The University of California is a renowned public research institution that has grown remarkably since its founding. What started in 1869 with just 38 members has now expanded into a system serving nearly 300,000 students across 10 campuses in 2024.
With a reputation for academic excellence, the UC system offers over 800 majors and has become a top choice for students worldwide. Especially, in fields ranging from STEM to liberal arts, the UC system presents a top-tier option.
Why Choose the University of California?
- Top Public University System: UC’s reputation as a leading public university is cemented by campuses like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego which are consistently ranking among the best in the world.
- STEM Excellence: UCB and UCLA are renowned for their expertise in STEM fields. UC Santa Cruz excels in astronomy and space sciences, and UCSD is leading in biological sciences.
- Networking Opportunities: The location, connections and networking opportunities allows students to connect with professionals in STEM, business, and entertainment industries across California, from Silicon Valley to Hollywood.
- Research Focus: With Nobel Prize-winning faculty and cutting-edge research facilities, UC allows students to engage in revolutionary research.
The UC System
The University of California is divided into three tiers.
- University of California (UC): The most competitive tier, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs across 10 campuses with over 2 million alumni worldwide.
- California State University (CSU): A state school system with 23 campuses, 7 off-campus centres, 457,000 students. They emphasise on quality liberal arts education.
- California Community Colleges: There are 116 colleges which offer associate degrees and transfer opportunities to four-year universities at lower costs.
The Application Process
University of California’s application process is quite straightforward, yet competitive. The UC portal opens on August 1st with a submission deadline of November 30th.
- Personal Insight Questions: Applicants must respond to 4/8 short prompts instead of essays.
- Requirements & Assessment: Applicants are evaluated based on academics, extracurricular activities, volunteering in addition to standardised test scores & AP courses.
- Standardised Tests: UC eliminated its standardised test requirement in 2020. They no longer consider SAT/ACT scores when making admissions decisions.
- Why you should still attempt the SAT/ACT: Restricted majors are highly competitive programs that have specific requirements beyond the standard application process. These majors receive a high number of applicants and have limited capacity, so meeting the minimum admission requirements may not be enough to secure a spot. Although SAT/ACT are not mandatory, they may be evaluated to assess suitability for certain majors.
Financial Aid
The University of California system offers financial aid primarily to in-state students. Those from families earning less than $80,000 receive a full ride. Financial aid for international students is limited to very few merit-based scholarships. Students must explore external funding sources or merit scholarships that are applicable to their field of study.
UC Berkeley
Founded in 1868, UCB is one of the world’s top research universities (US News #5 best research university in the country. ) With a 19.4-to-1 student-faculty ratio and 184 programs, it has produced 35 Nobel laureates in Physics, Economics, Medicine and Chemistry. It is also known for its strong engineering and computer science programs. Berkeley’s location near Silicon Valley makes it ideal for students looking to break into the tech industry.
Why UCB?: One of the best schools for STEM, strong research opportunities, and proximity to tech giants.
UCLA
Established in 1919, UCLA offers over 5,000 courses across a variety of programs. The most popular majors are Economics, Political Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Film & theatre. Located close to Hollywood, UCLA is the perfect choice for students interested in the entertainment industry. Additionally, there are 5 hospitals under UCLA Health providing hands-on learning in medicine. They operate 280 clinics throughout Southern California.
Why UCLA?: Excellence in medicine, research, and entertainment fields, with a vibrant campus life and strong medical programs. 50% of in-state students don’t pay tuition.
UCSB
Founded in 1891, UCSB offers over 200 majors. They have incredibly strong programs in Physics, Liberal Arts, and Engineering. UCSB comprises of 5 schools. The most competitive is The College of Creative Studies, followed by College of Engineering. UCSB is known for emphasis on interdisciplinary education.
Why UCSB?: Great for liberal arts, creative studies, and a balance of rigorous academics with unique location as it is situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.
UCSD
Founded in 1960, UCSD has quality Biological Sciences, Cognitive Science, and Computer Science programs. It is home to 16 Nobel laureates and a world-leading neuroscience faculty. It comprises 8 colleges which focus on interdisciplinary studies makes it ideal for students looking to pursue multiple fields of interest.
Why UCSD?: Excellent Cognitive Science programs, location and research. Strong academic and liberal arts environment. Perfect for creative thinkers who wish to pursue different fields of study in one place.
UCI
Founded in 1965, UCI is known for its vigorous Computer Science, Biology, and Business programs. The university’s STEM courses attract tech recruiters, and 73% of students participate in undergraduate research by the time they graduate. UCI’s athletics teams have won 28 national titles in nine sports, and 64 student-athletes have won individual national titles.
Why UCI?: Strong in STEM, great research opportunities, and branched industry connections.
UC Davis
Founded in 1905, UC Davis is the sixth University of California campus, offering over 100 majors. It is particularly renowned for its programs in Agriculture, Environmental Science, and Biological Sciences. The campus comprises four colleges and professional schools, with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences being the most competitive. UC Davis emphasises hands-on learning and research.
Why UC Davis?: Great for agriculture, environmental science, managerial economics and biological sciences.
UCSC
Established in 1965, UC Santa Cruz offers over 70 majors and is well-known for its strong programs in Environmental Studies, Computer Science, Psychology, and Liberal Arts. It has a 22:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The campus is organised into ten residential colleges. The most competitive programs are in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Why UCSC?: The school is known for its progressive values and commitment to social justice. They emphasise on interdisciplinary education and practical learning experiences.
UC Riverside
Founded in 1954, UC Riverside offers over 150 minors and majors. The most popular programs are Business, Biology, Psychology and Engineering. The campus comprises several colleges, with the UCR School of Business being particularly competitive. UC Riverside provides ample opportunities for students to engage in community service and internships.
Why UCR?: It has diverse programs and a supportive student body. Excellent business and engineering programs. Its location in Southern California provides a number of professional opportunities.
UC Merced
Established in 2005, UC Merced is the newest campus under the University of California and offers 25 majors and 25 minors. It is gaining recognition for its programs in Engineering, Social Sciences, and Management. The school focuses on research and sustainability. Students can volunteer and participate in research opportunities, volunteering and clubs. School Spirit is lively with a conducive environment. The campus is working on sustainability and made several modifications to contribute towards SDG despite the increasing student intake.
Why UC Merced?: It is the fastest growing public research university. It is perfect for students interested in extensive research and sustainability.
What’s Different about the UC System?
The University of California system caters to your interests in every field imaginable. Whether you’re interested in the sciences, humanities, arts, or social issues, there’s a UC campus that aligns with your passions and career goals.
At Oneiro, we understand the challenges that come with college applications, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re trying to decide what to study, where to apply, or how to manage time, we’re here to help. Book a free consultation call with us today!
