The University of California (UC) system is one of the most prestigious and accessible public university networks in the country. With nine undergraduate campuses across California, the UC system serves over 280,000 students and consistently ranks among the top institutions worldwide for research, innovation, and academic excellence.
Whether you’re looking to dive into STEM, explore the arts, or combine both in a flexible major, the UCs offer something for nearly everyone. In this guide, we’ll break down what makes the UC system so strong, highlight the campuses, and explore key facts about size, acceptance rates, academic calendars, and student life.
What Makes the UC System Unique?
Founded with a mission to provide high-quality education to California residents, the University of California system emphasizes academic rigor, public service, and groundbreaking research. UC campuses are known for:
- Top-ranked academic programs and faculty
- A single application for all nine undergraduate campuses
- A holistic review process for admissions
- Competitive costs for in-state students
- Access to vibrant communities across California
The UC system is also a global research leader, producing Nobel laureates, scientific breakthroughs, and innovative start-ups. For students, this translates into opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and career connections.
Get to Know the UC Campuses
Each of the undergraduate campuses in the University of California system offers a distinct academic experience, vibrant community, and unique strengths. From coastal campuses to inland research hubs, this overview will help you understand what sets each school apart and where you might thrive.
1. UC Berkeley
- Location: San Francisco Bay Area
- Known for: Political science, engineering, computer science
- Campus culture: Progressive, intellectually intense
- Size: ~32,000 undergraduates
- Fun fact: The first UC campus, founded in 1868
2. UC Davis
- Location: Northern California
- Known for: Agricultural sciences, veterinary medicine, sustainability
- Campus culture: Bike-friendly, inclusive
- Size: ~31,000 undergraduates
3. UC Irvine (UCI)
- Location: Orange County
- Known for: Computer science, business, biological sciences
- Campus culture: Innovative, suburban, research-focused
- Size: ~30,000 undergraduates
4. UCLA
- Location: Los Angeles
- Known for: Film & television, life sciences, psychology
- Campus culture: Spirited, competitive, fast-paced
- Size: ~32,000 undergraduates
- Sports: NCAA Division I, Pac-12 athletics
5. UC Merced
- Location: Central California
- Known for: Environmental engineering, sustainability, biological sciences
- Campus culture: Small, growing, innovative
- Size: ~9,000 undergraduates
- Note: The newest UC campus, opened in 2005, and the most accessible in terms of acceptance rate
6. UC Riverside (UCR)
- Location: Inland Southern California
- Known for: Entomology, creative writing, public policy
- Campus culture: Diverse, community-oriented
- Size: ~26,000 undergraduates
- Note: Increasing in selectivity with rising application numbers
7. UC San Diego (UCSD)
- Location: La Jolla, San Diego
- Known for: Biology, oceanography, engineering
- Campus culture: Research-driven, laid-back
- Size: ~33,000 undergraduates
- Note: Organized into seven unique residential colleges
8. UC Santa Barbara (UCSB)
- Location: Coastal Southern California
- Known for: Environmental science, creative studies, economics
- Campus culture: Collaborative, beachside vibe
- Size: ~23,000 undergraduates
9. UC Santa Cruz (UCSC)
- Location: Central Coast of California
- Known for: Computer science, psychology, business/managerial economics
- Campus culture: Laid-back, open-minded, progressive
- Size: ~18,000 undergraduates
UC acceptance rates vary by campus, major, and applicant pool. While the average UC admission rate hovers around 20–25%, top campuses and selective majors are far more competitive.
- UCLA: ~9–11% acceptance rate
- UC Berkeley: ~11–14%
- UC San Diego: ~24%
- UC Irvine & UC Santa Barbara: ~26–29%
- UC Riverside: ~65%
- UC Merced: ~87%
- UC Santa Cruz: ~65%
Good to note: Highly sought-after majors like engineering, business, and computer science may admit fewer than 10% of applicants even at mid-selectivity campuses.
The UC Academic Calendars: Quarter vs. Semester
The UC system uses two academic calendar models. Understanding the difference can help you determine which pace works best for you.
- Quarter system: Fast-paced, 10-week terms
- Used at: UCLA, UCSD, UCSB, UCI, UCR, UCSC
- Used at: UCLA, UCSD, UCSB, UCI, UCR, UCSC
- Semester system: Longer, 15-week terms
- Used at: UC Berkeley and UC Merced
Students in the quarter system experience three terms per academic year, which can allow for more courses but also requires strong time management skills.
What’s Campus Life Like at the UCs?
Each UC campus offers a unique community experience shaped by geography, student interests, and traditions. From coastal sunsets to bustling cities to rural college towns, you’ll find a wide range of environments to suit your style.
- Urban campuses: UCLA and UC Berkeley offer access to big-city opportunities
- Beachside campuses: UCSB and UCSD offer ocean views and chill vibes
- College-town feel: UC Davis and UC Santa Cruz have close-knit communities
Across the board, you’ll find clubs, student orgs, intramural sports, research labs, cultural centers, and strong peer support. Many campuses also compete in NCAA Division I athletics, offering school spirit and entertainment beyond the classroom.
Final Takeaways
The University of California system offers something for everyone. With nine undergraduate campuses to choose from and one application to apply to all, students have a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of options within one system.
Start by identifying what matters most to you — location, size, academic focus, or campus culture — and build your college list around those values. And remember, no matter which UC you choose, you’ll be part of a world-class educational experience.