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<\/p>\nGetting into UCLA isn\u2019t just a dream, it\u2019s an academic battlefield. Each year, tens of thousands of students fight for one of the limited seats at this world-renowned university. The UCLA acceptance rate has been steadily shrinking, making it one of the most selective public universities in the United States. But here\u2019s what most applicants don\u2019t realize: acceptance rates vary dramatically by major.<\/p>\n
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If you\u2019re wondering why some students seem to get in more easily than others, it\u2019s not luck. It\u2019s strategy. Your choice of major plays a huge role in your admission chances.<\/p>\n
UCLA\u2019s most competitive programs<\/a>\u2014like Computer Science, Business Economics, and Film\u2014can have acceptance rates as low as 3%. Meanwhile, less competitive majors may see rates above 20%. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: from departmental data to tips on picking a program that balances passion and practicality.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s start with the big picture. UCLA received over 145,900 applications for Fall 2024<\/strong>, admitting roughly 12,570 students<\/strong>\u2014an acceptance rate of 8.6%<\/strong>. Compare that to 14% a decade ago<\/strong>, and you\u2019ll see how much tougher things have become.<\/p>\n The decline isn\u2019t random. It\u2019s fueled by UCLA\u2019s global reputation, the UC system\u2019s test-optional policy, and international demand. The school draws students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries. UCLA consistently ranks among the top 20 universities globally<\/strong>, combining elite research output with California sunshine\u2014a magnet for ambitious students.<\/p>\n Notice the consistency: despite thousands more applicants, the admitted pool remains roughly the same size. That\u2019s why every decimal point matters.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s talk about the sharks of the pool\u2014majors that eat up GPA, test scores, and essays for breakfast.<\/p>\n The UCLA Samueli School of Engineering is notoriously competitive. The Computer Science major<\/strong> has one of the lowest acceptance rates<\/strong> at UCLA\u2014hovering between 3% to 6%<\/strong>. Students admitted here often have GPAs near 4.0<\/strong>, SAT equivalents above 1500<\/strong>, and a history of coding, research, or math contests.<\/p>\n Business Economics sits under the College of Letters and Science, but don\u2019t let that fool you. With roughly 6,000 applicants a year<\/strong> and an admit rate near 6%<\/strong>, it\u2019s one of the toughest social science majors. Students often double down with internships or entrepreneurial projects to stand out.<\/p>\n This major demands not just academic excellence but also artistic vision. Applicants must submit creative portfolios and statements of purpose, making this process holistic yet cutthroat. The School of Theater, Film, and Television<\/strong> accepts around 3% of applicants<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Psychology\u2019s popularity makes it ultra-competitive. With thousands of applicants annually, its admit rate sits around 7\u20138%<\/strong>\u2014one of the tightest among liberal arts majors.<\/p>\n \u201cEasiest\u201d doesn\u2019t mean \u201ceasy.\u201d Every program at UCLA is selective, but some have lower demand or broader acceptance criteria.<\/p>\n Programs like African American Studies or Gender Studies tend to have smaller applicant pools. The acceptance rate often exceeds 20%<\/strong>, though this still requires strong academics and a compelling personal story.<\/p>\n Linguistics at UCLA is world-class but not oversaturated. Many students overlook it, giving applicants an advantage. Admits here typically come with solid writing skills and academic curiosity rather than perfect test scores.<\/p>\n These humanities programs attract fewer applicants but are deeply respected academically. Students interested in literature, ancient languages, or history will find admission somewhat more attainable\u201415\u201318% acceptance rates<\/strong> are typical.<\/p>\n If math and science fascinate you, this field offers a scientific path with less brutal competition than engineering or physics.<\/p>\n Each UCLA college runs its own admission process:<\/p>\n These distinctions matter because UCLA doesn\u2019t allow easy switching between colleges after admission. Applying strategically means aligning your major with your strengths and experience.<\/p>\n GPA is king at UCLA. Most admitted students fall within a 4.18\u20134.33 weighted GPA range<\/strong>. But grades alone won\u2019t save a bland application.<\/p>\n UCLA uses a holistic review<\/strong> process. That means essays, extracurriculars, and leadership matter. You\u2019ll need to show impact, not just activity\u2014how your presence made a difference in a club, community, or cause.<\/p>\n Think about context. A 3.8 GPA while working part-time or supporting family may weigh as heavily as a 4.2 GPA without challenges. UCLA admissions officers read stories, not statistics.<\/p>\n UCLA loves transfer students\u2014especially from California community colleges. Transfer rates hover around 19\u201323%<\/strong>, depending on the major.<\/p>\n STEM and Business majors remain tougher for transfers, while humanities majors have more flexibility. Completing major prerequisites and maintaining a 3.7+ GPA<\/strong> can make all the difference.<\/p>\n Apply early and meet every UC requirement precisely.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Tailor your essays to reflect depth\u2014show growth, not perfection.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Highlight leadership in your activities, not just participation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Don\u2019t underestimate letters of recommendation (for certain programs).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Be strategic: apply to a major that aligns with your authentic interests and your academic record.