| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
Type: Public university system
Established: 1868 (originally in Oakland, later moved to Berkeley)
Campuses: 10 campuses spread across California
Enrollment: Over 285,000 students (across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs)
Faculty: Includes Nobel laureates, Fields Medalists, MacArthur Fellows, and Pulitzer Prize winners.
Each campus has its own unique focus and identity, but they all share the UC system's high standards for education and research.
UC Berkeley
Flagship campus, established in 1868.
Known for programs in engineering, law, computer science, business, and social sciences.
Frequently ranked among the top public universities worldwide.
UC Los Angeles (UCLA)
Located in Westwood, Los Angeles.
Renowned for film, performing arts, medicine, and business programs.
One of the most applied-to universities in the U.S.
UC San Diego (UCSD)
Located in La Jolla, near the Pacific Ocean.
Known for biotechnology, oceanography, engineering, and health sciences.
Affiliated with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
UC Davis
Known for agriculture, veterinary science, environmental studies, and biology.
One of the leading research universities in sustainability.
UC Irvine (UCI)
Known for computer science, healthcare, and public policy.
Located in Orange County, California.
UC Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Recognized for programs in physics, materials science, and marine biology.
Offers a beautiful campus by the beach.
UC Riverside (UCR)
Known for environmental research, entomology, and education programs.
Located in Inland Southern California.
UC Santa Cruz (UCSC)
Focus on liberal arts, space sciences, and astrophysics.
Situated near redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean.
UC Merced
The newest campus (opened in 2005).
Known for its focus on sustainability, renewable energy, and interdisciplinary research.
UC San Francisco (UCSF)
Exclusively focused on graduate programs in health sciences.
Renowned for its medical school, pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing programs.
Highly Competitive: UC campuses receive hundreds of thousands of applications every year.
Holistic Review: Admission decisions are based on a mix of academic achievement, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and diversity factors.
SAT/ACT: Many UC campuses have transitioned to a test-optional or test-free policy in recent years.
The UC system is a global leader in research, driving innovations across multiple disciplines:
Over $5 billion in annual research funding.
Breakthrough discoveries in areas like biotechnology, artificial intelligence, climate science, and medicine.
Home to three U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Los Alamos National Laboratory
The UC system places a strong emphasis on serving underrepresented groups and first-generation college students.
The UC campuses reflect California's diverse population, with programs aimed at fostering equity and inclusion.
The University of California has produced influential leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and researchers, including:
Steve Wozniak (Co-founder of Apple, UC Berkeley)
Jennifer Doudna (Nobel Prize winner for CRISPR technology, UC Berkeley)
Sandra Day O’Connor (First female U.S. Supreme Court justice, UC Berkeley)
Carol Burnett (Actress and comedian, UCLA)
The UC system provides bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields, often with opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, research, and experiential learning.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Biology, Microbiology, and Genetics
Computer Science
Data Science
Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering
Mathematics and Statistics
Environmental Science and Ecology
Cognitive Science
Physics and Astronomy
Bioengineering
Social Sciences
Psychology
Sociology
Political Science
Anthropology
Economics
International Relations
Humanities and Arts
English Literature
Philosophy
History
Communication Studies
Art History
Film, Theater, and Digital Media
Languages and Linguistics
Business and Management
Business Administration (e.g., at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business)
Economics and Management Science
Marketing and Entrepreneurship
Environmental and Agricultural Studies
Sustainable Agriculture (UC Davis)
Environmental Policy
Climate Science
Health and Pre-Med
Nursing Science (UCLA, UC Irvine)
Public Health
Pre-Med programs (preparation for medical school)
UC campuses are globally recognized for their advanced graduate programs, including master’s, Ph.D., and professional degrees (e.g., JD, MBA, MD). Graduate programs emphasize cutting-edge research, professional skills, and innovation.
Engineering and Technology
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
Aerospace Engineering
Materials Science
Life Sciences and Medicine
Molecular Biology and Genetics
Neuroscience
Medicine (offered at UC San Francisco, UCLA, UC Irvine, etc.)
Pharmacy (UC San Francisco)
Veterinary Medicine (UC Davis - ranked #1 globally)
Business and Management
MBA (e.g., UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, UCLA’s Anderson School of Management)
Finance and Investment Management
Supply Chain and Operations
Law and Public Policy
Juris Doctor (JD) - UC Berkeley’s School of Law and UCLA School of Law are top-ranked.
