<p>My son is applying to UCSC, wants to study computer science. We live in New York. I went to Berkeley a million years ago, but he goes to a private school that has a very different grading system than the typical public school in California. It's an intense private prep school with no weighted grades, no formal APs, they regard every class as honors and AP, but nothing officially. Everyone goes to college, one third goes to the Ivy League. His grades do NOT come up to the 3.4 required for out of state, and while his test scores are above the UCSC average 31 act, 690 math,680 critical reading, 630writing, total 2000, his totals are not going to make the UC score of 410-425 for getting in by examination. His essays are fabulous, and he has good explanations for why his grades were miserable his first two years... is there any road to take?</p>
<p>That's hard. If you live in state, UCSC has a very high acceptance rate. I applied to sc as my safety school. Unfortunately, with the budget cuts in CA, admission for CA residents is getting harder, meaning out-of-staters are going to have to have some amazing qualities to stand out. There is a way to get in touch with the dean, or admissions department, but you'll have to do your research. I actually laughed a little reading your blog, because your son has a good overall record, and if he lived here he would be sealed. I didn't answer much, but I would think he still has a good shot at getting in. Best of luck! California is a great choice:)</p>
<p>If he explained his grades in his essay, he might have a chance. thats what the essays are for</p>