University of California-San Diego

Getting in is the hard part. University of California-San Diego admitted 26.7% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of California-San Diego actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

We merge disciplines and surpass expectations, empowering students to think creatively across boundaries, resulting in unimagined discoveries.

The university's academic structure encourages creative thinking across disciplines, leading to new discoveries.

• Interdisciplinary Explorationmerging disciplines, creative thinking
• Billion-dollar Enterpriseinnovation hub, societal solutions

Verified from ucsd.edu and admissions.ucsd.edu and admissions.ucsd.edu and ucsd.edu and grad.ucsd.edu and admissions.ucsd.edu and admissions.ucsd.edu and admissions.ucsd.edu and ucsd.edu.

• Testingoptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from ucsd.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

  Up to 350 words

• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

  Up to 350 words

• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

  Up to 350 words

• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

  Up to 350 words

• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

  Up to 350 words

• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

  Up to 350 words

• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

  Up to 350 words

• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

  Up to 350 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from ucsd.edu.

The sticker price is about $38,701, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $12,470.

The UC system has one of the most generous and progressive financial aid programs in the nation, aiming for every qualified student to enroll, thrive, and graduate regardless of income.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $84,943.

Verified from ucsd.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

“Explore the Triton Health and Wellness Building, then engage in free speech activities, a Tuesday here.”

Located along the sun-soaked Southern California coast, the campus is home to the new Triton Health and Wellness Building.

Is University of California-San Diego test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of California-San Diego is optional.

How hard is it to get into University of California-San Diego?

Very hard. University of California-San Diego admits 26.7% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does University of California-San Diego cost?

The list price is about $38,701, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $12,470.

Is University of California-San Diego worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $84,943 ten years after enrolling, and 87% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.