The University of California (UC) has compiled a set of resources and information for students working on their UC application. The guidance covers several aspects of the process, from selecting a major to understanding financial aid and learning about alumni outcomes.
For those seeking advice on the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs), the UC Santa Barbara admissions team has created YouTube videos that offer guidance relevant to all nine undergraduate campuses, as there is a single application used systemwide. In addition, two University of California admissions directors have answered common questions about how applications are evaluated across campuses.
Applicants interested in specific majors can consult a data dashboard provided by UC. This tool allows users to see how many first-year students apply to and are admitted at each campus by academic discipline, offering insight into applicant pools.
Transfer students have access to an online hub that consolidates resources and planning tools for those considering transferring to UC. This aims to streamline the transfer process by providing essential information in one place.
More than 77 percent of California applicants were offered admission for fall 2025 at one of UC’s nine campuses, indicating strong opportunities for state residents.
With over 300 majors available across its undergraduate campuses, UC offers an interactive tool designed to help students connect their interests with different fields of study. Students can also take a quiz that matches them with potential majors and associated career paths.
Financial aid is highlighted as a significant factor in making college affordable at UC. Nearly 70 percent of undergraduates receive gift aid that does not require repayment, and more than half of California undergraduates receive enough gift aid to cover all systemwide tuition and fees. Transfer students also benefit from robust financial support; many pay no tuition due to available aid programs.
According to university data, 67% of graduates enter the workforce without student debt. A degree from UC is linked with higher earnings and other long-term benefits.
Student stories are shared as part of the outreach effort. One alum said: “Receiving financial aid made me realize that going to college was totally doable.” Another graduate, Miguel Tamayo, explained how financial aid enabled him to pursue aerospace engineering at UC without taking on substantial loans. Alexis Acosta described her experience transferring from community college: “When Alexis Acosta was ready to transfer to UC from community college, she worried about how she would fit in and how she would pay for it all. It turned out there were a lot of resources to help.”
Alumni outcomes are emphasized through data showing that many graduates find careers in high-growth industries such as biotech, computing, engineering, finance, education, health care, and entertainment—sectors central to California’s economy.
Experiential learning opportunities distinguish a UC education. Undergraduates participate in hands-on research and fieldwork across all campuses. The university also promotes unique classes, clubs, and programs available throughout its system.
