makes them unique.
• Academic History: Applicants must provide a comprehensive academic journey record. This includes information about coursework, GPA, and any honors or advanced-level classes taken. UC San Diego looks for students who have challenged themselves academically and have a strong academic record.
• Extracurricular Activities: The application also asks for details about extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and other experiences demonstrating student engagement outside the classroom. This section helps the admissions committee understand the applicant’s interests, skills, and contributions to their community.
• Major Selection: Applicants must indicate their intended major and are advised to select an alternate major, particularly when applying to more competitive programs. This aspect of the application helps the university understand the academic interests and goals of the student.
• Additional Information Section: This part of the application allows students to provide any other relevant information that wasn’t covered in other sections, such as unique family circumstances, challenges faced, or additional accomplishments.
• International Applicant Requirements: For international students, additional requirements include demonstrating English proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test and meeting specific academic qualifications based on their country’s educational system.

Is UC San Diego a Good School for You?

Whether UC San Diego is the right school for you depends on various factors, including your academic goals, preferred learning environment, and personal interests.

Academic Rigor and Opportunities

UC San Diego is an excellent choice for students seeking a challenging academic environment. Known for its strong emphasis on STEM fields, the university offers various programs across various disciplines. It is an ideal place for students eager to engage in scholarly inquiry and innovation. The faculty at UC San Diego are leaders in their fields, providing students with mentorship and guidance crucial for academic and professional growth.

Campus Culture and Community

The campus culture at UC San Diego is characterized by its diversity, inclusivity, and vibrant student life. This environment is perfect for students who value a rich cultural experience and a wide range of perspectives. The unique college system at UC San Diego also contributes to a sense of community, making it easier for students to find their niche and form lasting connections.

The university hosts numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities, ensuring that there is always something for everyone. If you’re looking for a campus that offers a blend of academic rigor and a dynamic social scene, UC San Diego could be the right fit for you.

Location and Lifestyle

UC San Diego’s location in La Jolla, California, is another significant factor to consider. The university’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean offers a beautiful backdrop and many outdoor activities. UC San Diego’s location will likely appeal to you if you enjoy a lifestyle that balances academics with outdoor recreation and urban exploration.

The region’s climate, beaches, and cultural opportunities contribute to a well-rounded college experience. Additionally, being in a city known for its biotech and tech industries, students at UC San Diego benefit from proximity to numerous internships and job opportunities in these sectors.

How selective is UC San Diego?

UC San Diego’s selectivity is a crucial aspect for prospective students. The university’s acceptance rate offers insight into the level of competition and the standards expected from applicants.

In the Fall of 2023, the admit rate for first-year students was 25%, reflecting the middle 50% GPA range of 4.11-4.29​​. This data suggests that UC San Diego prioritizes academic excellence. Applicants typically need strong academic credentials to be competitive in the admission process. The university’s test-free policy means that SAT or ACT scores are not considered, placing greater emphasis on GPA, coursework, and other aspects of the student’s profile.

Additionally, selectivity varies across different majors. UC San Diego has identified certain majors as ‘selective majors’ due to limited enrollment capacity. These include Business Economics, Biological Sciences, Data Science, Engineering, and Public Health​​. For these majors, the admission process is more competitive, focusing on specific prerequisite courses and a higher standard for GPA.

Understanding UC San Diego’s selectivity is vital for applicants. It informs them about the competitiveness of the process and the level of academic achievement required. Prospective students should aim for a strong GPA and a well-rounded application to enhance their chances of admission.

Should You Apply to UC San Diego?

Deciding whether to apply to UC San Diego involves several considerations. Here are key points to help you assess if UC San Diego is the right fit for you:

• Academic Fit: Evaluate if UC San Diego offers academic programs that match your interests and career goals. Given its diverse range of selective and non-selective majors, it’s crucial to identify if your desired field of study aligns with the university’s strengths.
• Competitiveness: Consider your academic competitiveness based on UC San Diego’s recent admission statistics . Your academic credentials should be strong, with a median GPA of 4.11-4.29 for admitted students and an anticipated acceptance rate of 25% for the Class of 2027​​​​.
• Campus Environment: Reflect on the campus environment and student life. UC San Diego is known for its innovative spirit and research opportunities. Assess if this aligns with your personal and academic aspirations.
• Financial Considerations: Analyze the financial aspect of studying at UC San Diego, including tuition costs, availability of financial aid, and scholarships. It’s essential to ensure that attending UC San Diego is financially feasible.
• Career Opportunities: Investigate the career support and internship opportunities at UC San Diego. Strong career preparation and networking opportunities can significantly impact your professional development.
• Location and Lifestyle: Consider if UC San Diego’s location in La Jolla, California, suits your lifestyle preferences. The campus environment, climate, and local community can influence your college experience.

Evaluating these factors will help determine if UC San Diego aligns with your academic goals, career aspirations, and personal preferences. Making an informed decision is key to ensuring a fulfilling college experience.

How Does UC San Diego Review Applications?

UC San Diego employs a holistic review process to evaluate applications. This comprehensive approach ensures that various aspects of an applicant’s profile are considered, providing a complete picture of their potential. The university does not consider SAT or ACT scores, focusing instead on other critical factors​​​​.

• Academic Achievement: UC San Diego places significant emphasis on academic performance. The GPA, high school curriculum rigor, and college preparatory course grades are critical. For the Class of 2027, the mid-50% GPA range was 4.11-4.29, indicative of the high academic standards expected by the university​​.
• Coursework and Major Preparation: The university assesses the relevance and rigor of the coursework undertaken, especially for selective majors. Completing challenging courses related to the intended major can strengthen an application. For transfer students, specific preparation courses are required for admission to certain departments and majors​​​​.
• Personal Insight Questions: Personal Insight Questions are a vital application component. They offer insights into an applicant’s personality, experiences, and potential UC San Diego community contributions. Applicants must answer these questions thoughtfully, showcasing their unique perspectives and experiences​​​​.
• Extracurricular Activities and Achievements: UC San Diego values diverse experiences, including leadership roles, community service, and other extracurricular activities. These aspects demonstrate an applicant’s character, skills, and potential to contribute to campus life.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The university is committed to diversity and inclusion. Applications are reviewed with consideration of the applicant’s background, challenges faced, and the context of their achievements.
• International Applicant Considerations: Additional factors such as English language proficiency and educational credentials relevant to their country’s educational system are considered​​​​for international students.

UC San Diego’s application review process is designed to identify students who excel academically and bring diverse experiences and perspectives to the campus community. Understanding this process can help applicants present a strong, well-rounded application.

Does UC San Diego Require Interviews?

When considering UC San Diego as a potential choice for higher education, it’s crucial to understand the admissions process, particularly regarding interviews. UC San Diego does not incorporate interviews in their admissions procedure.

This means that prospective students are not required to participate in an interview during the application process. Instead, UC San Diego focuses on a holistic review of each applicant. This approach includes thoroughly assessing academic achievements, personal insight responses, and other application materials.

The absence of interviews in UC San Diego’s admissions process underscores the importance of the other application components. Since there is no opportunity for a face-to-face interview, it’s vital for applicants to effectively communicate their strengths, achievements, and aspirations through their application documents.

The university evaluates applicants based on their academic record, the courses’ rigor, personal insight questions, and extracurricular activities, among other criteria.

For international students, demonstrating English proficiency remains essential. However, this is typically accomplished through standardized test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test rather than an interview.

What Extracurriculars Do You Need for UC San Diego?

Engaging in extracurricular activities is essential to the UC San Diego admissions process. These activities reflect students’ interests, skills, and commitment beyond academic achievements. Here is a list of extracurricular activities that can strengthen your application to UC San Diego:

• Leadership Roles: Holding positions such as club president, team captain, or student government officer demonstrates leadership skills and a capacity to influence and organize others.
• Community Service: Volunteering for community service projects shows a sense of responsibility and commitment to positively impacting society.
• Arts and Culture: Participation in arts-related activities like music, theater, or visual arts indicates creative talents and the ability to think innovatively.
• Sports: Involvement in sports can showcase teamwork , perseverance, and the ability to balance academics with other commitments.
• Academic Clubs: Membership in academic clubs or societies, especially in areas related to your intended major, reveals a deep interest in your field of study.
• Research Projects: Engaging in research projects, particularly those that lead to presentations or publications, can be impressive, showcasing intellectual curiosity and dedication.
• Internships and Work Experience: Gaining work experience through internships or part-time jobs shows practical skills and a readiness for the professional world.
• Global Exposure: Experiences like studying abroad or learning a new language demonstrate adaptability and an appreciation for diverse cultures.

It’s important to remember that quality trumps quantity. UC San Diego values meaningful participation and leadership in a few activities over mere membership in many. Thus, focusing on activities that you are genuinely passionate about and where you have made a significant contribution is more impactful.

What Should You Write About in Your Personal Statement to Get into UC San Diego?

Your personal statement for UC San Diego is a platform to narrate your unique story. It’s more than a summary of achievements; it’s a window into your personality, motivations, and aspirations. Here are key themes to consider:

Highlighting Individuality

Express what makes you unique. Maybe it’s a unique cultural background, a challenging life experience you’ve overcome, or a specific passion that drives you. You aim to show the admissions committee who you are beyond grades and test scores.

Demonstrating Intellectual Curiosity

UC San Diego values students who love learning and want to explore new academic horizons. Share instances where you’ve gone beyond the classroom to pursue knowledge, such as participating in research projects or academic competitions.

Showcasing Leadership and Initiative

Discuss any leadership roles you’ve undertaken and how they’ve shaped you. Leadership isn’t limited to titled positions; it can also be reflected in how you have influenced or contributed to your community or school.

Reflecting on Challenges and Growth

Talk about your challenges and how they’ve contributed to your growth. Colleges, including UC San Diego, appreciate students who can learn and grow from their experiences.

Aligning with UC San Diego’s Values

Research UC San Diego’s mission and values. Reflect on how these align with your goals and experiences. Perhaps the university’s emphasis on innovation resonates with your own creative projects, or its commitment to community service mirrors your volunteer experiences.

Remember, your personal statement is your voice in the application process. It should be authentic, reflective, and articulate. Use it to complement your academic record and extracurriculars, providing a full picture of yourself and what you bring to the UC San Diego community.

How Do you Write a UC San Diego Supplemental Essay?

