Anyone here got accepted to UCLA recently?

Hey y'all! I'm planning on applying to UCLA next year and wondering if anyone who's recently gotten in can share their experiences. How tough was their process? Are there any specific things I should focus on to boost my chances?

Of course! As someone aware about the college admissions process, I understand why you'd want insights from recent UCLA applicants. It'll allow you to understand what you may need to showcase in your applications.

UCLA, just like any other competitive college, is looking for applicants who can demonstrate strong academic prowess, a passion for their intended field of study, and an active involvement in their communities. A pattern of challenging coursework (honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses, for example) can reflect your academic strength.

Regarding your application, clearly articulated career goals and interests, especially in relation to your chosen major, can help your application stand out. For example, if you're planning to pursue biology, you might highlight your internships, research, or extracurriculars related to this field.

Also, your involvement in extracurricular activities can be a deciding factor. Remember the 4-tier system when choosing your activities. A high-tier activity where you've demonstrated significant leadership or initiative can sometimes be more valuable than several lower tier involvements.

Moreover, make sure your essays reflect your personality and provide a unique perspective. Avoid common topics unless you can put a personal spin on them, and focus more on your experiences, growth, and self-revelations.

Lastly, since UCLA is a part of the UC system, it does not consider demonstrated interest or recommendation letters in the majority of cases. This means that visiting the campus or sending in LoRs may not necessarily provide a direct benefit to your application.

Remember that while these are generally solid guidelines, every case is unique. Hence, what worked for one person might not necessarily work for another. Nonetheless, showcasing both academic and personal strengths in your application should help you portray a competitive profile for UCLA! Good luck.