Good UC GPA?

Hello everyone! I'm planning on applying to UC schools and I'm wondering what would be considered a good GPA for these schools. Would a 4.0 weighted be competitive, or should I be aiming higher? Thanks in advance!

Hello! A good GPA is definitely an important factor when applying to UC schools. However, it's essential to understand that each UC campus has its unique set of criteria and varying levels of selectivity.

A 4.0 weighted GPA is a solid starting point, but certain UC campuses are more competitive and might require a higher GPA. For example, UC Berkeley and UCLA, which are the most selective UCs, have average weighted GPAs of around 4.18 and 4.18, respectively. On the other hand, schools like UC Riverside and UC Merced have average GPAs that are lower, approximately 3.8 and 3.75.

It's also essential to remember that the UCs use their specific UC GPA formula, which only takes grades earned in the 10th and 11th-grade a-g courses into account, plus a maximum of 8 extra-grade points for honors/AP courses. So, make sure to calculate your GPA using the UC formula to get a more precise idea of your standing.

Additionally, UC schools practice holistic admissions, meaning they consider all aspects of your application, including GPA, coursework rigor, extracurricular activities, application essays, and more. Striving to improve your GPA is always a great goal, but don't forget to present a well-rounded application that showcases your unique strengths and interests.

In summary, a 4.0 weighted GPA can be competitive for some UC schools but may be considered on the lower end for others. Make sure to calculate your UC GPA, research the average GPAs for your target UC campuses, and continue to strengthen other components of your application. Good luck!