What is the acceptance rate for UCSD in 2025?

UC San Diego Acceptance Rate 2025: How Competitive Is It?

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) continues to be one of the most popular and competitive universities in the UC system. With its strong academic reputation, cutting-edge research, and prime location in La Jolla, UCSD attracts tens of thousands of applicants each year. So, how hard is it to get in for 2025?

UCSD Acceptance Rate for 2025

For the Fall 2025 admissions cycle, UC San Diego reported an acceptance rate of approximately 24.7% [1](https://academicful.com/ucsd-acceptance-rate/). The university received over 130,000 applications and admitted around 32,000 students. This places UCSD among the more selective public universities in the United States.

Acceptance Rates by Major

UCSD's acceptance rate varies significantly by major and department. Here are some estimated acceptance rates by faculty:

• Health Sciences: ~2%
• Biological Sciences: ~17%
• Engineering: ~20%
• Data Science: ~15%
• Social Sciences: ~37%
• Arts and Humanities: ~5%

As you can see, programs in health and engineering are particularly competitive, while social sciences and humanities tend to have higher acceptance rates.

In-State vs. Out-of-State Applicants

As a public university, UCSD gives priority to California residents. In-state applicants generally have a higher chance of admission compared to out-of-state and international students. The acceptance rate for international students is estimated to be around 15% [1](https://academicful.com/ucsd-acceptance-rate/).

What Makes a Competitive Applicant?

Successful applicants to UCSD typically have:

• Weighted GPA: 4.10–4.28
• Strong academic rigor: AP, IB, or honors courses
• Compelling personal insight responses
• Leadership and extracurricular involvement

Conclusion

With an acceptance rate of 24.7% in 2025, UC San Diego remains a competitive choice for students seeking a top-tier education in a vibrant coastal setting. While admission is challenging, a strong academic record, thoughtful application, and clear passion for your field can help you stand out. Whether you're aiming for engineering, biology, or the arts, UCSD offers a world-class education and a dynamic campus experience.

Stay tuned for more insights into UCSD and other top universities across the country.