UC Schools Break their Own Records for Fall 2023 First-Year Applications

The University of California is breaking admissions records again! Overall, UC admitted 88,285 Californian first-year applicants, an increase of 3.5% over last year, with gains posted at most of the nine undergraduate campuses. UCLA admitted 9.5% of California first-year applicants and UC Berkeley, 15.1%, both slightly up compared to last year.

Already considered one of the most “sought-after higher education systems in the world,” this recent surge only solidifies this belief. After a downward trend in 2019 and 2020, this new record is a welcome relief. Many attribute the increase, especially among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups and low-income students, to eliminating the ACT and SAT testing requirements, outreach efforts to California high schools, and increased efforts to reach new students worldwide through online recruiting.

UC Schools Break Diversity Records

In addition to being the largest applicant pool in the University of California’s history, this year’s applicants were also the most diverse ever!

Overall, 44% of UC’s admitted class of first-year applicants and 37% of transfer students are members of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, a diversity reflecting the state’s demographic shifts and more than 25 years of UC experimentation in how to create diverse classes without affirmative action. About 45% of California admitted students are the first in their families to attend college and 47% are low-income.

The number of admitted students from other states and countries rose over last year but was lower than 2021 levels. UC admitted 23,696 first-year students from other states, compared with 22,798 in 2022 and 28,157 in 2021. International students numbered 17,704 for fall 2023 compared with 17,531 in 2022 and 19,973 in 2021.

Admission rates inched up systemwide, to nearly 67%, and at nearly all campuses. UC Santa Cruz opened its doors most widely, accepting 10,000 more first-year students for this year over last year, a whopping 44.5% increase.

At several of the system’s most sought-after campuses, the admission rate is much lower. UCLA admitted 9.5% of California first-year applicants and UC Berkeley, 15.1%, both slightly up compared to last year.

How Crimson can Help You Get into a UC School

The schools in the University of California system are some of the best in the world. It’s no wonder so many students apply to these prestigious universities.

If you’re interested in applying to UCLA, UC Berkeley, or any other top UC schools, Crimson Education can help. Our admissions advisors understand everything about the University of California system. They can help you choose classes and extracurriculars that pair well with your future major and answer any questions you have about the UC application process. Schedule a free consultation with an admissions counselor today.