University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) - Uni4edu

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, United States

UCLA campus wide shot featuring Royce Hall with its Romanesque Revival architecture, Janss Steps leading up to the building, lush green lawns, palm trees, and students walking across the Westwood campus under clear blue California skies

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles, United States

Founded

1919

Institution Type

Public Research University

Total Students

49,000+

Acceptance Rate

~9%

Discover UCLA: A Premier Public Research University

Founded in 1919, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university located on a 419-acre campus in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. As the most applied-to university in the United States, UCLA received over 173,000 applications for fall 2025, reflecting its extraordinary appeal to students worldwide.

UCLA is organized into the UCLA College of Letters and Science and 12 professional schools, offering more than 5,000 courses across a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university receives approximately USD 1.6 billion annually in competitively awarded research grants and contracts, with over 6,000 funded research projects underway at any given time.

With a diverse student body of over 49,000 students from nearly 90 countries, UCLA fosters an inclusive academic community that emphasizes interdisciplinary teaching and early research opportunities for undergraduates. The university's alumni network includes Nobel laureates, Rhodes Scholars, Olympic medalists, and leaders across every field imaginable.

Key Milestones

  • 1919: UCLA founded as the Southern Branch of the University of California, becoming the first branch campus of the UC system.
  • 1929: The university moved to its current Westwood campus, with Royce Hall and three other original buildings opening their doors.
  • 1969: UCLA sent the first message on ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet, from Boelter Hall on campus.
  • 2024: UCLA joined the Big Ten Conference, marking a historic shift in the university's athletic program after decades in the Pac-12.

Academic Structure and Programs at UCLA

UCLA's academic offerings span the College of Letters and Science and 12 professional schools, providing students with more than 125 undergraduate majors and a vast array of graduate and professional degree programs. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary learning allows students to explore connections across diverse fields of study.

UCLA College of Letters and Science

The largest academic division at UCLA, the College encompasses the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, and physical sciences. It serves the majority of undergraduates and offers a broad liberal arts education.

  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Economics

Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science

One of the top-ranked engineering schools in the nation, Samueli offers programs in bioengineering, computer science, electrical engineering, and more. The school is known for cutting-edge research in areas such as AI, nanotechnology, and sustainable energy.

  • Computer Science
  • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Anderson School of Management

UCLA Anderson is a globally recognized business school offering MBA, FEMBA, EMBA, and doctoral programs. The school is particularly strong in technology, entertainment, and entrepreneurship, benefiting from its location in Los Angeles.

  • Full-Time MBA
  • Master of Financial Engineering
  • Ph.D. in Management

David Geffen School of Medicine

One of the most selective medical schools in the United States, the Geffen School of Medicine admitted just 3.29% of its applicants for fall 2024. It is a leader in biomedical research and clinical care through the UCLA Health system.

  • Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
  • M.D./Ph.D. Medical Scientist Training Program
  • Master of Science in Clinical Research

School of Law

UCLA School of Law is one of the top law schools in the country, known for its strengths in public interest law, entertainment law, and critical race studies. The enrolled class boasts a median LSAT score of 170.

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.)
  • Master of Laws (LL.M.)
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.)

School of the Arts and Architecture

This school offers programs in art, design, architecture, and world arts and cultures. Students benefit from Los Angeles's vibrant creative ecosystem and the school's state-of-the-art studios and galleries.

  • Architecture and Urban Design
  • Design Media Arts
  • World Arts and Cultures/Dance

UCLA Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission

  • Application SystemUC Application (single application for all UC campuses)
  • GPA RequirementMedian unweighted GPA of 4.00; median weighted GPA of 4.60 for enrolled freshmen
  • Standardized TestsTest-blind policy — SAT/ACT scores are not considered in the admissions process
  • English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required for international applicants
  • Personal Insight QuestionsFour out of eight prompts required (350 words each)
UCLA follows a test-blind admissions policy. SAT and ACT scores are not considered for admission or scholarship decisions. The fall 2024 first-year acceptance rate was approximately 9%.