Public Administration
Human Rights Law and Environmental Law
Arts, Humanities, and Media
Fine Arts (UCLA, UC Santa Barbara)
Film and Television (UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television)
Creative Writing
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Environmental Policy and Planning (UC Berkeley, UC Davis)
Renewable Energy Studies
Data and Computer Science
Data Science and Analytics
Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Information Science
UC is home to several world-class professional schools in fields like medicine, law, business, public health, and education. Examples include:
UC Berkeley Haas School of Business: MBA, Executive MBA, and specialized business programs.
UC San Francisco (UCSF): Top-ranked medical, pharmacy, and dental schools.
UC Irvine School of Law: Specializes in public interest and environmental law.
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine: Ranked as the top vet school globally.
UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television: Recognized for excellence in the arts and media.
The UC system is a leader in addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary programs that blend traditional disciplines.
Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability (UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, UC Davis)
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (UC San Diego, UC Berkeley)
Public Health and Global Health Studies (UC Berkeley, UCLA, UCSF)
Space Sciences and Astrophysics (UC Santa Cruz, UC Berkeley)
The University of California also offers online courses and continuing education programs through platforms like:
UC Online: Offers a variety of online degree and certificate programs.
Extension Programs: All campuses provide professional certificates in fields like project management, digital marketing, data science, and UX design.
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) (For International Students) |
|---|---|---|
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Biological Sciences |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Data Science |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Public Health |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Anthropology |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Film and Media Studies |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
English Literature |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Cognitive Science |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Marine Biology |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
|
Agricultural Studies |
4 years |
$46,000 – $52,000 |
PhD/Doctorate Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) (For International Students) |
|---|---|---|
|
Computer Science |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Biological Sciences |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Physics |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Mathematics |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Environmental Science |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Astronomy and Astrophysics |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Chemistry |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Public Health |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Economics |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Psychology |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Sociology |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Political Science |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Anthropology |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Environmental Engineering |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Law (JSD – Doctor of Juridical Science) |
3–5 years |
$25,000 – $35,000 |
|
Business (PhD) |
4–5 years |
$20,000 – $40,000 (depending on campus and funding) |
|
Education |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Nursing Science |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Pharmacy (PhD) |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Veterinary Medicine (PhD) |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
|
Neuroscience |
4–6 years |
$18,000 – $25,000 (after funding, tuition waivers may apply) |
Globally Recognized Education:
UC campuses like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego consistently rank among the top universities in the world.
The UC system is renowned for its excellence in STEM, arts, business, law, and social sciences.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
UC campuses have a vibrant and multicultural student body, with students from over 140 countries.
Programs and resources are designed to help international students transition smoothly into academic and cultural life in the U.S.
World-Class Faculty and Research:
UC employs Nobel Prize winners, leading researchers, and scholars in various fields.
International students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects, internships, and industry collaborations.
California’s Appeal:
Studying in California offers pleasant weather, access to tech hubs like Silicon Valley, and proximity to industries in entertainment, biotechnology, and engineering.
The state also boasts a high quality of life with opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural events, and professional networking.
All 10 UC campuses accept international students. Here are some of the most popular campuses for international students:
UC Berkeley: Ranked as one of the best public universities globally, known for engineering, business, and social sciences.
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles): Famous for its programs in film, arts, healthcare, and business.
UC San Diego: A leader in biotechnology, oceanography, and engineering.
UC Davis: Renowned for agriculture, veterinary science, and environmental sustainability.
UC Irvine: Known for its strength in computer science, engineering, and psychology.
UC Santa Barbara: Strong programs in physics, marine biology, and environmental studies.
UC Riverside: Emerging strengths in business, environmental sciences, and agriculture.
UC Santa Cruz: Recognized for its focus on astrophysics, space science, and liberal arts.
UC Merced: The newest campus with a strong focus on sustainability and research opportunities.
UC San Francisco: Exclusively offers graduate-level programs in health sciences, medicine, and pharmacy.
