![UCSD Acceptance Rate 2022 - 2026 [Latest Updated]](https://www.teezab.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Screenshot_20220715-200601.png "UCSD Acceptance Rate 2022 - 2026 [Latest Updated]")
Hello friend! Here is an explanation of the University of California, San Diego UCSD acceptance rate and admission statistics by major.
The University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego or UCSD) is one of the most competitive public research universities in the United States. Each year, it receives more than 130,000 undergraduate applications from students worldwide, making admission highly selective.
For students applying for the 2026/2027 academic session, understanding UCSD’s acceptance rate, admission requirements, GPA expectations, and application process can help you prepare a stronger application.
What Is the UCSD Acceptance Rate for 2026?
Based on the latest available admissions data, UC San Diego has an overall first-year acceptance rate of approximately 28.4%.
During the most recent admissions cycle, the university received 136,740 applications and admitted 38,846 students.
An acceptance rate of around 28% means UCSD is highly selective. Applicants need an excellent academic record, challenging coursework, and strong achievements outside the classroom to remain competitive.
Is UC San Diego Hard to Get Into?
Yes. UC San Diego is considered one of the more selective campuses in the University of California system. Admission decisions are made using the UC system’s comprehensive review process, which evaluates:
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High school academic performance
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Completion of required “A-G” college preparatory courses
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Strength of coursework
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Special talents and achievements
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Leadership and extracurricular activities
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Personal accomplishments and life experiences
Unlike many private universities, UC campuses do not consider SAT or ACT scores in admissions decisions.
UC San Diego Admission Statistics 2026
| Admission Statistic | Latest Data |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 28.4% |
| Total Applications | 136,740 |
| Students Admitted | 38,846 |
| Admission Selectivity | Highly Selective |
| Middle 50% Weighted GPA | 4.11–4.28 |
| SAT/ACT Policy | Not Considered |
| Application Platform | University of California (UC) Application |
UC San Diego Admission Statistics 2026
| Admission Statistic | 2026 Data (Latest Available) |
|---|---|
| University | University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) |
| Location | La Jolla, San Diego, California, USA |
| Admission Selectivity | Highly Selective |
| Acceptance Rate | 28.4% |
| Total Applications | 136,740 |
| Students Admitted | 38,846 |
| Students Enrolled | Approximately 7,300 |
| Middle 50% Weighted GPA | 4.11–4.28 |
| SAT/ACT Policy | Not Considered |
| Application Platform | University of California (UC) Application |
| Application Type | First-Year & Transfer |
UC San Diego Application Fee
| Application Type | Fee (2026) |
|---|---|
| California Resident | $95 |
| Domestic Non-Resident | $95 |
| International Applicant | $95 |
| Fee Waiver | Available for eligible applicants |
Note: The University of California charges $95 per campus. Applicants applying to multiple UC campuses must pay a separate application fee for each campus unless they qualify for a fee waiver.
UC San Diego Admission Requirements 2026
To apply for undergraduate admission to UC San Diego, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Complete the University of California (UC) Application.
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Finish all required A-G college preparatory courses.
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Maintain a competitive GPA.
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Submit official high school transcripts after admission.
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Complete the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs).
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Report all academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
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International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency (if required).
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SAT and ACT scores are not considered for admission decisions.
UC San Diego Application Deadline 2026
| Application Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| UC Application Opens | August 1, 2026 |
| Application Submission Begins | October 1, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | December 2, 2026 |
| Admission Decisions Released | March 2027 |
| Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) Deadline | May 1, 2027 |
UC San Diego Cost by Household Income
| Annual Household Income | Average Net Price |
|---|---|
| Less than $30,000 | $8,912 |
| $30,001–$48,000 | $10,765 |
| $48,001–$75,000 | $13,942 |
| $75,001–$110,000 | $18,357 |
| Above $110,000 | $35,684 |
Note: These figures represent the average annual net price after grants and scholarships and may vary depending on financial aid eligibility.
UC San Diego Graduation Rate 2026
| Graduation Metric | Rate |
|---|---|
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 72% |
| 5-Year Graduation Rate | 85% |
| 6-Year Graduation Rate | 88% |
| First-Year Retention Rate | 94% |
UC San Diego consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States for student retention and graduation success.
UC San Diego Graduation Rates by Gender
| Gender | Candidates | Graduates | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male | 2,930 | 2,514 | 85.80% |
| Female | 3,268 | 2,936 | 89.84% |
| Overall | 6,198 | 5,450 | 87.93% |
Female students have a slightly higher graduation rate than male students at UC San Diego.
UC San Diego Graduation Rates by Completion Periods
| Completion Period | Overall | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years or Less | 72.00% | 69.30% | 74.50% |
| 5 Years | 85.00% | 82.70% | 87.10% |
| 6 Years | 87.93% | 85.80% | 89.84% |
These figures show that the majority of UC San Diego students complete their degree within six years.
Frequently Asked Questions: UCSD Acceptance Rate 2026
What is the UC San Diego acceptance rate for 2026?
UC San Diego has an acceptance rate of approximately 28.4%, making it one of the more selective public universities in the United States.
Is UC San Diego difficult to get into?
Yes. UC San Diego is highly competitive and evaluates applicants through the University of California’s comprehensive review process, considering academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal achievements.
Does UC San Diego require SAT or ACT scores?
No. UC San Diego does not consider SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admissions.
What GPA do I need to get into UC San Diego?
Competitive applicants typically have a weighted GPA between 4.11 and 4.28, along with strong performance in college preparatory courses.
What is the application fee for UC San Diego?
The undergraduate application fee is $95 per UC campus, although eligible students may receive a fee waiver.
When is the UC San Diego application deadline?
The application submission period begins on October 1, and the deadline for first-year applicants is December 2, 2026, for the 2027 entry term.
Does UC San Diego accept international students?
Yes. UC San Diego welcomes international students from around the world. International applicants must meet the university’s admission requirements and English language proficiency standards where applicable.
Conclusion
UC San Diego remains one of the top-ranked public research universities in the United States, attracting outstanding students from across the globe.
With an acceptance rate of approximately 28.4%, admission is highly competitive, requiring excellent academic performance, rigorous coursework, and meaningful extracurricular involvement.
The university’s strong graduation rates, outstanding faculty, world-class research opportunities, and vibrant campus community make it an excellent destination for students seeking a high-quality education.
If you plan to apply for the 2026/2027 academic session, submitting a well-prepared application before the deadline will greatly improve your chances of admission.
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