Graduate Admission

  • Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last two years of undergraduate study
  • Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT required by some programs; check department-specific requirements
  • English ProficiencyTOEFL (minimum 87 iBT), IELTS (minimum 7.0), or equivalent for non-native speakers
  • Supporting DocumentsStatement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and CV/resume
Graduate admission requirements vary significantly by program. Professional schools such as Medicine, Law, and Anderson Management have separate application processes and deadlines. Contact your department directly for specific requirements.
November 1-30
UC Application Filing Period

All undergraduate applicants (freshman and transfer) submit the UC Application during this window.

March
Freshman Admission Decisions

Admission decisions for first-year applicants are typically released in mid to late March.

May 1
Statement of Intent to Register (SIR)

Admitted freshmen must confirm their enrollment by submitting the SIR by this date.

December - January
Graduate Application Deadlines

Most graduate programs have deadlines between December 1 and January 15; check your specific program for exact dates.

UCLA Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships

As a public university in the University of California system, UCLA offers different tuition rates for California residents and non-residents (including international students). The UC Board of Regents approved a multi-year Tuition Stability Plan to keep costs predictable for families.

Cost CategoryCA Resident (USD)Non-Resident / International (USD)
Tuition & FeesUSD 14,233USD 46,121
Housing & FoodUSD 18,579USD 18,579
Books & SuppliesUSD 1,044USD 1,044
Personal & TransportationUSD 7,164USD 7,164
TotalUSD 41,020USD 72,908

UCLA Scholarships and Grants

UCLA offers generous financial aid packages including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and work-study programs. Approximately 55% of enrolled students receive grants or scholarships with an average aid amount of USD 23,418.

  • Eligibility: All admitted students are automatically considered for university scholarships
  • Average Award: USD 23,418 per year
  • Students Receiving Aid: Approximately 55% of enrolled students

Regents Scholarship

The most prestigious scholarship at UCLA, the Regents Scholarship is awarded to the top incoming students based on academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. It includes an honorarium plus priority enrollment benefits.

  • Award Amount: Honorarium of USD 2,500 or more per year, plus additional need-based aid
  • Duration: Up to four years (renewable with satisfactory academic progress)
  • Additional Benefits: Priority enrollment, faculty mentorship, and access to special academic programs

UCLA Campus and Facilities

Spanning 419 acres in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, UCLA's campus blends Romanesque Revival architecture with modern facilities, all set against a backdrop of palm trees and Southern California sunshine. The campus is just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, Beverly Hills, and the cultural attractions of greater Los Angeles.

Housing and Dining

On-Campus Housing

UCLA guarantees housing for all four years of undergraduate study. Students can choose from residence halls, plazas, suites, or university apartments, all located within walking distance of classes and campus facilities.

  • Residence Halls with shared and single room options
  • Plaza and suite-style living with private bathrooms
  • University apartments for upperclassmen and graduate students

Dining Options

UCLA's dining program is widely recognized for its quality and variety. Multiple dining halls across campus serve a diverse range of cuisines, with options for every dietary preference.

  • Multiple residential dining halls with all-you-care-to-eat service
  • Campus cafes, food trucks, and quick-service restaurants
  • Accommodations for vegan, halal, kosher, and allergen-free diets

Student Life at UCLA

UCLA offers a vibrant and diverse student life experience, with approximately 1,200 student organizations, a thriving Greek community with over 60 chapters, and a rich tradition of community service. About 17,000 students participate in service activities each year, making engagement a cornerstone of the Bruin experience.

Student Organizations and Clubs

With roughly 1,200 registered student organizations, there is something for every interest at UCLA. Students can explore academic, cultural, professional, recreational, and service-oriented groups.

Cultural and Identity Organizations

Hundreds of cultural clubs celebrate UCLA's extraordinary diversity, including organizations representing virtually every ethnic, national, and identity group on campus.