The UC system uses a single application portal for all 9 undergraduate campuses (UC San Francisco only offers graduate programs). International students can apply to multiple campuses simultaneously using the UC Application.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Choose Campuses |
Select from 9 undergraduate campuses (e.g., UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego). |
|
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria |
- Minimum 3.4 GPA for international applicants. |
|
3. Language Proficiency |
- TOEFL: Minimum 80 iBT |
|
4. Application Submission |
Submit through the UC Application Portal during the October 1 – November 30 period for the Fall semester. |
|
5. Personal Insight Questions |
Answer 4 out of 8 essay prompts (350 words each). These are critical for showcasing your background, achievements, and personality. |
|
6. Submit Academic Records |
Upload transcripts or mark sheets for all previous schooling. Final documents may be required after admission. |
|
7. SAT/ACT (Optional) |
UC is now test-optional or test-free, so SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory. |
|
8. Application Fee |
- $80 per campus for international students. |
|
9. Submit Application |
Submit the completed application before the November 30 deadline. |
|
10. Admissions Notification |
UC campuses notify applicants in March–April for Fall admissions. |
Academic Requirements:
Completion of the A-G subject requirements (college-preparatory courses in math, science, English, etc.).
Important Dates:
Application window: October 1 – November 30 (for Fall intake).
Application Platform: UC Application.
The graduate admission process varies by program and campus, but the general steps are as follows:
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Choose a Program |
Explore programs offered at individual UC campuses and select the one that aligns with your career goals. |
|
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria |
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (varies by program). |
|
3. Language Proficiency |
- TOEFL: Minimum 90–100 iBT (depends on the program). |
|
4. Standardized Tests |
- GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs (e.g., engineering, business). |
|
5. Submit Application |
Complete the application through the specific UC campus graduate admissions portal. Deadlines typically range from December to February. |
|
6. Statement of Purpose |
Write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your academic and career goals. |
|
7. Letters of Recommendation |
Submit 2–3 letters of recommendation from professors or employers. |
|
8. Upload Transcripts |
Provide transcripts from all institutions attended. For international students, transcripts must be in English. |
|
9. Application Fee |
- $140 per program for international students. |
|
10. Admissions Decision |
Notifications are sent between March and May, depending on the program and campus. |
Important Dates:
Most programs have deadlines between December and February for Fall admission.
Application Platform: Each campus has a separate graduate division application portal.
Funding: Many graduate programs offer assistantships, fellowships, and grants.
PhD applicants generally follow the same process as graduate students but with additional focus on research experience and alignment with faculty advisors.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Research Program & Advisor |
Identify programs that align with your research interests and reach out to potential faculty advisors. |
|
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria |
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree with a strong academic background. |
|
3. Research Proposal |
Prepare a research proposal outlining your intended area of study and goals. |
|
4. Standardized Tests |
- GRE: Some PhD programs still require GRE scores. |
|
5. Submit Letters of Recommendation |
Provide 3 strong letters of recommendation from faculty or employers. |
|
6. Application Fee |
Typically $140 for international applicants per program. |
|
7. Admissions Decision |
Decisions are often communicated by March–May for Fall intake. |
The University of California typically has two main intakes:
Intake |
Application Period |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
October 1 – November 30 (Undergraduate) |
- Major intake for all programs (undergraduate and graduate). |
|
|
December – February (Graduate/PhD) |
- Most competitive and offers the widest range of programs. |
|
Spring Intake |
Limited availability (varies by campus) |
- Only a few undergraduate and graduate programs may admit. |
Fall intake is the most popular and widely available for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Spring intake is less common and only available for select programs or campuses (confirm with the specific program or campus).
Deadlines for graduate programs vary depending on the department but are typically between December and February for Fall intake.
International students applying for a bachelor's degree must meet academic, language, and other requirements.
Academic Requirements:
High School Completion: Must have completed high school (secondary education) equivalent to the U.S. system.
GPA:
A minimum GPA of 3.4 (on a 4.0 scale) is required for international applicants.
Equivalent grades in other systems are also acceptable (e.g., 80% or higher in CBSE/ICSE for Indian students).
A-G Course Requirements:
Applicants must complete the A-G subject requirements:
History/Social Science: 2 years
English: 4 years
Mathematics: 3 years (4 years recommended)
Laboratory Science: 2 years (3 years recommended)
Foreign Language: 2 years (3 years recommended)
Visual/Performing Arts: 1 year
College-Preparatory Elective: 1 year
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Some campuses accept DET with a minimum score of 115–120.
Standardized Tests (Optional):
The UC system is now test-optional or test-free, meaning:
SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory but can still be submitted for academic placement.
Test-free campuses will not consider SAT/ACT scores at all for admissions.
Personal Insight Questions:
Answer 4 out of 8 essay prompts (350 words each). These are an important part of the holistic review process.
