So I heard from people that it’s much more harder to get accepted to UCs because many people apply, and that for admission, they require more? or i don’t know, something else that are not required for the majority of universities for admission. Like, is it required taking SAT II tests? Also, why do people say Cali schools require a lot of work to apply? Thanks
SAT subject tests are only recommended (not required) in some situations (e.g. some engineering divisions may recommend SAT subject tests in math and a science) for applying to UCs.
UCs require essays in addition to self-reported courses and grades (verified later if you matriculate) and SAT or ACT scores. Recommendations are not used for admission, except in special cases where the admission office tells you that you can submit them. The UC system has one application and the CSU system has one application; neither is The Common Application.
Financial aid at UCs and CSUs is only good for California residents. It is not good for non-residents.
Agree with @ucbalumnus.
In addition, the UC’s are very tough to gain admission since the GPA has to be stellar to compete with some very talented and competitive state residents. SAT scores, EC’s and essay are all important.
Right now, I’m a high school senior in California. For the UCs, two personal statements are required a long with the SAT/ACT. I don’t think that you have to take both of SAT/ACT. You can choose. And for the SAT II, it’s not required. The deadline for UCs is November 30th.
The UC admission web site is remarkably clear.
http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/freshman/index.html
Give it a read and let us know if your have any specific questions
Also, the UC’s have a requirement of 1 year of visual/performing arts in a graded class. Most OOS aren’t aware of this requirement and often lack it for admission. It is an automatic reject if it is not included in the transcript.