Professional and Academic Societies

Pre-professional organizations in fields like medicine, law, engineering, and business connect students with industry mentors, networking events, and career development opportunities.

Media and Publications

Student-run media outlets include the Daily Bruin newspaper, Daily Bruin Television, UCLAradio.com, and various literary and creative publications.

Community Service and Volunteering

UCLA has a strong tradition of public service, with organizations like the Community Programs Office coordinating thousands of volunteer opportunities throughout Los Angeles.

UCLA Bruins Athletics

Big Ten Conference (joined August 2024)

  • Football
  • Men's Basketball
  • Women's Basketball
  • Gymnastics
  • Water Polo
  • Track and Field
126 NCAA Team Championships — Second Most in the Nation

Los Angeles: A World-Class City for Students

Los Angeles skyline at sunset with the downtown skyscrapers in the background, palm tree-lined boulevards, the Hollywood Hills visible in the distance, warm golden light illuminating the city
Los Angeles offers UCLA students access to world-renowned cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.

Life in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in the world, offering UCLA students unparalleled access to industries ranging from entertainment and technology to healthcare and aerospace. The city's year-round sunshine, beaches, mountains, and cultural attractions make it an exciting place to live and study.

Proximity to Major Industries

LA is a global hub for entertainment, technology, fashion, and healthcare, providing students with internship and career opportunities at leading companies and studios.

Cultural Richness

From the Getty Center and LACMA to the Hollywood Bowl and countless theaters, Los Angeles offers a world-class arts and culture scene right at your doorstep.

Outdoor Lifestyle

With beaches like Santa Monica and Malibu just minutes from campus, plus hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, students enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle year-round.

Diverse Food Scene

Los Angeles is celebrated for its incredible culinary diversity, with cuisines from around the world represented in neighborhoods across the city, from Koreatown to Little Tokyo to Olvera Street.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

85%
Four-Year Graduation Rate
Among undergraduate students
USD 59,063
Median Salary
Six years after graduation (US News)
500,000+
Living Alumni
Worldwide Bruin network

Top Employers Hiring UCLA Graduates

Google Amazon Apple Deloitte Microsoft NBCUniversal SpaceX Walt Disney Company

Practical Information for Students

For International Students

Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars

The Dashew Center provides comprehensive immigration advising, orientation programs, cultural adjustment support, and community-building events for UCLA's international population.

English as a Second Language Programs

UCLA offers academic English support through various programs designed to help international students strengthen their language skills for academic success.

Health Insurance Requirement

All international students are required to carry health insurance. UCLA offers the UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP), which can be waived with proof of equivalent coverage.

Key Contacts

UCLA Undergraduate Admission
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

UCLA Worldwide University Rankings

UCLA consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States and the leading research universities in the world. Its strong performance across multiple ranking systems reflects the university's excellence in teaching, research, and global reputation.

QS World University Rankings
#46
2026
Times Higher Education (THE)
#18
2025
US News Global Universities
#11
2025
US News National Universities
#17
2026
SubjectRanking BodyRank
EngineeringQS World Rankings by Subject#8 in the US
Business and ManagementQS World Rankings by Subject#9 Globally
Clinical MedicineUS News Global Subject RankingsTop 10 Globally
Computer ScienceQS World Rankings by Subject#7 in the US
medal icon
#31
Ranking
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13636
Graduate Students
badge icon
5464
Academic Stuf
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33040
Students
world icon
6347
International Students
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Public
Instution Type

Features

The University of California, Los Angeles, founded in 1919, stands as a premier public research institution. Currently, the campus supports a diverse student body of approximately 33,000 individuals pursuing various undergraduate and graduate degrees. This extensive academic environment is maintained by a dedicated workforce of over 35,000 faculty and staff members. As a global leader in education, the university continues to foster significant contributions to research, healthcare, and the arts within the Westwood community.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying

Work While Studying

See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation

Co-op/Internship Participation

Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.

Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter

September - January

3 week

Location

Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States

Location not found

Map not found.

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