Admissions criteria at University of the Pacific

Hey all, I've been looking into the University of the Pacific and their programs seems super appealing. Any of you know what sort of stats and extracurriculars they usually look for in their applicants? Like, is there a particular GPA, or specific activities they favor? Thanks in advance!

While the University of the Pacific (UOP) doesn't have a strictly defined minimum GPA for admission, most admitted students typically have a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. However, UOP uses a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they look beyond just GPAs and standardized test scores.

For standardized testing, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, UOP is test-optional, meaning you can submit SAT or ACT scores if you believe they accurately reflect your academic abilities, but you are not required to do so. If your test scores are strong compared to UOP's average scores, it could be beneficial to submit them.

As for extracurriculars, while UOP doesn't specify a preference for certain activities, they are looking for students who have shown a commitment to their communities, demonstrated leadership abilities, or excelled in their areas of interest. In line with the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, activities that show leadership qualities or local, state, or even national/international recognition can give your application a boost.

It's also worth emphasizing that UOP values intellectual curiosity and genuine passion. It's not so much about what you do, but how you do it and why you do it. Explaining your motivation and how your activities helped shaped you towards your career goals can provide a compelling narrative. If you held any leadership roles or pursued significant projects within your extracurricular activities, make sure to highlight these.

Additionally, UOP has a variety of unique and competitive programs, so if you're particularly interested in one, dedicating extracurricular activities to that could demonstrate a clear interest and commitment to that field. If you're interested in pharmacy, for example, anything relevant like volunteering in a medical setting, taking relevant classes, or leading a health awareness campaign at your school can help distinguish your application.

Remember to share your story holistically through your application and essays. This gives UOP the opportunity to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. Let them see your character, goals, and passion throughout your application. Good luck!