UCLA, a cornerstone of academic distinction, is one of the most competitive schools to enter as a freshman applicant. Yet, unlike other prestigious universities, your odds of transferring are significantly higher, since UCLA’s transfer acceptance rate is relatively generous.

If you’re considering transferring to UCLA, read on for critical insights about the transfer acceptance rates, decision dates, deadlines, and more!

UCLA Transfer Acceptance Rate: Breakdown from 2020 to 2024

While UCLA remains one of the most competitive schools in the country, transfer applicants, especially from California community colleges, see significantly better odds than first-year hopefuls.

While freshman admissions hover around 8-9%, the transfer acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 19% and 25% in recent years.

Below is a year-by-year breakdown of UCLA’s transfer acceptance trends from 2020 to 2024

UCLA 2020–2021 Transfer Acceptance Rate

UCLA received 25,957 transfer applications in 2020 and admitted 6,271 students, resulting in a 24% acceptance rate. The College of Letters and Science had the highest admit rate at 29%, while more selective programs like Engineering and Nursing accepted just 11% and 5%, respectively.

Most admitted students came from California community colleges, which made up 93% of offers. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, UCLA continued to prioritise strong academic prep and major prerequisites.

UCLA 2021–2022 Transfer Acceptance Rate

In 2021, transfer applications jumped to 28,457, but admissions dropped to 5,435, an acceptance rate of 19%. The sharp decline likely reflects increased competition, especially across impacted majors.

Still, students transferring from California community colleges had a 21% admit rate, continuing UCLA’s focus on this applicant pool. Notably, 38% of admitted domestic students were first-generation college students, and 36% came from underrepresented backgrounds.

UCLA 2022–2023 Transfer Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for 2022 rebounded to 24%, with 5,961 students admitted from 24,930 applications. Median GPA for admitted transfers was a competitive 3.90. The College admitted 29% of applicants, while Engineering and TFT stayed selective at 11% and 3%.

Again, California community college students had the edge, with a 27% admit rate. Over 40% of domestic transfers were the first in their family to attend college.

UCLA 2023–2024 Transfer Acceptance Rate

In 2023, UCLA admitted 6,189 students out of 23,974 applicants, bringing the transfer admit rate to 26%, the highest in this five-year stretch. The College had a 32% admit rate, while Engineering accepted just 11%.

As in previous years, students from California community colleges dominated the admitted pool, making up 92% of all offers. Median GPA was 3.88, and 41% of domestic transfers were first-gen students.

UCLA 2024–2025 Transfer Acceptance Rate

UCLA’s 2024 transfer acceptance rate dropped slightly to 23%, with 6,177 students admitted from a pool of 27,177 applicants. The College admitted 28% of applicants, while specialized schools like Engineering and TFT held steady at 10% and 2.6%.

California community college students continued to lead with a 26% admit rate. The median GPA stayed strong at 3.90, and 78% of the entering class received financial aid.

UCLA Transfer Application Overview

To apply as a transfer student to UCLA, you must complete the University of California Application and meet specific academic and departmental requirements. The table below outlines the key components and eligibility criteria.

Category	Requirement	Details
Application Components	UC Application	Submit by November 30 via the University of California Application portal.
	Transcripts	Provide official college transcripts from all institutions and high school transcripts.
	Supplemental Materials	Required for certain majors (e.g., Art, Film, Music). Check department websites for portfolios, auditions, or other materials, typically due in December or January.
Academic Requirements	Unit Completion	Complete 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of transferable coursework by the end of the spring term prior to enrollment.
	GPA Requirements	Minimum Requirement: UCLA requires a 3.2 GPA in transferable coursework, completed by the end of the spring term before transfer. Competitive Range: For students enrolled last year, the mid-50% GPA range was 3.8–4.0.
	English/Writing Courses	Complete two courses in English composition or critical thinking and writing by the UCLA start date.
	Math Course	Complete one course with a prerequisite of intermediate algebra or higher (e.g., college algebra, precalculus).
	Additional Courses	Complete four transferable courses in at least two of the following areas:- Arts and Humanities- Social and Behavioral Sciences- Physical and Biological Sciences

Next Steps

Verify Deadlines: Check the UCLA Undergraduate Admission website for application and supplemental material deadlines.
Explore the Transfer Directory: Review UCLA’s online transfer directory for major-specific requirements and course articulation.
Check Transferability: Use ASSIST.org to confirm that your courses meet UCLA’s transfer standards.

Fulfilling these requirements and submitting a complete application will strengthen your candidacy for transfer admission to UCLA.

