<p>Please note that my understanding is as I stated. Without a 3.0, you will not be considered for admission as a freshman at any UC. Having 3.0 GPA determines whether you can be considered at all. Anything else such as being in top 9% in a local context or top 9% when test score is also considered determines whether you will be admitted to at least one UC, although not necessarily one of your choice. Until this year, you could also qualify separately by test scores only (combined SAT and SAT II scores) but that option no longer exists. The UCs seem quite clear on this stating: </p>
<p>“In order to be considered for admission, applicants must have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 (3.4 for nonresidents) in all “a-g” courses completed in grades 10 and 11, with no grade lower than a C.” [University</a> of California - Minimum admission requirements](<a href=“http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/counselors/freshman/minimum-requirements/index.html]University”>http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/counselors/freshman/minimum-requirements/index.html)</p>
<p>You need that 3.0 to be “considered for admission.”</p>