UCLA, known for its single-digit acceptance rate for freshman applicants, offers a more favorable scenario for transfer applicants compared to other elite universities like Stanford or Harvard. With an annual admission of 5,000-6,000 transfer students, UCLA presents reasonable odds for those seeking to transfer. Interestingly, acceptance rates for transfers at UCLA surpass those for first-year applicants. This blog will unveil essential information, including UCLA transfer acceptance rates, transfer application deadlines, requirements, GPA considerations, and more, providing valuable insights for prospective transfer students.
What is the UCLA transfer acceptance rate?
Explore the most recent UCLA transfer acceptance rate along with historical data:
- Fall 2023: 6,189 students accepted out of 23,974 applicants, resulting in a UCLA transfer acceptance rate of 25.8%.
- Fall 2022: 5,961 students admitted from a pool of 24,930 applicants, reflecting a UCLA transfer acceptance rate of 23.9%.
- Fall 2021: 5,622 transfer applicants and 28,645 acceptances, yielding a UCLA transfer acceptance rate of 19.6%.
Examining historical data is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the transfer admission landscape. While some institutions experience significant fluctuations in acceptance rates, UCLA has maintained stability in recent years.
Following are the historical transfer rates of UCLA:
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
| 2020 | 24% |
| 2019 | 23% |
| 2018 | 24% |
| 2017 | 26% |
Considering UCLA’s size, it’s crucial to delve into the transfer acceptance rates across various colleges and even within specific majors. For instance, in Fall 2023, the College of Letters and Science accepted 32% of transfer applicants, while the School of Engineering had an 11% acceptance rate. Notably, the School of Theater, Film & Television had a more selective acceptance rate of just 3.1%. A closer examination of majors within the College of Letters and Science reveals a range from a 65% acceptance rate (Applied Linguistics) to 10% (Atmospheric and Ocean Sciences). Similarly, the School of Engineering exhibited a similar spread. Understanding these nuances is crucial for prospective transfer students considering different academic paths within UCLA.
What are the UCLA transfer requirements?
To complete the UCLA application, students are required to submit the following items:
- A University of California Application
- Personal insight questions
- Supplemental materials, applicable to certain majors
It’s important to note that official transcripts and letters of recommendation are not part of the UCLA transfer requirements and are not accepted during the admissions process. However, by January 31, applicants must complete a Transfer Academic Update (TAU), providing fall grades and planned spring coursework. If accepted, final, official transcripts will be required.
In addition to these requirements, applicants should have:
- Junior-level standing (60 semester or 90 quarter transferable units completed) by the end of the spring term before transferring.
- A GPA of 3.2 or higher in transferable courses (with an average GPA over 3.5).
- Completion of two transferable courses in English composition or critical thinking and writing.
- Completion of one transferable math course with a prerequisite of intermediate algebra or higher.
- Four transferable college courses in at least two of the following subject areas: arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, physical and biological sciences.
Prospective transfer students are encouraged to thoroughly review the UC Transfer Admission Guide for comprehensive details on UCLA transfer requirements. Additionally, UCLA maintains articulation agreements with California community colleges, offering official guarantees of course transfer upon acceptance.
What is the UCLA transfer GPA?
Transfer students admitted to UCLA in 2023 displayed a mid-50th percentile GPA range of 3.72-4.0, with the median GPA for a successful transfer applicant standing at 3.88. These figures provide insight into the academic achievements of admitted transfer students and highlight the competitive nature of the GPA evaluation during the admissions process.
Is it hard to get into UCLA as a transfer?
In the fall of 2022, UCLA had a transfer acceptance rate of 23.9%, admitting 5,961 students out of 24,930 applicants. Comparatively, for the fall of 2021, 28,645 individuals applied for transfer admission, and 5,622 were accepted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 19.6%. Understanding these historical acceptance rates provides valuable insights into the competitiveness of the transfer process at UCLA.
Does UCLA accept international transfer students?
To be eligible for transfer to UCLA, applicants should have completed coursework equivalent to the junior level, encompassing 90-130 quarter units (or 60-90 semester units) of credit. UCLA exhibits a preference for transfer students from California community colleges, extending this preference even to international students. Meeting these criteria enhances the likelihood of a successful transfer application.
What is the UCLA transfer decision date?
UCLA releases transfer decisions in late April, providing applicants with the outcome of their admission status during this period.
What is the UCLA transfer deadline?
The UCLA transfer deadline for all academic programs is set for November 30. The application window opens on August 1, allowing applicants to commence the completion of all required materials during this period. The FAFSA deadline is March 2, and for various programs within specific schools, supplemental applications are also necessary. The schools requiring additional materials include the School of the Arts and Architecture, Herb Alpert School of Music, School of Nursing, and School of Theater, Film and Television.
Conclusion
Transferring to UCLA is a viable option for students seeking admission to this prestigious institution. While UCLA maintains a single-digit acceptance rate for freshman applicants, the transfer process offers more reasonable odds, with acceptance rates higher than those for first-year students. The university values diversity, and a significant proportion of transfer students come from California community colleges, contributing to the inclusive and varied student body. Understanding the specific requirements, deadlines, and GPA expectations is crucial for prospective transfer applicants to enhance their chances of a successful admission to UCLA.
UCLA primarily enrolls 92% of its transfer students from California community colleges, with an additional 5% originating from current University of California students. Non-California schools contribute to only 2% of the transfer pool. Notably, 34% of entering transfers represent underrepresented backgrounds, and 41% are first-generation students, reflecting UCLA’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.