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n Despite the fierce competition, UCLA\u2019s payoff is enormous. Graduates join an elite alumni network, earn high early-career salaries, and benefit from unparalleled research and internship opportunities in Los Angeles. The university offers over 125 majors<\/strong> and 90 minors<\/strong>, making it one of the most diverse academic environments in the world.<\/p>\n Getting into UCLA isn\u2019t just about numbers\u2014it\u2019s about narrative. The acceptance rate by major shows how strategic choices shape opportunity. Whether you\u2019re drawn to coding, cinema, or classics, success comes from pairing passion with preparation. About 8.6% for Fall 2024, one of the lowest among public universities.<\/p>\n Computer Science and Film are tied at around 3\u20134%.<\/p>\n Majors like African American Studies, Linguistics, and Comparative Literature have higher acceptance rates\u2014around 15\u201320%.<\/p>\n Sometimes. The \u201cUndeclared\u201d route in Letters and Science can offer flexibility, but it won\u2019t bypass competitiveness entirely.<\/p>\n Most admits have a weighted GPA above 4.18.<\/p>\n Slightly. UCLA admits around 13\u201314% of out-of-state applicants compared to higher in-state rates.<\/p>\n Between 19\u201323%, depending on major and transfer coursework.<\/p>\n Possible within the same college but very difficult across colleges (e.g., from Letters and Science to Engineering).<\/p>\n Extremely. They differentiate equally qualified students and reflect personal context.<\/p>\n Show who you are beyond numbers\u2014authenticity and resilience stand out.<\/p>\n Is UCLA Getting Harder to Get Into? UCLA Admissions by 2026 and Beyond<\/a><\/p>\n UCLA Acceptance Rate by Major \u2014 Where It\u2019s Hardest and Easiest to Get In<\/a><\/p>\n UCLA Acceptance Rate 2024\u20132025 | How Hard Is It to Get Into UCLA?<\/a><\/p>\nUCLA Overall Acceptance Rate Trends<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Historical UCLA Acceptance Rates<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\n \nYear<\/th>\n Applicants<\/th>\n Admitted<\/th>\n Acceptance Rate<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n 2018<\/td>\n 113,761<\/td>\n 15,970<\/td>\n 14%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2019<\/td>\n 111,306<\/td>\n 13,720<\/td>\n 12.3%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2020<\/td>\n 108,837<\/td>\n 12,781<\/td>\n 11.7%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2021<\/td>\n 139,490<\/td>\n 15,028<\/td>\n 10.8%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2022<\/td>\n 145,904<\/td>\n 12,836<\/td>\n 8.8%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2023<\/td>\n 146,386<\/td>\n 12,473<\/td>\n 8.5%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 2024<\/td>\n 145,900<\/td>\n 12,570<\/td>\n 8.6%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n The Hardest Majors to Get Into at UCLA<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Engineering and Computer Science<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Business Economics<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Film, Television, and Digital Media<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Psychology<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The Easiest Majors to Get Into at UCLA<\/strong><\/h2>\n
African American Studies<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Linguistics<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Classics and Comparative Literature<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences<\/strong><\/h3>\n
UCLA Acceptance Rate by College<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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\n \nCollege<\/th>\n Acceptance Rate<\/th>\n Focus Area<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n College of Letters and Science<\/td>\n ~9%<\/td>\n Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Samueli School of Engineering<\/td>\n ~6%<\/td>\n Engineering, Computer Science<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n School of the Arts and Architecture<\/td>\n ~5%<\/td>\n Design, Architecture<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Herb Alpert School of Music<\/td>\n ~7%<\/td>\n Music Performance, Composition<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n School of Theater, Film, and Television<\/td>\n ~3%<\/td>\n Film, Acting, Production<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n School of Nursing<\/td>\n ~2%<\/td>\n Nursing and Health Sciences<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n GPA, Essays, and Extracurriculars: What Really Matters<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Transfer Acceptance Rates by Major<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Tips to Boost Your UCLA Admission Chances<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Why UCLA Is Worth the Challenge<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Conclusion: Strategy Meets Authenticity<\/strong><\/h2>\n
If you understand where UCLA is toughest\u2014and where it\u2019s most open\u2014you don\u2019t just increase your odds of admission. You align your goals with the kind of academic journey that will shape your life long after graduation.<\/p>\nFAQs About UCLA Acceptance Rate by Major<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What is UCLA\u2019s current overall acceptance rate?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Which major at UCLA is hardest to get into?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What\u2019s the easiest major to get into at UCLA?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Does applying undeclared improve my chances?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What GPA do you need for UCLA?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Are out-of-state students at a disadvantage?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What\u2019s UCLA\u2019s transfer acceptance rate?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Can I change my major after getting into UCLA?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How important are essays for UCLA?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What\u2019s UCLA\u2019s best advice for applicants?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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