Freshman Selection Criteria at UC Irvine
In recent years, the number of freshman applicants to UCI has exceeded the number of spaces available. Since the campus cannot admit all eligible applicants, it must use standards that are more demanding than the minimum UC requirements to select students. These standards, which the University calls selection criteria, are used to identify applicants who have demonstrated the highest academic achievement and who have a variety of other qualities that can contribute to the strength and diversity of the campus community.

In the case that UCI is unable to accommodate all qualified applicants in their first-choice major, those students who indicate a valid alternate major may be offered admission in that major. Students who wish to change their major after enrolling at UCI must submit a change of major petition.

Campus Criteria
UCI seeks to enroll students who have a demonstrated record of academic excellence. All applicants are assessed for evidence of academic achievement and potential. Although the number and type of courses completed, and grades and test scores earned remain important elements in the selection process, UCI recognizes that merit is demonstrated in many forms and can be measured in different ways.

The following criteria are used to select the freshman class

    -The number of college preparatory courses completed and the level of achievement in those courses including: courses completed beyond the minimum subject requirements; University-approved honors courses, e.g., College Board Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate Higher Level courses, and transferable college courses completed; the quality of the senior-year program, as measured by the type and number of academic courses in progress or planned.

    -Academic grade point average (GPA). UC Irvine uses a maximum of eight honors grade points in determining the UC GPA.

    -Scores on the SAT I (or ACT) and three SAT II Subject Tests.

    -Evidence of intellectual or creative achievement or substantial public service.

    -Special talents, achievements, and awards in a particular field, such as in the visual and performing arts or in athletic endeavors; special interests, such as intensive study and exploration of other cultures; experiences that demonstrate unusual promise for leadership, such as significant community service or significant participation in student government; or other significant experiences or achievements that demonstrate the applicant's promise for contributing to the intellectual vitality of a campus.

    -Academic accomplishments in light of the applicant's life experiences and special     circumstances.

Transfer Admission to UC Irvine
The majority of students will be selected on the basis of academic performance, as assessed by review of the following: GPA, number of UC-transferable units completed, and depth of preparation for the major.

Highest priority for admission is given to California resident junior level applicants from California community colleges. Preference will also be given to community college students who have participated in academically selective honors courses or programs. Junior transfer students from four-year colleges, including other UC campuses, and lower division transfer students may be considered as space permits.

Some students will be selected on the basis of academic and personal achievement, potential and experience, as assessed through a comprehensive review of all information provided on the application, including academic performance as described above plus the following: an exceptionally challenging curriculum; outstanding accomplishments relevant to academic aims; hardships or unusual circumstances the applicant has faced, and the ways in which the applicant has responded to these challenges; a strong, thoughtful match between UCI's programs and the student's academic and career objectives, preparation, talents and skills; and potential contributions to the campus.

Fall term applicants must complete required English composition and mathematics courses by the end of the spring term preceding enrollment at UCI. Winter-term applicants must complete these courses by the end of the preceding summer term.

For more information please visit www.admissions.uci.edu