UCLA Transfer Supplemental Essay Requirements

UCLA transfer applicants must submit supplemental essays to demonstrate their preparation and fit for their chosen major. Below is a clear guide to the required essays:

Mandatory Essay

All applicants must respond to the following prompt:

Prompt: “Please describe how you have prepared for your intended major, including your readiness to succeed in your upper-division courses once you enroll at the university.”
Purpose: Showcases your academic preparation and readiness for advanced coursework.

Additional Essays

Applicants must choose three of the following seven prompts to respond to:

Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?

UCLA Transfer Application Deadlines

Meeting deadlines is critical for a successful UCLA transfer application. The table below outlines key dates and requirements for submitting materials, along with important considerations to strengthen your application.

Requirement	Deadline	Details
UC Application Submission	November 30	The University of California Application portal opens on August 1 and must be submitted by November 30. Include all required essays and personal information.
Fall Semester Grades	January 31	Submit official transcripts with Fall semester grades from your current institution. Ensure grades reflect transferable coursework listed on ASSIST.org.
FAFSA Submission	March 2	Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 2 to be considered for financial aid. California residents should also submit the California Dream Act Application, if applicable.
Supplemental Materials	December–January	Some majors (e.g., Art, Film, Music) require portfolios or auditions, typically due in December or January. Check your department’s website for specific deadlines.
Transfer Decision Release	Late April	UCLA transfer decision date is not set in stone, but usually, you can expect a decision in Late April. Monitor your application portal and email for updates.

Who’s Not Eligible to Transfer?

Before applying to UCLA as a transfer student, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. UCLA restricts certain applicants from transfer admission. You are not eligible if you:

Hold a Bachelor’s Degree: A completed bachelor’s degree disqualifies you from undergraduate transfer.
Attend a Non-Accredited Institution: Coursework from non-regionally accredited schools is not accepted.
Enrolled in Vocational/Technical Programs: Credits from vocational or technical training are typically non-transferable.
Take Only Extension Courses: UCLA Extension or continuing education credits don’t qualify unless part of a degree program.

Note: UCLA requires transfer applicants to have junior-level standing (60 semester or 90 quarter units) but allows those with more than two years of college to apply. However, you must complete at least two years of full-time enrollment at UCLA to earn your degree, regardless of prior credits.

Expert Support for Your UCLA Transfer Application

With a transfer acceptance rate of approximately 20-25% and a mid-50% GPA range of 3.8–4.0, UCLA’s transfer process is highly selective.

Beyond a strong academic record, applicants need compelling essays, impactful recommendation letters, and alignment with major-specific requirements. Navigating these demands without expert guidance can jeopardize even the strongest applications.

Transfer Goat provides tailored support to maximize your chances. Our services include:

Extracurricular Enhancement: Develop activities that highlight your unique interests.
Unlimited Essay Revisions: Perfect your essays to reflect UCLA’s academic and community values.
Personalized Strategy Sessions: Receive guidance from consultants who’ve transferred to elite universities.
Comprehensive Application Support: From course selection to recommendation letters, we guide you through every step until submission.

Book a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the admission rate for transfer students at UCLA?

The transfer rate for UCLA in Fall 2024 was 23% with 6,177 admitted from 27,177 applicants were offered admission. California community college students have a slightly higher transfer acceptance rate (~27%).

What is UCLA’s transfer acceptance rate by major?

The University of California, Los Angeles, transfer acceptance rate per major varies widely. For 2023-2024, the College of Letters and Science had a 32% acceptance rate, while competitive programs like Engineering (10%) and Theater, Film, and Television (2.6%) were more selective.

When are UCLA transfer decisions released?

UCLA transfer acceptance date is not firmly set, but the decisions are typically released in late April. Check your application portal for updates.

How many transfer students does UCLA accept?

UCLA accepts 5,000–6,000 transfer students annually, with 6,177 admitted for fall 2024.

When is the UCLA transfer application due?

The UC Application is due by November 30, with the portal opening August 1.

What GPA do you need to transfer to UCLA?

A minimum 3.2 GPA in transferable courses is required, but admitted students typically have a 3.8–4.0 mid-50% range.

Are SAT or ACT scores required for UCLA transfer applicants?

No, SAT/ACT scores are not required for 2025–2026 transfer applicants. UCLA evaluates transferable coursework (minimum 3.2 GPA, competitive 3.8–4.0) for its 22.3% transfer acceptance rate.

Can I transfer to UCLA as a sophomore or junior?

Yes, UCLA accepts sophomore and junior transfers with 60 semester (90 quarter) units. California community college students (92% of admits) are prioritized.

What financial aid is available for UCLA transfer students?

Submit FAFSA/CSS Profile by March 2. California residents (AGI ≤ $80,000) may qualify for the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan, covering tuition/fees.