To apply for a master's degree, international students must meet program-specific and campus-specific requirements.
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree:
Must have a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
In some cases, a three-year degree (like a B.Sc. from India) may be acceptable if combined with a master’s or post-graduate diploma.
GPA:
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in undergraduate studies (higher GPA may be required for competitive programs).
Standardized Tests:
Some programs may require:
GRE: Required for many STEM and humanities programs. Some programs have waived GRE requirements in recent years.
GMAT: Required for business programs (e.g., MBA).
Check program-specific requirements, as not all programs require these tests.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90–100 (varies by program).
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
PTE Academic: Some campuses accept PTE with a minimum score of 65–70.
Documents Required:
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explains your academic and career goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2–3 letters from professors or employers.
Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended.
Resume/CV: Required for certain programs (e.g., business, engineering).
Research Proposal: For research-based programs (if applicable).
PhD programs at UC are highly competitive and focus on research expertise.
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree:
A strong academic record in a related field.
GPA:
Minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher (varies by program and campus).
Research Experience:
Demonstrated research experience is critical for admission into PhD programs.
Applicants are encouraged to align their research interests with specific faculty members at the campus.
Standardized Tests:
GRE: Required for some PhD programs (varies by department).
TOEFL/IELTS: Same requirements as for master’s students.
Documents Required:
Statement of Purpose: Focus on research goals and why you are a good fit for the program.
Letters of Recommendation: At least 3 letters, ideally from professors or mentors who can speak to your research abilities.
Research Proposal: Outlines your intended area of study and its significance.
Transcripts: Academic records from undergraduate and graduate studies.
University of California Campus |
QS World University Ranking |
US News Global University Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
UC Berkeley |
Top 30 |
Top 5 |
|
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) |
Top 40 |
Top 15 |
|
UC San Diego |
Top 55 |
Top 20 |
|
UC San Francisco (UCSF) |
Not ranked (no undergrad programs, research-focused) |
Top 15 (Medicine & Health Sciences) |
|
UC Davis |
Top 120 |
Top 60 |
|
UC Irvine |
Top 150 |
Top 80 |
|
UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) |
Top 150 |
Top 70 |
|
UC Riverside (UCR) |
Top 400 |
Top 200 |
|
UC Santa Cruz (UCSC) |
Top 400 |
Top 200 |
|
UC Merced |
Top 600 |
Top 400 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Level |
Benefits |
Available at |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UC Regents Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement |
Undergraduate |
- Up to $2,500 annually |
All UC campuses |
|
Chancellor’s Scholarship |
Academic excellence and leadership |
Undergraduate |
(up to $5,000 annually) |
Select campuses (e.g., UC Berkeley, UCLA) |
|
Global Scholarship (UCLA) |
High-achieving international students |
Undergraduate |
$5,000 – $15,000 per year |
UCLA |
|
Undergraduate Dean’s Scholarship |
Academic excellence |
Undergraduate |
$2,000 – $10,000 |
UC Davis, UC Irvine, and others |
|
Fiat Lux Scholarship |
First-generation/low-income students |
Undergraduate |
Financial need-based award |
UC Berkeley, UC Riverside |
|
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship |
African students with leadership potential |
Undergraduate/Graduate |
Full tuition, fees, and living expenses |
UC Berkeley |
|
UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship |
Historically underrepresented groups |
Graduate/PhD/Postdoc |
Full tuition and living stipend |
All UC campuses |
|
Graduate Fellowships (various) |
Merit- or need-based |
Graduate/PhD |
Tuition, health insurance, and living stipend |
All UC campuses |
|
Eugene Cota-Robles Fellowship |
Underrepresented doctoral students |
PhD |
Tuition, fees, and $25,000 annual stipend |
UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, and others |
|
Fulbright Scholarships |
International students (specific countries) |
Graduate/PhD |
Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses |
All UC campuses |
|
Teaching/Research Assistantships (TAs/RAs) |
Graduate students |
Graduate/PhD |
Tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance |
All UC campuses |
|
UCLA Graduate Division Fellowships |
Merit-based |
Graduate/PhD |
$15,000 – $30,000 (varies by program) |
UCLA |
|
UC Santa Cruz International Fellowship |
International graduate students |
Graduate/PhD |
$5,000 – $10,000 |
UC Santa Cruz |
|
UC Davis Fellowship Program |
Academic excellence and research |
Graduate/PhD |
Full or partial tuition and stipend |
UC Davis |
|
Need-Based Scholarships |
Demonstrated financial need |
Undergraduate |
N/A |
All UC campuses |
|
External Scholarships (e.g., Rotary, AAUW) |
Open to all international students |
All levels |
depending on the organization |
All UC campuses |
UC Campus |
Accommodation Options |
Estimated Cost (Per Year) |
Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UC Berkeley |
- On-Campus: Residence Halls, Apartments |
