<p>Hello,
I’ve recently heard some rumors that the UCs score their applicants based on some sort of semi-formal points system (e.g. 4 points possible for SATs, 4 for essays, take the highest x% of scores sort of thing). I was just wondering if this idea had any merit to it, and if anyone knew more specifics if it isn’t utterly wrong.</p>
<p>UCSD and UCD do indeed use a point system. However, they take many more factors into consideration, of course weighing each one differently: UC GPA, test scores, leadership positions, low-income family, first-generation college student, whether you have overcome any difficulties growing up (in your essays, this is all essays count for, nothing else), and other extracurricular.</p>
<p>There is a report online called the Houte Report that details UC Berkeley's holistic admissions. Although it is about augmented review, there is information in the report about regular admissions and the 4-3-2-1 type of point system is referenced (briefly). One can learn a lot by reading through the entire 60 page report.</p>
<p>There is apoint system, but the secret ingredient is the judgment of each reviewer in scoring your app.</p>