University of California-Santa Cruz
The University of California, Santa Cruz is a public research university set within a coastal redwood forest overlooking Monterey Bay. UCSC combines the feel of a small liberal arts college through its distinctive residential college system with the impact of a major research institution.
Acceptance rate
73%
Undergrad enrollment
18,194
Test policy
Test blind
Application fee
$80
Application deadlines
| Round | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Regular DecisionRegular Decision | November 30, 2026 |
| TransferFall 2027 Transfer Entry | November 30, 2026 |
| ScholarshipScholarship Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
| Financial AidPriority Financial Aid 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?