$18,000 – $22,000 |
- Shared or single rooms |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$15,000 – $20,000 |
- Shared apartments or independent housing |
|
UCLA |
- On-Campus: Residence Halls, Suites |
$16,000 – $22,000 |
- Shared or private rooms |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$18,000 – $25,000 |
- Apartments near campus (higher cost due to Los Angeles location) |
|
UC San Diego |
- On-Campus: Apartments, Suites |
$15,000 – $20,000 |
- Ocean view housing available |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$14,000 – $18,000 |
- Cheaper compared to LA or Berkeley |
|
UC Davis |
- On-Campus: Dormitories, Apartments |
$14,000 – $18,000 |
- Family housing available |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$12,000 – $16,000 |
- Cheaper options due to Davis being a college town |
|
UC Irvine |
- On-Campus: Dorms, Apartments |
$14,000 – $19,000 |
- Located in Orange County |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$15,000 – $20,000 |
- Options available in nearby Irvine neighborhoods |
|
UC Santa Barbara |
- On-Campus: Residence Halls, Apartments |
$16,000 – $22,000 |
- Beachfront living options |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$17,000 – $23,000 |
- High demand for beachside apartments |
|
UC Riverside |
- On-Campus: Dormitories, Apartments |
$12,000 – $16,000 |
- Includes meal plans |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$10,000 – $14,000 |
- Affordable options compared to other UC campuses |
|
UC Santa Cruz |
- On-Campus: Colleges, Apartments |
$14,000 – $20,000 |
- Forest and ocean view housing |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$12,000 – $16,000 |
- Cheaper housing available in nearby neighborhoods |
|
UC Merced |
- On-Campus: Residence Halls, Apartments |
$12,000 – $16,000 |
- Modern facilities |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$10,000 – $14,000 |
- Cheaper options in Merced city |
|
UC San Francisco |
- On-Campus: Graduate/Professional Housing |
$18,000 – $25,000 |
- Housing exclusively for graduate/medical students |
|
|
- Off-Campus Housing |
$20,000 – $30,000 |
- Expensive due to San Francisco’s high cost of living |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Diverse Student Body |
- UC campuses attract students from over 140 countries, creating a multicultural environment. |
|
2. Academic Excellence |
- Access to world-class professors, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art facilities. |
|
3. Clubs and Organizations |
- Each campus has over 500+ student clubs, ranging from academic societies to arts, sports, cultural, and social activism groups. |
|
4. Housing and Dorm Life |
- On-campus dormitories and apartments foster a sense of community. |
|
5. Events and Festivals |
- Campuses host events like Spring Flings, Welcome Week, cultural fairs, hackathons, and art shows. |
|
6. Athletics and Fitness |
- UC campuses have competitive sports teams, often part of the NCAA Division I. |
|
7. Outdoor Activities |
- California’s natural beauty offers students opportunities for hiking, surfing, skiing, and biking. |
|
8. Career Development |
- Career services offer internship placements, resume workshops, career fairs, and connections with top companies like Google, Apple, and Tesla. |
|
9. Cultural and Social Life |
- Museums, theaters, and cultural centers are present on every campus. |
|
10. International Student Support |
- Offices for international students and scholars (ISSO) assist with visa guidance, workshops, and cultural adjustment. |
|
11. Mental Health and Wellness |
- UC campuses prioritize student well-being with counseling centers, mental health workshops, and peer support groups. |
|
12. Transportation |
- Many campuses offer free or discounted access to public transportation. |
Campus |
Unique Features of Student Life |
|---|---|
|
UC Berkeley |
- Known for its activist culture and diverse academic clubs. |
|
UCLA |
- Thriving film, theater, and arts scene in the heart of Los Angeles. |
|
UC San Diego |
- Beachside campus with a focus on surf culture and outdoor recreation. |
|
UC Santa Barbara |
- Beachfront campus with a laid-back, outdoor-focused student life. |
|
UC Davis |
- Known as the "Bicycle Capital" of the U.S., with students heavily relying on bikes. |
|
UC Irvine |
- Located in a safe, suburban area near Orange County beaches. |
|
UC Santa Cruz |
- Surrounded by redwood forests with a strong sense of environmental activism. |
|
UC Riverside |
- Affordable living options and a strong emphasis on community service. |
|
UC Merced |
- Smallest UC campus, fostering a close-knit community with modern facilities. |
|
UC San Francisco |
- Exclusively graduate-focused, with a tight-knit student life centered around health sciences and professional goals. |
The cost of living depends on the campus location and lifestyle choices. Below is a general estimate of annual expenses for students:
Expense Category |
Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
|
Housing (on-campus) |
$12,000 – $18,000 |
|
Housing (off-campus) |
$14,000 – $22,000 |
|
Food (with meal plans) |
$5,000 – $7,500 |
|
Transportation |
$1,000 – $2,000 (public transit, gas, etc.) |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,200 – $1,500 |
|
Health Insurance |
$2,500 – $3,000 (mandatory for international students) |
|
Entertainment & Personal |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
UC campuses, particularly UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, are located near major economic hubs like Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, and San Diego, giving students access to leading global companies.
