[UPDATED 2025] UC Irvine Acceptance Rate & Admission Guide
Acceptance Rate Trend
| Year | Acceptance Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 38.68% |
| 2016 | 40.65% |
| 2017 | 36.51% |
| 2018 | 28.76% |
| 2019 | 26.54% |
| 2020 | 29.92% |
| 2021 | 29.00% |
| 2022 | 21.15% |
| 2023 | 25.57% |
| 2024 | 28.8% |
| 2025 | 28.8% |
UC Irvine Acceptance Rate (Latest)
For the Class of 2028 (Fall 2024 entry), UC Irvine received a record number of applications and admitted a highly accomplished cohort.
28.8%
Overall Acceptance Rate
122,699
Total Applicants
35,296
Number of Students Admitted
Academic Profile of Admitted Students
4.04–4.27
Weighted High School GPA (Middle 50%)
3.83–4.00
Unweighted High School GPA (Middle 50%)
Not Considered
SAT/ACT for California Residents
ℹ️ UCI is test-blind for California residents and does not consider SAT/ACT scores for admission. For out-of-state/international applicants who choose to submit, competitive SAT range (Fall 2019): 1250–1510; ACT: 24–31.
Acceptance Rate by Residency Status
UC Irvine's acceptance rate varies by residency. For Fall 2024, California residents had an admit rate of 22%, out-of-state applicants 50%, and international applicants 43%.
| Residency | Acceptance Rate (2024) |
|---|---|
| California Resident | 22% |
| Out-of-State (U.S.) | 50% |
| International | 43% |
ℹ️ Non-resident and international admit rates are typically higher due to a smaller applicant pool and institutional priorities.
Demographics of Admitted Students (Fall 2022)
| Race/Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Asian | 37% |
| Hispanic/Latino | 26% |
| White | 13% |
| Nonresident (International) | 15% |
| Black or African American | 2% |
| Two or more races | 5% |
| American Indian or Alaska Native | 0.1% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 0.2% |
| Unknown | 1% |
How Does UC Irvine Compare?
UC Irvine’s selectivity and academic profile are comparable to other top flagship public universities. Its acceptance rate, average SAT, and GPA metrics reflect a competitive admissions process that aligns with elite public institutions.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Avg SAT | Avg GPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| UC Irvine | 26–29% | 4.04–4.27 | 1310 (1180–1440) |
| UC San Diego | 24–25% | 4.10–4.28 | 1360 (1250–1470) |
| UC Santa Barbara | 28% | 4.13–4.29 | 1345 (1230–1460) |
| UC Davis | 42% | 4.00–4.26 | 1270 (1140–1400) |
ℹ️ The average GPA is based on the middle 50% weighted GPA for admitted students (2024).
How to Boost Your Chances of Getting In
- Demonstrate leadership through measurable change. Instead of simply listing a title, describe how you reduced school waste through data collection or launched a new club during a difficult time.
- Choose recommenders who can demonstrate how you think critically and connect ideas beyond the classroom.
- Use the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) to highlight specific ways you’ve made an impact, whether that’s founding a student initiative or mentoring underclassmen. Be detailed and authentic.
- For highly competitive majors like Computer Science or Biological Sciences, emphasize relevant achievements like science research, internships, or related club leadership.
- Focus on a few extracurriculars where you made a real difference. For example, did you lead a tutoring program that expanded school-wide or organize a fundraising event that exceeded goals?
- If you're applying as an undeclared or exploratory major, use that as a strength. Reflect on your curiosity and how UCI’s interdisciplinary flexibility will help you discover your academic path.
- Mention challenges you’ve overcome, especially if they shaped your perspective. The UC system values resilience, adaptability, and initiative.
UC Irvine Admissions FAQs
Q. Does UC Irvine offer Early Action or Early Decision?
A. No. UC Irvine does not offer Early Action or Early Decision. All applicants are reviewed under the same Regular Decision process through the University of California (UC) application system. The application opens on August 1 and must be submitted by November 30.
Q. What GPA do I need to get into UC Irvine?
A. Most admitted students have a weighted GPA between 4.04 and 4.27 (middle 50%). The median GPA is around 4.18. However, UC Irvine uses a holistic review process, which means they also consider extracurriculars, leadership, challenges overcome, and more.
Q. Are SAT or ACT scores required for UC Irvine?
A. No. UC Irvine is test-blind for California residents and does not consider SAT/ACT scores in admissions decisions. Out-of-state and international students may submit scores, but they will only be considered for course placement or scholarships—not for admission.
Q. How does UC Irvine evaluate applications?
A. UCI uses a comprehensive, 13-factor holistic review process outlined by the UC system. This includes academic performance, rigor of coursework, leadership, special talents, Personal Insight Questions (PIQs), and context such as life challenges or educational barriers.
Q. Does UC Irvine consider the major I apply to?
A. Yes. Admission is selective by major, especially for high-demand programs like Computer Science, Biological Sciences, and Business Administration. Demonstrating interest and achievement in your intended field can strengthen your application.
Q. How important are the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)?
A. Very important. PIQs give you a chance to share your story, values, and accomplishments beyond the numbers. Each UC campus reads them carefully. Use them to show leadership, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth.
Q. Can I apply undeclared to UC Irvine?
A. Yes, you can apply undeclared, especially in the School of Humanities or Social Sciences. However, competitive majors like Engineering or Business may have limited spots for undeclared students. If you're exploring interests, explain why that exploration matters to you.
Q. What is the application timeline for UC Irvine?
A. The UC application opens on August 1, and the submission window is from October 1 to November 30. Admission decisions are typically released in mid-March. There is no Early Action or Early Decision option.
Q. Does UC Irvine offer interviews?
A. No. UC Irvine does not conduct interviews as part of the undergraduate admissions process.
Q. Is financial aid available for UC Irvine students?
A. Yes. UCI offers need-based aid, merit scholarships, and support through the UC Blue & Gold Opportunity Plan for in-state students from families making under $80,000. International and out-of-state students have more limited aid options.