The University of California, Riverside (UCR), located in Riverside, California, is a public research university known for its diverse student body and competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), UCR reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 68.1%, reflecting a moderately selective process. This rate is influenced by factors such as a growing applicant pool, increased interest in UC system schools, and the university's commitment to accessibility for California residents. UCR publishes transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, providing detailed insights into applicant demographics and admission outcomes.
Over the past few years, UCR's acceptance rate has trended downward slightly, reflecting increased competitiveness as more students apply to UC schools for their strong academic programs and in-state affordability. Compared to peer institutions like UC Santa Cruz or UC Merced, UCR maintains a similar level of selectivity, though it is less competitive than top-tier UC campuses like UCLA or UC Berkeley. The university's focus on holistic admissions, including factors like personal statements and extracurriculars, continues to shape its applicant pool. For the most accurate and updated statistics, prospective students are encouraged to visit the official UCR admissions website at admissions.ucr.edu or review the Common Data Set for historical trends.
