UC Berkeley: SAT Score Recommendations

Hi all! I'm planning to apply to UC Berkeley, and I'd like to know more about their recommended SAT score range. What are the average scores for admitted students? Are there any other factors (like GPA, extracurriculars, etc.) that play a big role in the admission process? Thanks in advance!

Hello! As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, UC Berkeley, along with all other University of California campuses, has gone test-blind, meaning they no longer consider SAT or ACT scores in their admissions process. Therefore, discussing average SAT score ranges for admitted students is no longer relevant for UC Berkeley applicants.

While you cannot rely on SAT scores as an important factor in your application to UC Berkeley, there are other components that will play a crucial role in your admission outcome. The most significant element is your academic performance in high school, which includes your GPA, course rigor (such as taking AP or IB classes), and class rank if your school calculates it. UC Berkeley places a strong emphasis on your academic performance and the rigor of the courses you've taken in high school.

In addition to your academics, extracurricular activities and achievements are also crucial in the admission process. UC Berkeley values students who are active in their communities and show a deep commitment to a few activities or areas of interest, rather than being involved in numerous activities at a superficial level. It's essential to showcase your leadership skills, initiative, and personal growth in your extracurriculars.

Writing excellent personal insight essays for the UC application is also very important, as it provides the admissions committee with information about your character, goals, motivations, and insights into your life experiences. In these essays, make sure to share your unique perspective, creativity, and voice to stand out among other applicants.

Moreover, UC Berkeley will consider other factors in a more comprehensive and contextual manner. These factors might include your location, socioeconomic background, family circumstances, and the opportunities that were available to you within your school and community. Overall, the admissions process focuses on a holistic evaluation of your application, meaning all of these components are considered together rather than individually, so it's crucial to present a strong overall application to increase your chances of being admitted to UC Berkeley.

Best of luck with your application!