The UC system has strong relationships with top employers, including Google, Apple, Facebook (Meta), Amazon, Tesla, and Microsoft. These companies frequently recruit UC graduates for internships and full-time roles.
Each UC campus has a dedicated career center to help students prepare for placements. These centers offer:
Career Fairs: Campuses host multiple career fairs each year, featuring hundreds of employers from different industries.
Resume and Interview Workshops: Career counselors help students improve resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview skills.
Job Portals: UC campuses have job portals where students can apply for internships and full-time positions directly.
Alumni Networking: Students can connect with successful alumni for career advice and referrals.
Internships are a key component of career preparation at UC campuses:
Students gain hands-on experience through internships at prestigious organizations in technology, healthcare, government, media, and more.
For example:
UC Berkeley: Strong connections with tech companies in Silicon Valley.
UCLA: Opportunities in entertainment, media, and healthcare industries in Los Angeles.
UC Davis: Internships in agriculture, environmental sciences, and sustainability.
UC San Diego: Research opportunities in biotechnology and oceanography.
UC graduates enjoy high placement rates due to the system’s reputation and the quality of education. While placement rates vary by campus and field, 85–95% of UC graduates find employment or enroll in graduate programs within six months of graduation.
Engineering and Technology Graduates: UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego engineering graduates often secure jobs at leading tech companies.
Business and Economics Graduates: UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and UCLA’s Anderson School of Management have excellent job placement rates in finance, consulting, and management roles.
Healthcare Graduates: UC San Francisco (UCSF) produces top professionals in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy, with most graduates securing placements in healthcare systems or research.
The starting salaries of UC graduates are highly competitive and vary depending on the field of study and campus. On average:
Engineering & Computer Science Graduates: $80,000 – $120,000/year.
Business & Economics Graduates: $60,000 – $100,000/year.
Healthcare & Medical Graduates: $70,000 – $120,000/year.
Arts & Humanities Graduates: $40,000 – $70,000/year.
UC graduates work for some of the most prestigious employers in the world. Top recruiters include:
Technology: Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook (Meta), Intel, Tesla.
Finance: Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young (EY).
Healthcare: Kaiser Permanente, Genentech, UCSF Medical Center, Pfizer.
Entertainment: Disney, Warner Bros., NBCUniversal (UCLA graduates are highly recruited in this sector).
Government & Nonprofit: NASA, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), United Nations, World Bank.
UC Berkeley: Known for strong placements in technology, engineering, business, and public policy. Proximity to Silicon Valley makes it a hub for tech jobs.
UCLA: Excellent for entertainment, media, healthcare, and business placements. Los Angeles is a hub for film, television, and startups.
UC San Diego: Top placements in biotechnology, computer science, and oceanography.
UC Davis: Strong focus on agriculture, veterinary science, and environmental sciences.
UC Irvine: Known for placements in technology, healthcare, and computer science.
UC Santa Barbara: Physics and materials science graduates secure jobs in research and high-tech industries.
The UC system boasts one of the largest and most active alumni networks globally, with over 2 million alumni. Alumni play a significant role in:
Providing mentorship and career guidance.
Offering referrals to current students for internships and full-time roles.
Facilitating networking events for students and professionals.
