<p>So the only reason my rank is so awful is because of my freshmen year. My sophomore and junior years were great and I have a UC GPA of 4.26, a 34 act and a lot of really good. EC's/essays. The only issue is my rank. Top 17%</p>
<p>I know the UC's claim that they don't account for rank, but there is no way that is possible if 97% of students are in the top 10%. I know there are ELC students, but I highly doubt they make up 97% of the school. They probably do this to keep their USWN ranking up.</p>
<p>I decided it's not worth it to apply to UCLA/Berkeley at this point, even as an OOS student if I'm fighting for the 3% of spots. Why is it like this?</p>
<p>Lots and lots and lots of applicants in the top 10%. Basic math.</p>
<p>It’s not impossible. My best friend (no hooks) got in this year and is middle of our class.</p>
<p>The 10% figure is statewide, not relative to one’s high school cohort. </p>
<p>You’ll be surprise, if you pay OOS $$$, you might get accepted. It’s not a secret.:D</p>
<p>^^ Yes. If you are paying OOS, then OP should ignore my above post. I totally forgot about the pay to play aspect.</p>
<p>So is it a bad idea to apply for financial aid? Do you think I would get any? I don’t think I can pay full freight 60k per year, but if they can lower it down to like 30-40k I can handle that fosho.</p>
<p>I guess I’ll apply after all.</p>
<p>It does not have to be full pay, but expect way more loans as OOS, not merit or scholarships. That is still money in the school’s pocket. You just pay it of later, but the school gets the loan money pronto. </p>