Crafting a standout supplemental essay is crucial when applying to UC San Diego. This section of your application allows you to present yourself beyond grades and test scores. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively write your UC San Diego supplemental essay:

• Understand the Prompt: Begin by reading and understanding the essay prompt. UC San Diego seeks reflective, thoughtful responses that align with the university’s values.
• Brainstorm Ideas: Before writing, brainstorm ideas that reflect your personality, experiences, and aspirations. Consider what makes you unique and how it relates to your desire to study at UC San Diego.
• Create an Outline: Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. An effective essay should have an introduction that hooks the reader, a body that elaborates your points, and a conclusion that ties everything together.
• Be Authentic: Authenticity is key. Admissions officers are looking for a genuine insight into who you are. Share personal stories or experiences that have shaped you.
• Showcase Your Interest in UC San Diego: Tailor your essay to demonstrate your interest in UC San Diego. Discuss specific programs, research opportunities, or campus culture that attract you to the university.
• Proofread and Edit: Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and typos. Read it aloud or have someone else review it for clarity and flow.
• Stay Within the Word Limit: Adhere to the word limit. Being concise yet comprehensive shows your ability to communicate effectively.

Remember, the supplemental essay is your chance to stand out. Make it count!

What Enrichment Opportunities Will Help You Get into UC San Diego?

Gaining admission to UC San Diego requires more than just academic excellence. Participating in enrichment opportunities can significantly enhance your application. Here are some activities that can bolster your chances:

• Research Projects: Engage in research projects, particularly in areas related to your intended major. UC San Diego values students who show a passion for discovery and innovation.
• Community Service: Involvement in community service demonstrates your commitment to societal contributions. Highlight any volunteer work or community initiatives you have participated in.
• Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, or other organizations showcases your ability to lead and work collaboratively.
• Internships: Pursuing internships, especially in fields relevant to your desired major, can provide practical experience and a deeper understanding of your field of interest.
• Arts and Creativity: Participation in the arts or creative projects can display your diverse talents and ability to think outside the box.
• Summer Programs: Attend summer programs or workshops that focus on academic enrichment or leadership development.
• Advanced Coursework: Taking advanced courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes, if available, can show your readiness for college-level work.

Remember, the goal is to demonstrate your well-roundedness, commitment, and the unique attributes you’ll bring to the UC San Diego community.

Do You Need to Take AP Courses to Get into UC San Diego?

Enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses can significantly affect your UC San Diego application, but it’s not an absolute requirement. Here’s what you need to know:

• AP Courses Show Academic Rigor: AP courses are considered challenging and can demonstrate your ability to handle college-level coursework. UC San Diego values applicants who challenge themselves academically.
• Not Mandatory, But Beneficial: While AP courses are not mandatory for admission to UC San Diego, they can strengthen your application. They show your willingness to go beyond the basic curriculum.
• Context Matters: Admission officers consider the context of your school’s offerings. If your school offers a wide range of AP courses, taking a few can be advantageous. However, your application won’t be negatively impacted if your school offers limited AP courses.
• Balance is Key: Balancing AP coursework with your overall high school experience is important. Taking too many AP classes at the expense of your GPA or extracurricular involvement might not be beneficial.
• Alternative Advanced Courses: If AP courses are unavailable, consider other advanced options like International Baccalaureate (IB) or honors courses. These are also viewed favorably.
• AP Scores and College Credit: Good scores on AP exams can potentially earn you college credit, allowing you to skip certain introductory courses at UC San Diego.
• Overall Academic Performance: UC San Diego looks at your overall academic performance. A strong GPA, a rigorous curriculum, and a demonstrated interest in your chosen field can compensate for the lack of AP courses.

Does UC San Diego Accept AP Credit?

AP credits are a valuable asset for prospective students looking to attend UC San Diego. The university recognizes students’ efforts in AP courses and examinations, offering them college credit for their achievements. This credit can significantly influence a student’s academic journey, potentially influencing their course load and progression through their chosen major.

Understanding AP Credit Transfer

UC San Diego accepts AP credits under specific conditions. The university offers credit for scores that typically start from 3 or higher, although this can vary depending on the subject.

These credits can be applied toward general education requirements or even prerequisites for more advanced courses. However, it’s important to note that the applicability of these credits might differ based on the student’s major and the college they are enrolled in within the university.

Maximizing Your AP Credits

To make the most of your AP credits, it’s essential to understand how they fit into your academic plan. These credits can provide a significant head start for students planning to major in fields where their AP credits align with required courses.

Conversely, for those whose majors do not directly correlate with their AP subjects, these credits can still be valuable for fulfilling general education requirements, thereby freeing up time and space in their schedules for other academic pursuits.

By acknowledging AP achievements, UC San Diego demonstrates its commitment to rewarding academic excellence and providing students with a more flexible and personalized educational experience.

Will UC San Diego Look at Your Social Media?

The impact of social media on college admissions is a topic of much discussion. Applicants to UC San Diego often wonder if their social media profiles will be scrutinized as part of the admissions process. Understanding the university’s stance on this matter is crucial for applicants preparing their applications.

Currently, there is no indication that UC San Diego systematically reviews applicants’ social media accounts as part of the admissions process. The university primarily focuses on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal insight questions, and other formal aspects of the application. However, this does not mean that students should not be mindful of their online presence.

While social media checks might not be a standard procedure, students should still consider the potential impact of their online behavior. When a student’s social media activity is brought to the university’s attention, especially if it involves inappropriate or offensive content, it could affect their admission prospects. Therefore, maintaining a positive digital footprint is advisable.

Will Visiting UC San Diego Help You Get In?

Campus visits are a common activity for prospective students, often seen as an opportunity to demonstrate interest in a particular university. However, when it comes to UC San Diego, many applicants wonder if visiting the campus directly impacts their chances of admission.

Campus Visits and Admissions Decisions

UC San Diego does not consider demonstrated interest, including campus visits, as a factor in its admissions decisions. The university’s admissions process is primarily centered on academic performance, personal achievements, and the application’s content, including personal insight questions. A visit to the campus, therefore, does not influence an applicant’s likelihood of being accepted.

The Value of Visiting UC San Diego

While a campus visit might not directly affect your admission chances, it offers other

significant benefits. Exploring the campus allows prospective students to get a feel for the university environment, understand the layout of the campus, and visualize themselves as part of the UC San Diego community. Additionally, visits can provide valuable insights into student life, academic facilities, and the overall atmosphere of the university.

Making the Most of Your Visit

If you visit UC San Diego, plan your trip to maximize the experience. Attend a guided tour, visit academic departments of interest, and try to interact with current students and faculty. These activities can offer a deeper understanding of what UC San Diego offers and help you decide whether it aligns with your academic and personal goals.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered the essential aspects of applying to UC San Diego. From understanding the importance of GPA to navigating UC San Diego’s specific application requirements, we’ve delved into what it takes to build a strong application.

The competition to get into UC San Diego is undoubtedly fierce, but don’t let this discourage you. Instead, use it as motivation to elevate your application. Focus on showcasing your unique qualities, strengths, and experiences.

Remember, it’s not just about academic achievements; your personal stories, passions, and the way you present yourself in your application can make a significant difference. Stay authentic, be proactive in your preparations, and maintain a positive mindset throughout the process.

We can help you figure out how to get into UC San Diego

At AdmissionSight , we understand the nuances and challenges of the college admissions process. Our expertise lies in helping students like you navigate these complexities and enhance your chances of getting into top universities like UC San Diego.

We offer personalized guidance, from fine-tuning your essays to strategizing your extracurricular profile. If you’re aiming for a spot at UC San Diego, let us help you make your application stand out.

Take the first step towards your UC San Diego journey. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can work towards turning your college aspirations into reality.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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UC Essay Prompts 2023-24

Uc essay prompts 2023-2024.

Students applying to UC schools must be prepared to answer the UC prompts as part of the application process. Each year, the University of California receives over 200,000 undergraduate freshmen applications. An important part of these applications are the UC Personal Insight Questions, also known as UC PIQs. In this article, we’ll break down the UC essay prompts to help you ace your UC application.

In addition to reviewing each of the UC essay prompts, we will discuss unique aspects of the UC application. We will also share tips to help you choose the UC prompts that are best suited to you. Finally, we’ll share additional resources that can aid you in writing your UC PIQs, including UC essay examples.

Applying to the University of California

Many of the University of California’s campuses are ranked among the best colleges in the nation. Not only that, the UCs are also some of the most affordable schools, especially for California residents. So, it’s no surprise the number of students that end up applying to UC schools. With so many qualified applicants, it’s important to start early and put dedicated time and effort into your UC PIQs.

Ready to learn more about UC Personal Insight Questions? Before we dive into the UC PIQs, we’d like to share a bit about the UC application process . The UC admissions process differs in several ways from many other U.S. schools. Here are a few key facts to keep in mind before you start responding to the UC essay prompts:

You must apply through the UC system’s application, known as UC Apply .

The UC schools do not accept the Common Application or the Coalition Application. As such, they will not see the personal statement that many schools require you to submit via these applications. Ensure anything you want to share comes across in your responses to the UC Personal Insight Questions.

The UC Apply deadline is November 30 .

The UC schools do not have special deadlines like early action or early decision. However, their general application deadline is earlier than it is at most other schools. The UC application is available to fill out from October 1 to November 30 each year. As a result, we recommend choosing your UC essay prompts as soon as they become available. That way, you can write several drafts of your UC essays and polish them in advance of the November deadline.

The UCs use a holistic admissions process.

After reading your UC Personal Insight Questions, each UC school will consider your application as a whole. That means your grades, courses, special research projects, talents, and high school rank, among many other factors, are all important. As such, put effort into every part of your application. Notably, the UC schools are test blind , meaning they do not review test scores. Hence, do not lose sight of the importance of answering your UC prompts fully. Each of the UC Personal Insight Questions is a chance to prove yourself as a candidate for admission. 

We hope this provides more context as to how the UC Personal Insight Questions fit into the broader application process. Next, we’ll explore the UC schools more in-depth.

How many UCs are there?

