Do I have a shot?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - Santa Barbara
1

I’m out of state, so I’m kind of confused about the application process to the UCs. I calculated my UC GPA and it’s 3.64, and I have a 31 ACT (took again this weekend, waiting for results). Solid ECs (president of a club, varsity captain, secretary of another club), and writing is my best subject so I hope to write a good personal statement. Do I have a chance of getting into UCSB? Money is not a concern. thanks so much in advance!!

2

Here are the average UC GPA and test scores for Freshman 2015. 2016 stats should be available in August.

High School UC GPA
4.05
ACT Composite Score
29
SAT Critical Reading
629
SAT Mathematics
665
SAT Writing

Much will depend upon intended major and if you calculated your UC GPA correctly.

https://rogerhub.com/gpa-calculator-uc/

Since you are OOS, you also want to make sure you meet all the a-g course requirements especially the Visual/Performing arts requirement.

UCSB will review your application as follows: 50% GPA/Test scores/HS course rigor and 50% EC’s/essays and special talent/unique circumstances/overcoming hardship etc…

GPA looks low for UCSB and but test score is on target. Definitely worth an application but by no means a solid match.

http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/campuses/files/freshman-profiles/freshman_profile_santa_barbara.pdf

3

Thanks so much @Gumbymom ! That’s actually the exact GPA calculator I used. I have been playing 3 instruments since I was little, and I’ve taken 4 years of orchestra, which I think counts for the performing arts requirement. Thanks again!!

4

Actually, I’m still a little unclear on the honors points. If I took 4 AP classes soph/junior year (1 in 10th, 3 in 11th), should I count that as 4 honors points or 8 (because I was in them for a total of 8 semesters)? If I count it as 8 honors points, that actually brings my UC GPA up to 3.93.

5

You should count them as 8 honors points if they were year long courses (8 semesters). If your UC GPA is 3.93, then it definitely increases your chances.

6

Great! Thanks again.

7

I was an applicant last year, and we have pretty similar stats, ECs, etc. I was invited to the chancellor’s reception as well, but I don’t think this happens for most OOS students (they invite by high achieving students by region, I believe, but only have a few OOS locations). Your acceptance will depend on your intended major, though. I wish you luck and hope to see you next year!

8

@weatherm thanks so much!! It’s great to hear that you got accepted :slight_smile: Hopefully I hear the same news!