Graduate students and PhD candidates benefit from research collaborations with industry leaders and academic institutions worldwide.
Many PhD graduates secure faculty positions, research roles, or work in R&D for companies like Google Research, Genentech, and NASA.
UC campuses encourage entrepreneurship, with dedicated programs like UC Berkeley’s SkyDeck Accelerator and UCLA’s Startup UCLA.
Many UC graduates go on to found successful startups in fields like technology, healthcare, and sustainability.
UC Berkeley:
Acceptance Rate: ~12–15%
Highly competitive, especially for popular majors like Computer Science, Business, and Engineering.
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles):
Acceptance Rate: ~10–14%
One of the most selective UC campuses, especially for majors in Film, Performing Arts, Engineering, and Medicine.
UC San Diego (UCSD):
Acceptance Rate: ~23–30%
Competitive for STEM programs, including Biotechnology and Computer Science.
UC Irvine (UCI):
Acceptance Rate: ~21–30%
Strong in Computer Science, Engineering, and Healthcare-related programs.
UC Santa Barbara (UCSB):
Acceptance Rate: ~26–30%
Known for Physics, Environmental Sciences, and Marine Biology.
UC Davis:
Acceptance Rate: ~39–46%
Less selective compared to UCLA and UC Berkeley, with strong programs in Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, and Environmental Science.
UC Riverside (UCR):
Acceptance Rate: ~50–60%
Less competitive compared to other UC campuses, with strengths in Business, Environmental Science, and Social Sciences.
UC Santa Cruz (UCSC):
Acceptance Rate: ~47–51%
Known for strengths in Astrophysics, Space Science, and Game Design.
UC Merced:
Acceptance Rate: ~70–85%
The least selective UC campus, offering a close-knit community and opportunities for undergraduate research.
UC San Francisco (UCSF):
No undergraduate programs (exclusively for graduate-level health science programs like Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing).
UC Berkeley
Location: Berkeley, California (San Francisco Bay Area)
Nearby Cities: San Francisco (15 miles), Oakland (5 miles)
Highlights: Located near Silicon Valley, known for its proximity to tech companies and vibrant cultural diversity.
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles)
Location: Los Angeles, California (Westwood neighborhood)
Nearby Cities: Santa Monica (7 miles), Hollywood (9 miles)
Highlights: In the heart of Los Angeles, close to beaches, entertainment hubs, and industries like film, media, and healthcare.
UC San Diego (UCSD)
Location: La Jolla, San Diego, California
Nearby Cities: Downtown San Diego (14 miles), Tijuana, Mexico (20 miles)
Highlights: Situated near the Pacific Ocean, known for its stunning coastal scenery, biotech industry, and outdoor recreation.
UC Davis
Location: Davis, California (Northern California)
Nearby Cities: Sacramento (15 miles), San Francisco (72 miles)
Highlights: Known for its college-town vibe, agricultural research, and close proximity to California’s state capital.
UC Irvine (UCI)
Location: Irvine, California (Orange County)
Nearby Cities: Anaheim (13 miles), Los Angeles (40 miles)
Highlights: Located in a safe and suburban area near beaches and entertainment venues like Disneyland.
UC Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Location: Santa Barbara, California (Central Coast)
Nearby Cities: Los Angeles (100 miles), San Luis Obispo (90 miles)
Highlights: Beachfront campus with beautiful coastal views, popular for outdoor activities and surfing.
UC Riverside (UCR)
Location: Riverside, California (Inland Empire)
Nearby Cities: Los Angeles (55 miles), San Bernardino (10 miles)
Highlights: Affordable living, strong community focus, and located near major highways for easy access to Southern California attractions.
UC Santa Cruz (UCSC)
Location: Santa Cruz, California (Northern California, Central Coast)
Nearby Cities: San Jose (32 miles), San Francisco (75 miles)
Highlights: Nestled in a redwood forest with views of the Pacific Ocean, renowned for its relaxed vibe and sustainability efforts.
UC Merced
Location: Merced, California (Central Valley)
Nearby Cities: Fresno (60 miles), Yosemite National Park (80 miles)
Highlights: The newest UC campus, located near Yosemite, with a focus on sustainability and research.
UC San Francisco (UCSF)
Location: San Francisco, California
Nearby Cities: Oakland (10 miles), Berkeley (12 miles)
Highlights: Exclusively a graduate-level campus focusing on health sciences, located in one of the most dynamic cities in the U.S.