There are ten University of California schools in total. However, only nine have undergraduate programs. These nine schools are the following, in order of most selective to least selective:

UC Acceptance Rates

• UCLA – 9% acceptance rate
• UC Berkeley – 11% acceptance rate
• UC Irvine – 21% acceptance rate
• UC San Diego – 24% acceptance rate
• UC Santa Barbara – 26% acceptance rate
• UC Davis – 37% acceptance rate
• UC Santa Cruz – 47% acceptance rate
• UC Riverside – 69% acceptance rate
• UC Merced – 89% acceptance rate

Several of these schools rank among the best colleges in California . Keep in mind that you can apply to all nine with the same application using UC Apply. While this makes applying convenient, it also means that all the UCs you apply to will receive the same UC essays. As a result, your UC Berkeley essays will be identical to your UC Davis essays and UC Irvine essays.

With this in mind, you might be wondering how to make your application stand out to a specific UC. First, start by reviewing the admissions processes for each of the UC schools you wish to attend. Then, identify key characteristics those UC schools are looking for in their applicants.

For example, consider UCLA. A successful UCLA application will demonstrate a student’s academic and personal achievements, despite any challenges they may have faced. Touching on these themes in your UCLA essay can help you build a strong UCLA application.

Make sure that your UC essays reflect your best characteristics in some form. Since the UC schools are part of the same system, they share many of the same values. Common characteristics they are looking for include creativity, problem-solving, persistence, leadership, and diversity. Use your responses to UC essay prompts to highlight how you demonstrate these qualities.

Which UCs require essay prompts?

All of the UCs require students to respond to UC Personal Insight Questions as part of their UC application. When you submit your responses to the UC PIQs on UC Apply, you’ll select which UCs to send them to. Unlike the school-specific nature of some supplemental essays, your UC essays should not mention a specific school. They are, instead, solely focused on your personal experiences.  

Furthermore, each of the UCs you apply to will review your application independently. Schools are not aware of which other UCs you applied to. Nor are they able to tell whether you were admitted to another UC. In short, although the UC essay prompts are the same at every school, they are evaluated separately by each school.

How many UC Personal Insight Questions are required?

Freshmen are required to submit responses to four of the eight available UC Personal Insight Questions. Meanwhile, transfer students must only respond to three. However, in addition to these UC essay prompts, transfer students must also submit a response to one additional required question.

Later, we’ll explore each of the eight UC PIQ prompts in depth. We’ll also share tips for selecting the right UC PIQs for you. Before we get to the prompts, let’s look at how long your responses to the UC essay prompts should be.

How long are UC Personal Insight Questions?

Each of your four responses to the UC Personal Insight Questions can be up to 350 words long. With limited space, you should focus on sharing only the most important reflections and details to strengthen your story. Once you’ve written drafts, ask a friend or mentor to help edit your responses to the UC essay prompts. A second set of eyes can help you remove unnecessary words or phrases, finding space for more critical ideas. 

While 350 words for one essay is not a lot of space, remember you are writing four essays in total. As such, you have 1400 words in total to express who you are in your UC PIQs. 

Next, we’ll share the UC essay prompts that you can respond to for your PIQs. 

What are the UC Essay Prompts?

As we mentioned above, there are eight UC essay prompts. Remember, all eight UC essay prompts are the same no matter which school you are applying to. So, you can use the same prompt for your UC Irvine essay, UC San Diego essay, or UC Davis essay. 

Here are the eight UC prompts for the UC PIQs:

1	Leadership	Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
2	Creativity	Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
3	Talent/Skill	What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
4	Educational Opportunity or Barrier	Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
5	Challenge	Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
6	Academic Subject	Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
7	Positive Impact	What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
8	Strong Candidate	Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Below, we’ll explore each UC essay prompt in greater detail. And, we’ll provide tips and reflection questions to ensure your responses answer the prompt effectively .

UC Essay Prompt #1: Leadership

The first of the eight UC essay prompts is about leadership. The question is as follows:

UC Personal Insight Question #1

Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time..

The word leadership often calls to mind a formal title, such as president of a club or head of student council. However, that is not how these UC prompts define leadership. In fact, the UC essay prompts allude to the fact that leadership occurs in many different scenarios. Colleges also value informal forms of leadership, such as the examples listed in the prompt.

Importantly, the UC essay prompts ask for an example of your leadership. Be sure to provide a specific example in your essay, rather than simply stating that you are a leader. For instance, maybe you stood up for a friend who was being bullied. Or maybe you created a study group to help your classmates do well on a difficult test. These are instances of informal leadership that would be excellent ideas for UC PIQ prompts.

Writing UC Personal Insight Questions about leadership can be intimidating if you feel like you haven’t had much formal leadership experience. However, almost everyone has had some experience where they’ve positively influenced others. Use these tips to discover and capture your leadership experience when answering your UC PIQ prompts:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #1

1. ask friends, family, and mentors for examples..

Sometimes, it can be hard to see our own accomplishments. Consider surveying your friends, family, and mentors, like teachers or coaches, for examples. Ask them how they have seen you positively influence others. From there, note if any examples feel particularly meaningful to you.

2. Be specific.

As with all UC essays, you’ll want to be specific to make a captivating argument. Spend time brainstorming specific details about your experience so that you can write about it in a compelling manner. For example, if you stood up for a friend who was being bullied, consider including details about the incident. How did you feel in the moment? What stands out to you now? 

3. Highlight your impact.

In this UC PIQ, admissions is looking for an example of how you made an impact on others. So, don’t forget to include what the effect of your involvement was. Perhaps in the bullying example, your friend told you they felt supported and safer at school, and the bullying stopped. What you learned from your experiences is as important as what happened to you.

If you choose the leadership prompt as one of your UC PIQ prompts, be sure to use these tips. Thoroughly reflecting on an experience is key to writing successful UC PIQs. Strong UC PIQ examples demonstrate strong critical thinking, another valuable trait to demonstrate in your UC Personal Insight Questions.

UC PIQ #1 Reflection Questions

As you review your draft response to the leadership UC PIQ, consider whether your response answers the following questions:

• Does your response clearly demonstrate a positive impact you had on others?
• Did you provide details to illustrate your story?
• Does your essay have an insightful reflection on what you learned about leadership?

Responding effectively to PIQ #1 requires answering yes to all these questions. Now, let’s continue looking at the UC prompts with UC PIQ #2.

UC Essay #2: Creativity 

The second of the eight available UC PIQ prompts focuses on creativity. Like the leadership question, you should interpret creativity broadly. Here is the second of the UC prompts:

UC Personal Insight Question #2

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. describe how you express your creative side..

You might read this question and think: “I’m not creative!” However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t choose it for one of your UC Personal Insight Questions. As the UC prompts state, every person is creative. We simply express our creativity differently. Creativity can include finding new routes to school in the morning to evade traffic. It might also look like discovering new ingredients and recipes for your school lunches. However you define or express your creativity is valid and could make a great topic for your UC PIQs.

When selecting a topic for your UC essay prompts, think about moments when you were particularly mentally energized. Reflect on what you were doing and how you approached that situation. Then consider whether you can tell an engaging story about that situation that demonstrates your creativity. 

Here are some tips for writing strong responses to UC essay prompts on creativity:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #2

1. think outside the box..

Creativity at its core is about tapping into your individual passions and interests. Allow yourself to think broadly about your own creativity and release any assumptions about what it means to be traditionally creative. Your UC essay prompts are a space for you to be yourself.

2. Pick a passion.

This prompt is designed to let you highlight personal passions. Maybe that passion is drawing or singing, or maybe it is solving math problems. Whatever you choose to describe, make sure it is a topic that matters deeply to you. 

3. Paint a picture.

Even if your chosen topic has nothing to do with art, use details that awaken the reader’s senses. Help us feel the joy behind your creative endeavor by giving us specific sensory details that excite you. Make your UC PIQs enjoyable and exciting to read.

Of all the UC essay prompts, this one is about creativity – so be creative and have fun writing! That will translate into an interesting response. If you’re feeling stuck, it might be helpful to review other UC PIQ examples. That way, you can get a sense of how different students respond to their UC essay prompts.

UC PIQ #2 Reflection Questions

As you finish drafting your UC Personal Insight Questions, use these questions to reflect upon your response:

• Does your topic reflect a unique way of thinking or creating?
• Does your response reflect your passion for a creative endeavor?
• Do you include sensory details that make your creativity come to life?

Whether you are working on a UC Irvine essay or a UC San Diego essay, ask yourself these questions. That way, you can feel confident you’ve done a comprehensive job responding to your UC prompts.

UC Essay Prompt #3: Talent

When choosing among the UC essay prompts, you might be drawn to one that allows you to talk about one of your strengths. This is your opportunity to brag about yourself, while also having self-awareness and reflecting upon your skills or talents. The third prompt on our list of the UC prompts is as follows:

UC Personal Insight Question #3

What would you say is your greatest talent or skill how have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time.

The key to answering this question well is to respond to all parts of the question. Start by reflecting on talents and skills that you have. A talent is anything you feel you can naturally do well, while a skill is something you’ve acquired over time. Both require work to hone. Sharing how you put work into your passions is important for any student including this talent prompt in their UC PIQs.

Again, keep an open mind as you reflect. We often associate talents and skills with huge accomplishments, like being a famous singer or an Olympic swimmer. In fact, talents can be seemingly small abilities, like memorizing difficult rap lyrics or putting together a stylish outfit. Skills can include everything from planning fun birthday parties to listening well to others. No talent or skill is too small to mention, so long as you provide engaging descriptions and meaningful reflections. (You might hear that caveat a lot when reviewing the UC prompts.)

Here are some tips for acing the third of the UC essay prompts:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #3

1. brag a little..

As we mentioned, these UC prompts are designed to learn more about you. If you don’t tell UC admissions officers about your accomplishments, they won’t know about them. The strongest UC essay examples share achievements that may not be evident elsewhere on an application.

2. Be honest and vulnerable.

Just because you have a skill doesn’t mean you are perfect. Feel free to share what you find challenging about this activity or how you have sought to improve. Several UC PIQ examples highlight where students have struggled or failed in learning a new skill. Whether writing a UC Davis or UC San Diego essay, this vulnerability will stand out.

3. Focus on growth.

A strong response to UC prompts always includes self-reflection. Find the balance between bragging and highlighting weaknesses by finding the lessons you learned from this experience. Maybe you have always had a knack for predicting the weather, but one day predicted wrong and ended up soaked by a downpour. Perhaps your lesson is to be humble and always find secondary evidence to back up your predictions. 

As with all UC essay prompts, try to pick a topic you enjoy writing about. That genuine interest will come across, whether you’re writing a UCLA essay or UC Berkeley essay.

