UCI Acceptance Rate

The University of California, Irvine (UCI), located in Irvine, California, is a highly selective public research university within the prestigious UC system. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), UCI reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 21.0%, reflecting its competitive admissions process. This selectivity is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with tens of thousands of students vying for limited spots each year, as well as increasing interest from both in-state and out-of-state applicants. UCI maintains transparency in its admissions data, often publishing detailed statistics through its official website and the University of California Information Center, which provides valuable insights into enrollment trends and demographics.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 21.0% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 121,000 applicants and around 25,400 admitted students, marking a slight decrease from the previous year’s rate of 25.7%.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Data unavailable for UCI, as the UC system does not offer Early Action or Early Decision options. Admissions are based on a single application cycle with decisions released in spring.
• International Student Rate: Estimated at 16.0% based on historical trends, as international applicants face additional competition due to limited spots and stringent academic requirements. Specific data for the Class of 2028 is not yet published.

Over the past few years, UCI’s acceptance rate has trended downward, reflecting heightened competitiveness as more students apply to the UC system for its academic reputation and affordability for California residents. Unlike institutions with Early Decision options, UCI’s single-cycle admissions process does not provide an advantage for early applicants, leveling the playing field. International student admissions remain particularly competitive due to capped enrollment quotas. Compared to peer institutions like UC San Diego (acceptance rate around 24%) and UC Santa Barbara (around 26%), UCI’s selectivity is on par, though it remains less competitive than top-tier UC campuses like UCLA or UC Berkeley, where rates dip below 15%. As application numbers continue to rise, prospective students are encouraged to focus on strong academic profiles and compelling personal statements to stand out in UCI’s holistic review process.