<p>The UC's base qualification of an individual based on numerous factors, the major ones being GPA, Scores, and ECs. Though throughout the history of the UC system, a decently high GPA or score in competitive range was enough to give one a nod for admission, but nowadays this has changed. Due to the ever competitive pool of senior applicants from California and around the world, the UCs are turning away highly qualified candidates in terms of scores or GPA not unlike the top private schools. A strong EC base seems to be of tremendous help these days, and the stereotypical UC applicant, with just a several hundred hours of volunteering and membership in a few clubs would not be considered much seriously.</p>