UC PIQ #3 Reflection Questions

After capturing your talent for one of your four UC PIQs, consider these reflection questions:

• Did you highlight a talent or skill that is important to you?
• Did you find a balance between bragging and reflecting upon your growth?
• Did you describe your talent or skill with descriptions that make it come to life?

Check out other UC essay examples in this guide for ideas of how other students approached their UC prompts. But for now, let’s continue our exploration of the UC prompts.

UC PIQ #4: Educational opportunities and barriers

Uc personal insight question #4, describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced..

The fourth of the UC essay prompts is a unique question that asks you to share an educational opportunity or barrier. Other UC prompts thus far have asked you to focus on experiences you chose. However, this question opens the door to discuss an experience that happened to you. But remember, your PIQs should always focus on you. Just as you would for other UC essay prompts, you must make a point to highlight your own growth or learnings.

Indeed, the UC school system is very aware of educational inequities across the state and country. This question acknowledges that disparity, providing space for UC admissions officers to consider a student’s educational experience in their evaluation. Students working on their UC Berkeley essay or UCLA essay might be worried about their grades not being strong enough. Those students may wish to choose this prompt if their grades or course choices don’t reflect their best abilities. 

On the flip side, applicants can also use this PIQ to share further details about an opportunity they took advantage of. For example, maybe your UCLA application includes your summer research experiences but doesn’t offer space to elaborate on them. In that case, you may want to choose PIQ #4 as one of your four UC essay prompts.

When writing about education barriers or opportunities, you should be cautious about how you explain your experience. Here is some guidance about responding to this question as one of your UC PIQs effectively:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #4

1. choose a barrier or an opportunity that had significant impact on your academic career..

Your UC PIQs must highlight experiences which shaped you profoundly. Some UC PIQ examples highlight how students were accepted into programs that exposed them to a new career path. Other UC essay examples discuss how their school’s lack of classes for students with special needs prevented them from excelling. Use your UC essay prompts to your advantage by being strategic about which experiences to highlight. 

2. Remain an active participant in your story.

The goal of these UC prompts is to learn more about how you approach life. After describing the barrier or opportunity, share how it shaped you. What did you learn from the experience? What did you put into the experience to make sure you could succeed? A UC Davis essay passively complaining about a high school’s lack of advanced courses is unlikely to impress UC Admissions.

3. Focus on your growth and goals.

In many of the UC essay prompts, you have an opportunity to share your intentions for the future. Whether you grew up extremely privileged or lacking resources, UC Admissions wants to understand the quality of your character. Share how you have grown and what you hope to accomplish next.

No matter which UC prompts you select, give your full effort towards making sure they reflect your best qualities. 

UC PIQ #4 Reflection Questions

In contrast to other UC prompts, this response can be answered in two distinct ways. By focusing on an educational barrier or an educational opportunity. Regardless of which route you take, you’ll want to review your response to ensure it answers these reflection questions:

• Does your response highlight an opportunity or barrier that is academic in nature?
• Do you demonstrate how you played an active role in overcoming the barrier or making the most of the opportunity you chose?
• Does your response demonstrate how you grew or learned from your experience?  

As much as your UC essay prompts are about your experiences, they are ultimately about you. Make sure you demonstrate how you became who you are in your responses to the UC essay prompts.

Alright, we’re halfway through reviewing the UC essay prompts! If these first four UC prompts didn’t speak to you, there are four more you can choose from. Keep reading to learn about PIQ #5.

UC Essay Prompt #5: Significant Challenge

Next is the significant challenge prompt. Of the UC prompts, this UC PIQ is considered the challenge essay. This is a common topic – you’ve probably encountered similar prompts for supplemental essays on other applications. The prompt for #5 of the UC PIQS is as follows:

UC Personal Insight Question #5

Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. how has this challenge affected your academic achievement.

Like all the UC essay prompts, this requires some thought before diving in — what do successful UC essays cover here? Firstly, remember all of the UC PIQ prompts are very particular with their wording. Note “overcome” and “affected” in this UC PIQ. These are the “whats” of your essay.

The UC essay prompts ask for essays that reveal more about who you are as a person and a learner. Therefore, if you use this prompt for one of your UC PIQs, your challenge should be linked to your academics. That is to say, while not all successful UC essay examples for this prompt concern academic challenges, many do.

So, what topics are ideal for these UC essay prompts? Although you may have faced many academic challenges, the best UC Personal Insight Questions go above and beyond. Some UC PIQs discuss challenges that have little to do with academics but nevertheless have an effect. When brainstorming here, think about times that you struggled academically, and pinpoint the source. Common challenges are not off-limits, provided you tackle them with specificity and nuance in your UC PIQs.

Your responses to UC essay prompts should give your readers a better sense of who you are. Think of how many UC PIQs the UC Berkeley essay readers or UC Irvine essay review team see every year. The strongest UC PIQs will discuss a challenge and the writer’s reaction in a compelling way. Here are some tips to consider when answering #5 of the UC essay prompts:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #5

1. consider your personal narrative..

Once you’ve decided on your topic, consider the most unique or interesting aspect of your journey with your challenge. Answering UC essay prompts starts with determining how your topic relates to your personal narrative . Let your writing capture something about your personality while highlighting certain aspects of your background.

2. Focus on the journey.

It may be tempting to get caught up in the what and the why of the challenge. While these are important details to include in your essay, be sure to detail what you did to overcome this challenge. Effective responses to UC essay prompts about challenges illustrate the writer’s character through their response to adversity. 

3. Connect back to academics.

Even if your challenge was not directly related to academics, it should connect back to some aspect of your education. Emphasize ways in which you continued to apply yourself academically, despite or in spite of this challenge. Successful UC essay examples demonstrate academic tenacity—not necessarily unbroken success—throughout hardship. 

Remember, this prompt is about overcoming a challenge. Frame the challenge as something you surmounted when drafting your UC PIQs. 

UC PIQ #5 Reflection Questions

Here are some reflection questions to consider if you choose to write about #5 of the UC PIQ prompts:

• Does your essay clearly define the challenge you overcame?
• Does your approach to the challenge highlight your unique and compelling traits?
• Do you describe the effect of the challenge on your academic achievement?

Keep these questions in mind to keep your response focused and continually engaged with the prompt.

UC PIQ #6: Academic Interests

Next on our list of UC essay prompts is the academic interests essay. Among the UC prompts, this is one of the most straightforward:

UC Personal Insight Question #6

Think about an academic subject that inspires you. describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom..

Some of the UC essay prompts give a lot of room for interpretation and exploration. However, academic interest UC PIQs are rather simple. These UC essays should discuss the writer’s academic passion and their track record engaging with it. As with other UC essay prompts, look closely at the wording. Your focus may be “inside and/or outside of the classroom.” Let’s say you’ve researched astronomy on your own but your school doesn’t offer an astronomy class. If it inspires you, that’s still a great topic for this essay prompt!

Your topic can be any academic subject that you’ve pursued in a tangible way. Of course, if you’ve undertaken research or other work in that field, that experience is an excellent start. However, you could also write about personal research projects, or maybe school organizations and events you’ve been a part of. Like the other UC essay prompts, this PIQ asks not just what you like, but how you pursue your interests.

UC prompts invite you to showcase what makes you unique, from your academic passions to your creative drive. Consider these tips when writing your own responses to the UC essay prompts:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #6

1. ground your essay in an anecdote..

Think about when you first engaged in this topic – what inspired you? How did you get involved? If it is directly aligned with your intended college major, when did you decide you wanted to continue your studies? Or make a career out of it? Grounding your essay in a specific moment can demonstrate your passion while bringing life to the person behind that passion.

2. Showcase your drive.

A strong UC PIQ essay for this prompt will be unambiguous in describing your interest and how you pursue it. But great UC essays will describe these in a way that leaves little doubt about your force of will. Learning, particularly at a college level, does not end in a classroom. A curious and driven student will take any chance to learn. Will a UC San Diego essay reader see you as a passionate, driven, inspired person? Strong responses to the UC prompts should leave the reader with no doubt that you will excel at a UC.

3. Tell a story.

Make sure there is movement in your essay. That means telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end, propelled forward through change and action. Is there a way your UC PIQ can demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for your topic through your actions? The best responses for UC essay prompts exhibit out-of-the-box thinking and a willingness to pursue—or make—opportunities.

When writing responses to the UC essay questions, reading UC essay examples may inspire you. If you’re unclear on ideal approaches for UC prompts, UC PIQ examples can steer you in the right direction. Since the UC PIQ prompts often overlap through UC application cycles, you may find guidance in past UC PIQs.

UC PIQ #6 Reflection Questions

Use these reflection questions to keep you on track during the writing process:

• Do you clearly identify your academic passion and ways you’ve pursued it?
• Do you highlight positive traits about yourself (persistence, creativity, curiosity, etc.) through your actions?
• Does your essay portray you as a flexible learner who goes beyond textbooks in pursuit of understanding?

This academic PIQ is one of the best opportunities you have to characterize yourself as a student and a learner.

UC Essay Prompt #7: Community

The next of the UC prompts asks a question common to college essays. Other UC essay prompts ask about you—your background and qualities, your leadership potential. In contrast to those UC Personal Insight Questions, this one asks about your contributions to a community. Here is the prompt:

UC Personal Insight Question #7

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place.

Like with the other UC Personal Insight Questions, the wording here matters. UC PIQ examples for community UC prompts, past and present, discuss a variety of communities, including school. Your community may be a religious or cultural community, or one centered on a particular identity. Your UC Davis essay or UC San Diego essay may even center around a hobby community, like a knitting circle.

In a similar vein, “a better place” is a key point here. Poorly thought-out UC PIQs may simply rehash a scenario where the writer exhibited leadership or initiated something. However, remember that responses to the UC prompts should address the prompt directly. Therefore, effective UC Personal Insight Questions will emphasize the positive impact the writers had on their community. Consider how your leadership or initiative improved the community and the experiences of its members and beyond.

Strong UC PIQ examples build on the personal narrative constructed elsewhere in the UC application. UC Personal Insight Questions should show the writer demonstrating core traits that they want UC admissions to know. Here are some tips to help you be clear about your contribution(s) to the community and your impact:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #7

1. identify your community..

When responding to UC essay prompts about community, the obvious first step is to identify the community and its significance. Touch on how you got involved and what this community means to you.

