Hi! I’m about to submit my application to California tonight, and I’m still on the fence regarding which campuses I want to apply to.
I have it narrowed down to San Diego and Berkeley, but I’m unsure which school would be the best fit for me - I’m not sure where I can find more information about the different campuses, and I want to make sure I want to spend the $140 applying to both…
Anyways, what I’m asking is what are the differences / benefits to the Berkeley campus, and the San Diego campus, compared to each other and the others?
(For reference, I have a 2040 SAT, 34 ACT, and a planned major of Psychology+Women’s Studies)
Both are very good schools, but Berkeley ranks higher and is considered more prestigious. From what I’ve heard, the environment at Berkeley is more cutthroat. One may argue that UCSD may allow a better social life. Berkeley is Division 1 while UCSD is Division 2. One important thing to note is that UCSD has a system of six residential colleges which determine what required courses you must take: https://www.quora.com/Whats-the-difference-between-and-significance-of-UCSDs-different-residential-colleges
I would pay the money and apply to both, see which you get into and go from there. What you are looking for could change a hundred times between now and April. If you get into both I would recommend going to both admitted student days and then deciding. Personally I feel like the social life is better at Berkeley. In my opinion, having a football team and a Division I basketball team increases school spirit. Plus they have much more tradition.
UCSD would be a match, Berkeley would be a reach.
@TomSrOfBoston The 34 ACT puts her about 3 whole composite marks above the average at Berkeley …