University of California-San Diego
The University of California, San Diego is a top-tier public research university located in La Jolla, California. Part of the renowned University of California system, UCSD is recognized for its leading STEM programs, oceanographic research, and distinctive eight residential colleges.
Acceptance rate
27%
Undergrad enrollment
33,000
Test policy
Test blind
Application fee
$80
Application deadlines
| Round | Deadline |
|---|---|
| TransferTransfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) Deadline | September 30, 2026 |
| Regular DecisionRegular Decision Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
| TransferTransfer Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
| ScholarshipScholarship Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
| Financial AidFAFSA and CA Dream Act Priority Deadline | March 2, 2027 |
Supplemental essay prompts
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?