2. Measure your impact.

Answering these UC essay prompts can feel somewhat similar to completing your Common App extracurriculars section. That is to say, strong UC essays often use concrete figures and details when discussing impact. Would the UC Irvine essay review team have a clear picture of your impact from your essay? Can a UC Berkeley essay reader understand exactly what you’ve accomplished from your UC essays?

3. Be honest and realistic.

Be honest about your efforts and the difference you’ve made, however large or small. The connection between action and effect should be logical. A shared calendar for your gardening club may not save lives, but organizing mutual aid through a community organization might. Don’t oversell the impact your actions have had. Of course, your UC application (and college applications in general) should portray you as an ideal candidate—but not through exaggeration. 

Finally, take pride in your contribution. Certainly, leadership tends to make for strong UC PIQs. However, you can improve your community even without being in an official leadership role. Think deeply about your community participation and how you can best highlight your impact in your UC Personal Insight Questions.

UC PIQ #7 Reflection Questions

Use these questions during the editing process to ensure you submit as strong an essay as possible to UC Admissions:

• Do you clearly identify your community and your contribution—with statistics where applicable?
• Does your UC PIQ showcase positive personal traits in the way you improved your community?
• Do you portray yourself as a helpful member of your community?

Next, we’ll review the final UC PIQ prompt.

UC PIQ #8: Beyond Your Application

The last of the UC essay prompts gives applicants carte blanche to cover anything not mentioned in other UC PIQs. Let’s look at the final item on the list of UC prompts:

UC Personal Insight Question #8

Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the university of california.

This is distinct from other UC essay prompts in that it is very open-ended. While it may seem easy to write this essay, it can be much more challenging than the other UC PIQs. Whatever topic you choose, your essay should ultimately strengthen your case for admission. Particularly if this is a UC Berkeley essay or UCLA essay, this UC PIQ should be highly individualized and impressive.

Think carefully about your topic and whether it could be used for other UC essay prompts. A chronic health condition may be better suited for the challenge essay. Efforts in activism might be a better answer to the leadership, creativity, or community UC Personal Insight Questions. Of the UC prompts, this may lend itself best to preparation through reading UC PIQ examples. Successful UC essay examples can help you figure out what kinds of experiences you may have that fit this prompt.

So you’ve chosen your topic and decided it doesn’t fit any other UC essay prompts as well as this one. How can you approach this essay? Here are some tips to help you get started:

Tips for approaching UC PIQ #8

1. focus on character..

Like with other UC prompts, there’s a question that you need to answer: why are you an outstanding candidate? Strong candidates are curious, self-driven students whose values align with those of the institution to which they are applying. Consider the qualities that make you prepared to take on challenging coursework and enrich the campus community. 

2. Fill in the gaps.

Consider how your personality and character show in your other three UC essay prompts answers. Is there another trait that a UC Davis essay reviewer would miss if they read your UC Personal Insight Questions? Maybe you mentioned a non-academic interest that you could expand on to add depth to your UC Irvine or UCLA application. Either way, this UC PIQ should add additional, essential context that wouldn’t suit the other UC prompts.

3. Save it for last.

It may be best to finish the other UC Personal Insight Questions before this one. In doing so, you can review your responses to other UC prompts to see what’s missing from your application. And, you can be sure your response connects back and complements your other essays.

If, while writing, you find that your topic fits the other UC essay prompts better, roll with it! Unlike UC prompts 1 through 7, not everyone will have something to say for this prompt. Since you can choose four of the eight UC Personal Insight Questions, you’ll have ample opportunity to reflect elsewhere.

UC PIQ #8 Reflection Questions

Keep these questions in mind throughout the writing process, from choosing a topic to revising your drafts:

• Is your essay topic best suited to this topic out of the eight UC essay prompts?
• Does your essay introduce new information or context that bolsters the strength of your application?
• Does your essay build on the narrative you’ve built in your other UC Personal Insight Questions?

Now, we’ve covered all eight of the UC essay prompts. Next, let’s discuss how to choose the right UC prompts for you.

Choosing the Right UC PIQs for You

Of the eight UC essay prompts, you can only write four UC essays. So which ones should you pick? The first step to choosing your UC prompts is to read them thoroughly and see which ones stand out. Trust your gut and start brainstorming —you may even end up making ideas for all eight UC essay prompts. There are tons of writing exercises you can use when searching for essay topics, and you may need to try several.

Once you’ve thought of essay topics, figure out which ones are most viable. Which ideas could spark great UC PIQ examples, written with genuine enthusiasm and clarity? If you can’t avoid a somewhat cliche topic, can you write about it in a compelling way? What insights can you find in your experiences that nobody else would—and how do you show them? Choose the UC prompts that excite you and enable you to showcase the traits that make you a strong candidate. 

Every strong UC San Diego essay or UC Davis essay will be personally inspiring and aspirational. It may take a few brainstorming sessions for you to figure out which UC essay prompts inspire your best writing. Be flexible when planning your essays: ideas for one of the UC PIQ prompts may end up fitting other UC prompts. In those cases, be willing to change your chosen UC essay prompts to get the best fit for your ideas.

How to Make Your UC Essays Stand Out

Once you’ve chosen your UC essay prompts and drafted your UC essays, there’s still work to be done. Between writing a first draft and submitting an Irvine or UCLA application, you must revise your essays. Above, we gave you reflection questions for each of the UC prompts. Now, here are a few questions you should ask yourself about your responses to UC essay prompts as a whole.

Do your UC PIQs paint a vivid picture of who you are and what you’ll bring to the campus community?

At heart, the UC essay prompts ask you to explain who you are and how you navigate the world. Remember, every aspect of your application is evaluated holistically, whether it’s a UCLA application or a UC Davis application. And, since UC Apply doesn’t use standardized test scores for admission decisions, your essays must help make your case. Your UC Personal Insight Questions should explore key parts of your experience in an interesting, authentic fashion. After reviewing your PIQs, a reader should have no doubt that you’re a great fit for your UCs of choice.

Have you gotten feedback from a trusted peer or mentor about how well your essays describe you?

Getting a fresh pair of eyes on a UC PIQ is an often-underrated style of editing. After you’ve reviewed them on your own, ask someone you trust to review your responses to the UC essay prompts. They may have suggestions on ways to help your voice shine through. Or even notes on if you’ve misrepresented yourself in your writing. Before putting anything in UC Apply, try to have another person read your UC PIQs.

Are there any technical errors in your UC PIQs?

This is pretty obvious, but the last thing you want in your essays is a spelling or grammar mistake. This is another reason a second opinion can be helpful! Ensuring your essays are error-free is an easy way to help polish your UC Personal Insight Questions.

UC Application Deadlines

After all that effort you’ve put into your UC Personal Insight Questions, don’t let a missed deadline ruin your chances. Since all UC schools from UCLA to UC Davis use the UC Apply portal , they have the same deadline: November 30 . Note that UC Apply does not have early decision or early action application options .

Contrary to the Common Application, which can be submitted as early as September, UC Apply opens its filing period in October. Of course, just because you can’t submit your UC application before October 1 doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start early. Your UCSD or UCLA essay writing should start well before the deadline. That way, you can ensure you have time to plan, draft, revise, and make your application stand out . Especially in light of the competitiveness of top schools like Berkeley and UCLA , you don’t want to rush the process.

Another benefit of starting early is that you get plenty of time to research the UC Personal Insight Questions. You’ll have time to read the UC prompts, find UC PIQ examples, and learn what UC admissions officers look for. If you browse UC sites, you may even find additional tips for writing your UC Personal Insight Questions.

More Essay UC Resources from CollegeAdvisor

CollegeAdvisor has a lot of experience helping students through the UC admissions process. To help more students, we’ve put our wisdom into free resources. Our online resources are open to all, providing helpful advice from current and former students, as well as admissions officers.

We have an array of broad-scope “how to get into” guides for the UCs and beyond. Our UCLA guide covers everything from the ideal GPA to UCLA essay strategies. Other UC schools we’ve covered include UC Irvine , UC Berkeley , and UC Santa Barbara . If you’re interested in other UCs, search our website for other schools on your list!

Maybe you’re still focused on the UC essay prompts. In that case, we have other UC essay guides that may be helpful to your writing process. Since the UC prompts haven’t changed significantly in the past few years, a winning UC Irvine essay approach from 2020 still holds up. We have 2021-2022 UC essay examples to inspire you as you write your own. Another excellent resource is our article on common college essay questions , which covers challenge essays and unique essays.

As some of the best schools in California, the UC schools can be challenging to get into without excellent essays. But, with in-depth, free resources from CollegeAdvisor.com, you’ll be better equipped to craft knockout UC PIQs.

UC Essay Prompts 2023-2024 – Final Thoughts

With schools from UC Berkeley to UC Santa Barbara , the UC system serves thousands of students from across the world. Applying to the best UC schools can seem daunting, especially given the eight different UC essay prompts. Even if you have impressive extracurriculars, a high GPA, and California residency, UC essays can tip your admissions odds.

In this article, we took a deep dive into the UC essay prompts, also called the UC Personal Insight Questions. We discussed each of the UC PIQ prompts and what sorts of topics may be best suited for each. Then, we went into more detail about approaching each essay, from exploring ideas to putting them together. Additionally, we provided some advice on reflecting on your experiences and choosing your four UC essay prompts. Finally, we left you with a hearty helping of UC essay examples and guides.

Your UC Essay matter

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University of San Diego | USD’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Living learning community short response.

The University of San Diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. First-year students are immersed in one of our five Living Learning Communities (LLC), with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: Advocate, Collaborate, Cultivate, Illuminate and Innovate. Select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why. (Please note that your response to this question will not impact any future LLC placement.)

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Now choose one of the three prompts below to write about. Essays should be approximately 200 words in length.

What contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable community? Here at USD, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. Our newly launched Horizon Project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse and inclusive campus community. We value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education.

Use this space to write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. Why does it matter to you? What experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue. As a proud Changemaker Campus, as designated by Ashoka U, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective.

Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. As a contemporary Catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. We devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant USD community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with God while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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2023-2024 UC San Diego

• Thread starter wysdoc
• Start date Mar 23, 2023

Plain-spoken Texan

• Mar 23, 2023

demetriusclair

Full member.

