<p>"UCLA is most interested in students who challenge themselves academically; applicants who attempt the most rigorous course work and are successful at achieving the highest levels of performance are the most competitive. Students are selected from across the applicant pool, where merits are defined beyond the standard academic measures, which include but are not limited to, grades, test scores, and academic subjects completed. Although academic factors are the most important for selection, personal achievements, and life challenges are also taken into account during the decision process."</p>
<p>so basically it's nearly impossible for me to get accepted. frosh. soph (right now) only reg. classes. doess good ecs. essays, recomms balance iT?</p>
<p>grades are always important. no one with really good gravy but no turkey is going to get admitted (of course, unless you have a hook). but with that said, a lot of the other factors can help balance out an applicant with just 'average' or 'decent' grades. good EC's are a factor (seems like a lot of students at UCLA are well-balanced) and good essays make a difference too (a lot of applicants overlook this part, but UCLA actually reads them). the UC's don't take letters of rec. </p>
<p>don't worry about your frosh GPA because it is not counted. work hard during your soph and junior years. try to take some honors or AP classes if you can. keep up your EC's. don't stress too much about grades because they are just one of many factors, but don't disregard them either cuz that's just a ticket to a rejection letter. also, don't forget about the SAT and SAT II's.</p>