Choosing the right university is one of the most important decisions for international students planning to study abroad in the USA. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is among the top universities in the country, offering world-class education, research opportunities, and a vibrant student life.
For students looking to study in USA, UCLA provides an outstanding academic experience with strong career prospects. This guide will cover everything about UCLA, including its acceptance rate, global rankings, tuition fees, and popular courses.
Overview of UCLA
Founded in 1919, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the top public universities in the USA. It has a diverse student body, excellent faculty, and cutting-edge research facilities. The university is located in Los Angeles, California, providing students with access to a thriving cultural and professional environment.
Key Facts About UCLA
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Established | 1919 |
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Total Enrollment | 46,000+ students |
| International Students | 12,000+ from 100+ countries |
| Campus Size | 419 acres |
| Popular Fields of Study | Engineering, Business, Medicine, Film Studies, Social Sciences |
| QS World University Ranking (2024) | #29 |
UCLA is known for its academic excellence, innovation, and student diversity, making it a top choice for international students pursuing higher education in the USA.
UCLA Acceptance Rate
Admission to UCLA is highly competitive, especially for international students. The acceptance rate has remained below 10% in recent years due to a large number of applications and limited spots.
UCLA Acceptance Rate Over the Years
| Year | Applications Received | Students Accepted | Acceptance Rate |
| 2021 | 139,500 | 15,028 | 10.8% |
| 2022 | 149,815 | 12,844 | 8.6% |
| 2023 | 145,882 | 12,510 | 8.5% |
With an acceptance rate below 10%, international students must have strong academic records, extracurricular achievements, and well-written application essays to secure admission.
Admission Requirements for International Students
| Requirement | Details |
| GPA Requirement | 3.9/4.0 or higher |
| SAT/ACT Score (Optional but Recommended) | SAT: 1450+ or ACT: 32+ |
| TOEFL Score | 100+ |
| IELTS Score | 7.5+ |
| Letters of Recommendation | At least 2 from academic/professional sources |
| Personal Statement | Strong essay explaining goals and motivation |
| Extracurricular Activities | Leadership, research, volunteering, or work experience |
UCLA follows a holistic admission process, meaning students should focus on both academics and extracurriculars to improve their chances.
UCLA Global Rankings
The University of California, Los Angeles consistently ranks among the top universities globally for its academic reputation, faculty expertise, and research output.
UCLA Global Rankings (2024)
| Ranking System | Rank |
| QS World University Rankings | #29 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | #18 |
| U.S. News & World Report (USA) | #15 |
UCLA is particularly well-regarded for Engineering, Business, Medicine, and Film Studies, attracting students from around the world.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs at UCLA
UCLA is a public university, but tuition fees for out-of-state and international students are higher than those for California residents.
UCLA Tuition Fees (2024-25)
| Program Type | Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
| Undergraduate Programs | $46,326 |
| Graduate Programs | $28,000 – $55,000 |
| MBA (Anderson School of Management) | $73,000 |
The total cost of studying at UCLA includes not just tuition but also accommodation, food, and other expenses.
Estimated Cost of Living in Los Angeles for UCLA Students
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) | Annual Cost (USD) |
| Accommodation (On-campus) | $1,500 – $3,000 | $18,000 – $36,000 |
| Accommodation (Off-campus) | $1,200 – $2,500 | $14,400 – $30,000 |
| Food & Groceries | $400 – $700 | $4,800 – $8,400 |
| Transportation | $120 – $200 | $1,440 – $2,400 |
| Health Insurance | – | $2,800 |
| Books & Supplies | – | $1,200 |
Students can save money by sharing apartments, using student discounts, and applying for scholarships.
Popular Courses at UCLA
UCLA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across different fields.
Top Undergraduate Courses
| Program | Duration |
| Computer Science | 4 years |
| Mechanical Engineering | 4 years |
| Business Administration | 4 years |
| Psychology | 4 years |
| Film and Television Studies | 4 years |
Top Graduate Programs
| Program | Duration |
| MBA (Anderson School of Management) | 2 years |
| Master’s in Data Science | 2 years |
| Master’s in Public Health | 2 years |
| Master’s in Law (LLM) | 1 year |
| Master’s in Environmental Science | 2 years |
Each course provides practical learning, world-class faculty, and strong job prospects for students.
How to Apply to UCLA?
International students must apply through the University of California (UC) Application Portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Select the Program – Check UCLA’s official website for courses.
- Meet Eligibility Criteria – Ensure you meet the required GPA, test scores, and prerequisites.
- Prepare Application Documents – Include transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays.
- Submit Application by Deadline – UC application deadlines are usually in November.
- Complete Additional Requirements – Some programs may require interviews or portfolios.
- Wait for the Admission Decision – Results are typically released in March-April.
Conclusion
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the best universities for international students planning to study abroad in the USA. It offers top-ranked programs, research opportunities, and access to major industries. However, due to its low acceptance rate and high tuition fees, students need to prepare well to secure admission and manage finances.
For those looking to study in the USA, UCLA provides a world-class education in a dynamic and diverse environment. With the right preparation, international students can achieve their dream of studying at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.