• Jul 13, 2023

OOS application confirmation received  

• Jul 15, 2023

demetriusclair said: OOS application confirmation received Click to expand...

6'0 OGFLYERCI

Biochemily said: Same prompts? Click to expand...

aristotlesalterego

Does UCSD require PREview?  

OreoLover365

demetriusclair said: I only got a confirmation that they received my application from AMCAS. Received the email on July 13th and have not heard back about a secondary yet. Click to expand...

harmreductionist81

OreoLover365 said: I didn’t even get a confirmation from UCSD, and I was verified much earlier than 6/30. Did anyone else get this email? Click to expand...

moonshapedpooll

harmreductionist81 said: I'm in the same boat, was verified pretty early on and still haven't gotten a confirmation Click to expand...

Guys shhhhh we don't want the secondary to come out. I'm not done writing it yet😬😬😬  

Cotton Candy Lover

• Jul 16, 2023

6'0 OGFLYERCI said: Guys shhhhh we don't want the secondary to come out. I'm not done writing it yet😬😬😬 Click to expand...

PatentForamenOvale

demetriusclair said: I was verified on 6/3 so that may be why. Submitted at 9:30am on the first day. I don't think you guys need to worry. As soon as I get those secondary questions, I'm going to post them here Click to expand...

PatentForamenOvale said: I was verified on 6/2 and haven’t gotten an acknowledgment email yet, so not sure what order they’re going in 😅 But I’ll take the extra time because the long autobiographic question is going to take me a bit! Click to expand...

aristotlesalterego said: Does UCSD require PREview? Click to expand...

aristotlesalterego said: Boosting to see if anyone knows the answer! couldn't find anything on their website about it but saw it was required in last years thread. Click to expand...

• University of California, Davis, School of Medicine
• University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine

Dr.WannabeAccepted

• Jul 17, 2023

UCSD states, "For all applicants, we will make decisions regarding interviews without consideration of the MCAT score (i.e. the MCAT score will be hidden from the applications that our screeners will review)," does anyone know if they do this for secondaries as well?  

Kzfor3 said: UCSD states, "For all applicants, we will make decisions regarding interviews without consideration of the MCAT score (i.e. the MCAT score will be hidden from the applications that our screeners will review)," does anyone know if they do this for secondaries as well? Click to expand...

Applicants will not be invited to submit a secondary application unless they have an MCAT score available Click to expand...

neuromed61849

• Jul 18, 2023

IS secondary received 7/18  

neuromed61849 said: IS secondary received 7/18 Click to expand...

Labe said: Prompts? Click to expand...

6'0 OGFLYERCI said: He has to be capping there's no chance. IM NOT DONE WRITING YET Click to expand...

@neuromed61849 Please confirm the prompts and tag the moderator. TY!  

kath00 said: @neuromed61849 Please confirm the prompts and tag the moderator. TY! Click to expand...

coyotelaughs

I was never emailed that they received my application, and I was verified over a month ago. Anyone know if I should be concerned?  

coyotelaughs said: I was never emailed that they received my application, and I was verified over a month ago. Anyone know if I should be concerned? Click to expand...

soundofsilence

• Jul 19, 2023

Do yall think it is worth applying to UCSD with an aamc preview score of 5?  

soundofsilence said: Do yall think it is worth applying to UCSD with an aamc preview score of 5? Click to expand...

vitoto32 said: I thought UCSD does not look at PREview scores, correct? I got a 4, and just wanted to make sure. Click to expand...

1. This should be a true autobiographical statement. Topics to be included are family, childhood, primary and secondary school years, undergraduate years, and, if applicable, what you’ve done since completing your bachelor’s degree. You should also discuss the motivational factors which led you to a career in medicine including any disadvantages or obstacles which might put your accomplishments into context. A repeat of your AMCAS statement will not be acceptable. Please note: if you are applying to the MD/PhD program, please include why you are specifically interested in seeking MD/PhD training at UCSD. (6000c) 2. (OPTIONAL) Please describe how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community? (4800c) 3. On your AMCAS Application, you were asked to identify your three “most meaningful” experiences. These activities have been auto-filled in your secondary application. In addition to the information you provided on the AMCAS application, we would like to know if there are any additional activities you would consider among your most meaningful. This may include activities that you’ve already completed but couldn’t include as you were limited to three selections on the AMCAS application, or it may include a new activity that began after your initial AMCAS application was submitted. Use the “Add” button below to enter a new activity. We would also like to know if a letter of recommendation has been submitted on your behalf by somebody you worked with through this experience. If you do not have a letter from this experience, simply type N/A. This information allows Admissions Committee members reviewing your application to more readily match your letters to your experiences and thus facilitates the review of your application. DO NOT LIST ANY ACTIVITY MORE THAN ONCE. (100 character description for each activity you add LMAO) 4. Some medical school applicants are already focused on pursuing a particular career pathway in medicine. While many students will change from this pathway during medical school, knowing of your potential interests does help us to assign interviewers. Your choice below does not influence how the Admissions Committee selects students to interview. Please select from one of career pathways listed below. In addition to this selection, please provide a brief description of your future career goals: (400 char) Academic Medicine (Working as a faculty member at a School of Medicine either as a clinician, a clinician-educator, or a clinician investigator. This could be in any field of medicine) Primary Care and/or work in underserved communities (Working as a general internist, a pediatrician, or a family medicine physician and/or spending the majority of your time working in a community currently underserved by the medical profession) Public Health, administrative leadership in medicine (Pursuing an MPH and/or working for a public health department or organization; working in health care policy; working as a hospital administrator) Specialist in private practice (Working in a private practice or managed care setting as a subspecialist. Examples include cardiologist, infectious disease specialist, obstetrician, orthopedic surgeon, general surgeon, anaesthesiologist, radiologist) Other/undecided Program Based: 1. The goals of PRIME - HEq are: To increase the number of clinicians, research scientists, and advocates addressing minority health and health disparities; to create a diverse community of scholars that develop, transmit, and apply new knowledge in minority health and health disparities; and to promote a multidisciplinary community/university partnership to eliminate health disparities. The program utilizes existing opportunities to allow enrollees to obtain a master's degree emphasizing minority health and health disparities, tailored to student's interest (MPH, MBA, MAS, MS) Applicants indicating an interest in PRIME are required to write an additional essay detailing their qualifications and reasons for interest in the program. Please describe your interest in the PRIME-HEq program. Topics to include are longitudinal experiences that you’ve had with underserved communities, including the type of community that you’ve worked with and your level of involvement. Additionally, you should discuss the length of time that you’ve spent working in these communities. (4800c) 2. Applicants to the UCSD School of Medicine may apply for admission to the GHAC. This track is available to five medical students per class per year, and will provide mentored research and clinical experiences in Global Health. The GHAC has four goals: 1) to prepare young physicians to engage with the global community to address health disparities; 2) to provide experiences and training in academic Global Health research; 3) to provide field experiences in Global Health delivery; and 4) to facilitate education about structural and social factors that create and propagate health disparities. Students in this concentration will undertake an additional curriculum that exposes them to Global Health topics throughout all four years of medical school. This track is appropriate for applicants hoping to pursue an academic medical career in Global Health. Students accepted into the GHAC will be provided with financial support for two international rotations (up to $5000 for both). Applicants interested in applying for the GHAC are required to write an additional essay detailing their qualifications and reasons for interest in this program. Please describe your interest in Global Health. The term Global Health can have many meanings; for our purposes, we find the definition provided by Koplan et. al. in their 2009 Lancet publication useful: “the area of study, research and practice that places a priority on improving health and achieving equity in health for all people worldwide”. In your essay, be sure to describe any personal or professional experiences that have shaped your interests, and how Global Health issues have influenced your decision to pursue a career in medicine. (4800c) 3. Applicants to the UCSD School of Medicine may apply for admission to the Program in Medicine - Transforming Indigenous Doctor Education (PRIME-TIDE), which is available to six medical students per class per year. The educational objectives of the PRIME-TIDE are to: 1) teach medical students the appropriate management and treatment of diseases common in AI/AN communities with a focus on culturally sensitive care via a mentored clinical experience in local, regional or national tribally-operated Indian Health Service (IHS) ambulatory clinics; 2) understand the opportunities for community-based research with AI/AN communities through the California Native American Research Center for Health (CA-NARCH); 3) engage in preventive medicine and public health in a tribal healthcare setting; and 4) understand the social, environmental, economic and political issues related to providing healthcare to tribal communities, as well as the limitations/adaptations to the delivery of IHS care. These objectives will be met by completing didactic coursework, as well as mentored research and clinical experiences. (4800c)  

griffinfly said: 1. This should be a true autobiographical statement. Topics to be included are family, childhood, primary and secondary school years, undergraduate years, and, if applicable, what you’ve done since completing your bachelor’s degree. You should also discuss the motivational factors which led you to a career in medicine including any disadvantages or obstacles which might put your accomplishments into context. A repeat of your AMCAS statement will not be acceptable. Please note: if you are applying to the MD/PhD program, please include why you are specifically interested in seeking MD/PhD training at UCSD. (6000c) 2. (OPTIONAL) Please describe how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community? (4800c) 3. On your AMCAS Application, you were asked to identify your three “most meaningful” experiences. These activities have been auto-filled in your secondary application. In addition to the information you provided on the AMCAS application, we would like to know if there are any additional activities you would consider among your most meaningful. This may include activities that you’ve already completed but couldn’t include as you were limited to three selections on the AMCAS application, or it may include a new activity that began after your initial AMCAS application was submitted. Use the “Add” button below to enter a new activity. We would also like to know if a letter of recommendation has been submitted on your behalf by somebody you worked with through this experience. If you do not have a letter from this experience, simply type N/A. This information allows Admissions Committee members reviewing your application to more readily match your letters to your experiences and thus facilitates the review of your application. DO NOT LIST ANY ACTIVITY MORE THAN ONCE. (100 character description for each activity you add LMAO) 4. Some medical school applicants are already focused on pursuing a particular career pathway in medicine. While many students will change from this pathway during medical school, knowing of your potential interests does help us to assign interviewers. Your choice below does not influence how the Admissions Committee selects students to interview. Please select from one of career pathways listed below. In addition to this selection, please provide a brief description of your future career goals: (400 char) Academic Medicine (Working as a faculty member at a School of Medicine either as a clinician, a clinician-educator, or a clinician investigator. This could be in any field of medicine) Primary Care and/or work in underserved communities (Working as a general internist, a pediatrician, or a family medicine physician and/or spending the majority of your time working in a community currently underserved by the medical profession) Public Health, administrative leadership in medicine (Pursuing an MPH and/or working for a public health department or organization; working in health care policy; working as a hospital administrator) Specialist in private practice (Working in a private practice or managed care setting as a subspecialist. Examples include cardiologist, infectious disease specialist, obstetrician, orthopedic surgeon, general surgeon, anaesthesiologist, radiologist) Other/undecided Program Based: 1. The goals of PRIME - HEq are: To increase the number of clinicians, research scientists, and advocates addressing minority health and health disparities; to create a diverse community of scholars that develop, transmit, and apply new knowledge in minority health and health disparities; and to promote a multidisciplinary community/university partnership to eliminate health disparities. The program utilizes existing opportunities to allow enrollees to obtain a master's degree emphasizing minority health and health disparities, tailored to student's interest (MPH, MBA, MAS, MS) Applicants indicating an interest in PRIME are required to write an additional essay detailing their qualifications and reasons for interest in the program. Please describe your interest in the PRIME-HEq program. Topics to include are longitudinal experiences that you’ve had with underserved communities, including the type of community that you’ve worked with and your level of involvement. Additionally, you should discuss the length of time that you’ve spent working in these communities. (4800c) 2. Applicants to the UCSD School of Medicine may apply for admission to the GHAC. This track is available to five medical students per class per year, and will provide mentored research and clinical experiences in Global Health. The GHAC has four goals: 1) to prepare young physicians to engage with the global community to address health disparities; 2) to provide experiences and training in academic Global Health research; 3) to provide field experiences in Global Health delivery; and 4) to facilitate education about structural and social factors that create and propagate health disparities. Students in this concentration will undertake an additional curriculum that exposes them to Global Health topics throughout all four years of medical school. This track is appropriate for applicants hoping to pursue an academic medical career in Global Health. Students accepted into the GHAC will be provided with financial support for two international rotations (up to $5000 for both). Applicants interested in applying for the GHAC are required to write an additional essay detailing their qualifications and reasons for interest in this program. Please describe your interest in Global Health. The term Global Health can have many meanings; for our purposes, we find the definition provided by Koplan et. al. in their 2009 Lancet publication useful: “the area of study, research and practice that places a priority on improving health and achieving equity in health for all people worldwide”. In your essay, be sure to describe any personal or professional experiences that have shaped your interests, and how Global Health issues have influenced your decision to pursue a career in medicine. (4800c) 3. Applicants to the UCSD School of Medicine may apply for admission to the Program in Medicine - Transforming Indigenous Doctor Education (PRIME-TIDE), which is available to six medical students per class per year. The educational objectives of the PRIME-TIDE are to: 1) teach medical students the appropriate management and treatment of diseases common in AI/AN communities with a focus on culturally sensitive care via a mentored clinical experience in local, regional or national tribally-operated Indian Health Service (IHS) ambulatory clinics; 2) understand the opportunities for community-based research with AI/AN communities through the California Native American Research Center for Health (CA-NARCH); 3) engage in preventive medicine and public health in a tribal healthcare setting; and 4) understand the social, environmental, economic and political issues related to providing healthcare to tribal communities, as well as the limitations/adaptations to the delivery of IHS care. These objectives will be met by completing didactic coursework, as well as mentored research and clinical experiences. (4800c) Click to expand...

griffinfly said: @wysdoc Click to expand...

BrokenLlamas

Cat bear rabbit thing/zumzizeroo.

IS secondary received (AMCAS verified 7/13!)  

pimavanserin

Pre pediatric neurocardiothoracic trauma surgeon.

BrokenLlamas said: IS secondary received (AMCAS verified 7/13!) Click to expand...

OOS secondary recieved  

Is there any information that indicates how refined the secondary screening process for UCSD is for IS and OOS applicants? I.e. any percentages of secondaries offered to each?  

OreoLover365 said: Thank you for sharing the secondary application questions! Just to double check, do they have a question for out-of-state applicants? For example, last year it was this: "If you are an out-of-state applicant, please let us know if there are specific reasons for your interest in the UCSD School of Medicine. (1000 characters)" Click to expand...

PurpleShark

sillyhorse said: OOS secondary recieved Click to expand...

Verification dates for those who've received a secondary?  

Labe said: Verification dates for those who've received a secondary? Click to expand...

nerdthebird

I didn’t get an IS secondary yet my blood pressure is increasing ugh  

+1 IS secondary received today, verified 6/29  

RuggedShark

OOS received, verified 6/2-ish  

premadbaddie

+1 OOS, verified 6/13  

• Jul 20, 2023

+1 OOS verified 6/8  

+1 OOS, verified 6/9  

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• A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (Central Coast)

CALIFORNIA: UC SAN DIEGO CASPA 2023-2024

By HJprePA May 15, 2023 in A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (Central Coast)

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Starting a thread for UCSD this cycle! Good luck everyone!

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February 16

curious how many people applied to ucsd. can people give this a thumbs up if you’re still interested in the program? and does anyone know how to see how many people are in this thread or follow the th

October 4, 2023

ofc, ill keep yall updated 

I appreciate that and thank you for all the advice. I personally feel like I know how hard I’ve worked over these last four years postgrad and feel like having at least one acceptance was a good enoug

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does anyone know the cost of this program? 

I attended a virtual session and they provided the cost of attendance. Based on what they had listed it looked to be about ~ $240,000 🫣 very expensive!

Does anyone know where I could find their curriculum? I am planning to attend the virtual session but I want to know beforehand. Thank you! 

I just finished applying. Had anyone gotten a secondary application yet?

On 5/24/2023 at 10:44 PM, PAnana said: I attended a virtual session and they provided the cost of attendance. Based on what they had listed it looked to be about ~ $240,000 🫣 very expensive!

jeez that’s definitely on the higher end haha

On 5/25/2023 at 12:38 PM, BassBob said: I just finished applying. Had anyone gotten a secondary application yet?

Hi there! Congrats on finally applying! The CASPA application has the link to the secondary. Click on UC San Diego, stay on the home tab, and under admissions requirements you will see the link. Good luck this cycle!

14 hours ago, dsal28 said: Hi there! Congrats on finally applying! The CASPA application has the link to the secondary. Click on UC San Diego, stay on the home tab, and under admissions requirements you will see the link. Good luck this cycle!

Is there an actual secondary app or just the $135 fee?

22 hours ago, Medico said: Is there an actual secondary app or just the $135 fee?

From the looks of it, there's just the fee. Which is the most expensive secondary app fee I have ever seen in my two years of applying lol. Once you pay, there's a link at the very bottom of the receipt that'll take you to the essay portion that needs to be filled out

11 hours ago, Medico said: Is there an actual secondary app or just the $135 fee?

So you are going to have to pay the fee prior to accessing the secondary. Once you pay for the secondary they send you an email with the receipt and link to the secondary.

5 hours ago, dsal28 said: So you are going to have to pay the fee prior to accessing the secondary. Once you pay for the secondary they send you an email with the receipt and link to the secondary.

The link is buried at the bottom of the receipt. There is no other reference of the secondary otherwise. A lot of applicants are going to miss it.

Do you guys think for the optional narrative regarding "circumstances that may have affected your ability to reach your academic goals" could be as simple as a bad grade on a test or not reaching a GPA goal? Or do they only want something more serious like how they mentioned course drops/withdrawals etc. 

Hi everyone! First time applicant.

Applied May 14

Will update when I hear something back!

good luck everyone!

On 6/3/2023 at 3:40 PM, pink1999 said: Do you guys think for the optional narrative regarding "circumstances that may have affected your ability to reach your academic goals" could be as simple as a bad grade on a test or not reaching a GPA goal? Or do they only want something more serious like how they mentioned course drops/withdrawals etc. 

I think they mean to explain repeated and withdrawn courses, many C grades or D/F grades

9 hours ago, PACINPROGRESS said: I just submitted my app, where can I do the supplemental? 

You should see it in the e-mail after you pay your secondary payment. At the bottom of the e-mail it says secondary application link.

PACINPROGRESS

7 hours ago, Bneal88 said: You should see it in the e-mail after you pay your secondary payment. At the bottom of the e-mail it says secondary application link.

What secondary payment? I only paid the fee on CASPA for when I applied to the school.

1 hour ago, PACINPROGRESS said: What secondary payment? I only paid the fee on CASPA for when I applied to the school.

There is a 135$ payment as well

1 hour ago, Bneal88 said: There is a 135$ payment as well

ooh yeah I saw that for the supplemental. What kind of questions are on the supplemental? Do they ask for your CV or resume?

18 hours ago, PACINPROGRESS said: ooh yeah I saw that for the supplemental. What kind of questions are on the supplemental? Do they ask for your CV or resume?

They don't ask for a CV. There are six questions. Three are optional. They ask how you will contribute to the program's mission, your connection to California, and what you hope to get from your training. The optional ones explain academic challenges, long gaps, and how you improved your app if you're a reapplicant. 

gr8fulprepa

Any thoughts or hesitation applying to developing PA programs? I've heard to stay away until they are more developed but am still wanting to give it a shot!

Has anyone who submitted their application (both CASPA and secondary) hear anything back from them yet? I submitted on June 2. 

10 hours ago, thtennis said: Has anyone who submitted their application (both CASPA and secondary) hear anything back from them yet? I submitted on June 2. 

20 hours ago, thtennis said: Has anyone who submitted their application (both CASPA and secondary) hear anything back from them yet? I submitted on June 2. 

I have not heard back yet either.

I have not heard anything either 

I received a confirmation email today, 06/22. I submitted both the CASPA and secondary apps on 06/16

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University of San Diego 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide 

Regular Decision: 

Regular Decision Deadline: Dec 1

University of San Diego 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 200 words each

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community

In this section, you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts in response to two essay prompts – one which all students will respond to and a second one where you will choose from among three essay options. Please note that there are a few hyperlinks embedded within the questions which link out to USD web pages which describe initiatives and programs unique to USD. You may find some of these links helpful as you consider your responses to the prompts.

The university of san diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. first-year students are immersed in one of our five living learning communities (llc) , with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: advocate, collaborate, cultivate, illuminate and innovate. select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why. (please note that your response to this question will not impact any future llc placement.)  .

This is a big blue sky of a prompt. Start by thinking about how you can relate to each of these words. Here’s a little word/concept association: “Advocate” reminds us of social justice and community service; “collaborate” elicits images of group projects or fundraising; “cultivate” can refer to how camp counselors invest in kids or how you started a club to fill a community void at your school; “illuminate” is a fun, vague idea that can evoke memories of learning, or exploration/travel; and “innovate” is an active word that can apply to any evolution of ideas or steps you’ve taken to effect change. With this array of options in front of you, we have no doubt that one of these concepts will resonate with you. Additionally, if one of these words means something to you in a way that we didn’t explicitly note, definitely explore that! Your approach to this essay alone is a great reflection of your priorities and creativity. Feel free to wander, but remember to take the reader on your journey with you, showing them the steps you took mentally to get from their theme to your story.

Now choose one of the three prompts below to write about. Essays should be approximately 200 words in length.

1) what contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable community here at usd, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. our newly launched horizon project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse and inclusive campus community. we value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education..

USD’s take on the community essay comes with a focus on diversity, but don’t let that limit you! First of all, let us remind you that your “local community” can be just about anything from your neighborhood to your family to your dojo. Pick a community that means something to you and the diversity narrative will fall into place. Maybe your progressive church welcomes people of many different faiths, and you developed a special language for discussing religion with your childhood friends. Or perhaps your school is incredibly homogenous and isolated, and you helped your Spanish class organize Skype chats with a student body in Guatemala. No matter your starting point, be sure to tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end. It may be tempting to pen a vivid description of your community and leave it at that, but the point of an essay like this is to tell a story about you, your contributions, your personal growth.

2) Use this space to write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. Why does it matter to you? What experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue. As a proud Changemaker Campus , as designated by Ashoka U, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective.

You’ll notice some striking similarities between USD option #2 and Common App prompt #4, which asks you to “Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve.” In other words, if you wrote your Common App personal statement on #4, you’ll want to skip USD’s #2 to avoid repeating yourself. (If not, here are some extra tips in our Common App Essay Prompt Guide !) 

This is your opportunity to not only show admissions how you face challenges, but demonstrate your creativity and vision, as well. If you choose this prompt, take a little time to brainstorm a few “challenges facing humanity” that bother you or affect your life. It can range from rising ocean temperatures to racial profiling. Although the scope and scale of your problem can vary, remember that USD emphasizes “social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, and a global perspective.”  

3) Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. As a contemporary Catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. We devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant USD community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with God while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become.

Given the faith-forward nature of this question and of the university website, we imagine that most of you folks reading this guide probably already have a few thoughts on this question. We’d be surprised if the religious affiliation didn’t factor into your decision to apply, but if you haven’t thought about it, now is your chance to reflect on your relationship with faith, if you so choose. Writing about spiritual and religious beliefs is just as personal (if not more!) as any other topic you might cover on your college application, so don’t be afraid to dive deep. If you grew up in a traditional religious household, you probably have a treasure trove of experiences and stories to share with admissions, but sometimes it’s hard to write about faith when it’s always been a given in your life. Whether your background is Christian, Hindu, or atheist, can you think about the role faith plays in your life? Is it daily, minute-by-minute, or reserved for high holidays? Or, if religion wasn’t a huge part of your upbringing, what led you to take an interest in a Catholic university? Whether you consider yourself a religious person or not, faith is a central component of the USD experience, and now is your chance to invite admissions into your own relationship with it.

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Education | UCSD admits 4,000 more students than it did a…

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Education | UCSD admits 4,000 more students than it did a year ago, continuing unprecedented growth

Enrollment push focuses on state residents, and the university says it is on pace to hit 50,000 in 10 to 15 years..

UCSD says it offered admission to 35,984 freshmen and 12,298 transfer students, hitting a total of 48,282. The previous year, the school admitted 32,061 freshmen and 12,264 transfers — or 44,325. More than 10,000 of those students accepted the offer.

Only UC Santa Cruz (54,381) and UC Davis (51,312) made more admission offers for the fall than UCSD. Unlike La Jolla, neither of those campuses have embraced huge expansion.

UCSD’s highest number of admissions offers occurred in 2021 when 52,671 students were told they could enroll in the fall.

In recent years, UCSD Chancellor Pradeep Khosla has said that he’d like to see the university grow far more slowly to give the school time to build up its infrastructure. The sentiment has been echoed by some faculty who say they often avoid campus because it is so crowded and there’s endless construction on high-rise dorms.  But enrollment has reached record highs every year for more than a decade, peaking last fall at 42,376. The university says it is on pace to hit 50,000 in 10 to 15 years.

A record 22,000 students will live in university-owned housing this fall. But roughly 2,800 students are on waiting lists for beds because of the growth and a shortage of affordable off-campus housing in La Jolla and University City.

The situation at UCSD reflects the explosive growth that’s been occurring in the University of California system, where enrollment soared by nearly 57,000 over the past decade, reaching 295,573 last fall.

The system announced last week that it had offered admission to a record 166,706 freshmen and transfers seeking a spot the UC’s nine undergraduate campuses.

Educators say the boom is due, in part, to the fact that more California high school students are meeting the rigorous entrance requirements of the UC, one of the world’s foremost research university systems. The San Diego, Los Angeles, Berkeley and San Francisco campuses are ranked among the 25 best global universities in the latest US News and World Report rankings.

UC President Michael Drake noted last week that the percentage of California residents seeking to enroll as freshmen this fall jumped by 4.3 percent over last year.

“We’re setting more California students on the path to a college degree and future success, and that translates to positive impact on communities throughout the state,” he said in a statement.

Drake did not mention that, to some degree, the UC system was pushed in this direction by the state Legislature in 2021 when lawmakers scolded the San Diego, Los Angeles and Berkeley campuses for frequently favoring international students over California residents because they paid higher tuition. Lawmakers told the three campuses to reduce the number of undergraduates from outside California by roughly 4 percent to free up a total of 4,500 slots for state residents.

Since then, the number of California residents at UCSD has increased by more than 1,300.

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UC San Diego Reports $1.73 Billion in Research Awards for FY24

• Debra Bass - [email protected]

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UC San Diego announced $1.73 billion in new research funding in its newly released fiscal year 2024 annual report. The university continues its long-standing among the top public research institutions in the world. The report highlights key trends and shifts in research funding expenditures across all campus entities.

"The most important takeaway from this year’s numbers is to recognize that UC San Diego’s commitment to innovation and research excellence remains world-class and steadfast,” said Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “The fluctuations in funding sources present both challenges and opportunities. We have an eye on decreases in federal funding but we are particularly encouraged by the increased support from state and private non-profit sectors, which highlights the continued confidence in our research capabilities.

TOP AWARDS 

Among the academic areas, Scripps Institution of Oceanography registered the highest increase in funding with a total of nearly $302 million, a 17 percent increase over the previous year. Health Sciences continues to have the most active research awards (3,321) and accounts for 54 percent of the university’s total active awards (5,568).

Researchers in those divisions account for most of the university’s top 100 awards.

Marine Biology Professor Brice Semmens received $6 million from NOAA for research to assess the extent and scope of contaminant impacts and mitigation strategies for deep ocean industrial waste dumping sites off the coast of Southern California . This award funds a team of researchers from Scripps Oceanography researchers working in collaboration with teams at UC Santa Barbara, San Diego State University and the Southern California Coastal Water Resources Project  to further characterize the extent and ecosystem impacts of the legacy of industrial dumping.   

Professor Michael Hogarth, a biomedical informatics faculty member in the School of Medicine, received $25.4 million for Informatics to Support the California Integrated Vital Records System from the California Department of Public Health.

The most important takeaway from this year’s numbers is to recognize that UC San Diego’s commitment to innovation and research excellence remains world-class and steadfast.

Total award dollars include dollars from new awards and previously funded multi-year awards that are distributed over a period of time.

This year the amount of new award dollars increased, although the number of new awards fell slightly from 631 to 610, representing a trend of faculty attracting grants with higher monetary amounts. 

Social Sciences was awarded 13 percent of new awards in FY24, the same amount as Physical Sciences and Biological Sciences. All three earned about 80 new awards each but the total award amounts for each division varied widely — $24 million in Social Sciences,  $61 million in Physical Sciences and $81 million in Biological Sciences. All three recorded increases over the previous year. 

The only school to rank higher in the number of new awards was Jacobs School of Engineering with 211 new awards, amounting to 35 percent of all new awards.

“Our strategic focus will continue to adapt and align with emerging trends, ensuring that UC San Diego remains a leader in advancing knowledge and addressing critical issues,” said Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Corinne Peek-Asa. “As leaders in a number of large and exciting new grant programs, our research standing and its potential for growth and social impact is undeniable. Our impact arises from projects large and small, and I am confident that our future contributions to advancing knowledge and solving critical problems will continue to expand.”

Reflecting our research prowess, Peek-Asa noted that the university was once again named No. 7 among U.S. public universities in the latest Center for World University Rankings, upholding its position from the previous year. 

And looking ahead, the report shows that the number of proposals submitted for future grants grew by more than 15 percent in FY24. More than 800 new proposals for grants were submitted in FY24 over the past fiscal year — amounting to well over $1 billion in new funding requests.

OVERALL RESULTS

Total federal award dollars fell by 6 percent compared to the previous fiscal year, signaling a federal funding trend.

Notably, awards from  UC San Diego’s largest funding source The National Institutes of Health saw an 8 percent reduction, while National Science Foundation funding decreased by 18 percent, and NASA awards fell by 19 percent. 

Conversely, UC San Diego experienced increases in award funding from the Department of Energy and the Department of Defense — 12 percent and 3 percent, respectively. 

Expenditures related to the State of California also surged by 30 percent, and private non-profit organizations contributed 14 percent more than the previous year.

Industry and other government funding saw declines of 12 percent and 18 percent, respectively, reflecting broader shifts in the funding landscape. 

Despite these reductions, UC San Diego's commitment to diversity and inclusion remained evident, with a 13 percent increase in grant submissions by women principal investigators and an 18 percent rise in submissions by underrepresented minority faculty.

Total research funding obligations, meaning all funds available to the university, are not reflected in the annual figure. The annual report identifies only grant money received during this fiscal year. This does not include any funding that will become available in future years, for instance, in subsequent years of a multi-year award.

The report covers the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.

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